By More Than Just Parks

7 LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES EXPLAINED SIMPLY ENOUGH FOR KIDS

OUTDOOR ETHICS

plan ahead and prepare

1

Know the risks and rules of the park. *Prepare for dangerous weather *Avoid busy times *Travel in small (2-6 people) groups *Use map/compass, not cairns or paints

TRAVEL/CAMP ON DURABLE SURFACES

2

A durable surface is rock, gravel, sand, snow, or dry grass. Avoid sensitive vegetation areas. Don't go off the trail, even when muddy. Walk single file if necessary. Camp at least 200 feet away from any body of water, even a stream.

DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY

3

Carry in, carry out all trash, even candy wrappers and nut shells.  Dispose of human waste in catholes 6-8" deep and 200 feet from water or carry waste out. Pet waste should be bagged and brought with you. 

LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND

4

Do not take shells, rocks, flowers, planets, or artifacts. Do not touch historic places or sites. Never dig or move pieces of nature around for comfort, like moving a tree trunk to sit on. Even if you take something and return it, the piece cannot be put back in nature.

https://morethanjustparks.com/leave-no-trace-principles/

MINIMIZE CAMPFIRE IMPACTS

5

Use established rings, pans, or mound fires where allowed, or opt for  a camping stove and lantern. Build fires using only downed sticks nearby. Burn the fire to ashes, ensure the fire is out, and scatter ashes.

RESPECT WILDLIFE

6

Enjoy wildlife from a distance. No selfies or yelling to get their attention. Do not feed animals, even if they look hungry. Use bear-proof containers for all food and personal items - even toothpaste. Leave pets at home if you can't keep them 100% under control.

BE CONSIDERATEOF OTHERS

7

Respect the experience of other people on the trail. Let nature's sounds prevail. No speakers or loud talking. Make room for others on the trail and stay away from other hikers or campers to let them enjoy the experience their own way.

"I HAVE A QUESTION..."

Great! Let's keep the conversation going. The Leave No Trace Principles aren't laws, but guidelines. Each park, forest, or wilderness area might have its own rules.  We have some of the FAQs and examples in the link below.