As seasoned backpackers, we know the importance of treading lightly on the land we love. Our wildernesses are pristine havens, where the beauty of nature stands untouched. For those just starting out on their backpacking journey, it’s crucial to understand and embrace the principles of Leave No Trace (LNT). These principles ensure that we minimize our impact on the environment, preserving its beauty for generations to come.
Here are 7 tips to help you leave nature as you found it:
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
Before you hit the trail, take the time to plan your trip thoroughly. Research the area you’re visiting, understand its regulations, and anticipate the weather conditions. Make sure you have the necessary gear and skills for your adventure. Being prepared not only enhances your safety but also helps you minimize your impact on the environment by avoiding unnecessary situations.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
When you’re out in the wilderness, stick to established trails and camp in designated areas whenever possible. By confining our impact to these durable or already disturbed surfaces, we avoid adding more disruption to the delicate ecosystems we visit. Avoid trampling vegetation and sensitive habitats if you do have to go off trail for any reason. If you must venture off-trail, try to step on durable surfaces like rocks, gravel, or use small paths carved out by animals.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
Pack it in, pack it out. This golden rule of outdoor ethics cannot be emphasized enough. Whatever you bring into the wilderness, take it back with you. This includes food scraps, wrappers, and toilet paper. Human waste should be buried at least 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water sources, campsites, and trails. Use biodegradable soap sparingly and well away from water sources.
4. Leave What You Find
Resist the temptation to take home souvenirs from the wilderness. Rocks, plants, and artifacts all have a place in their natural environment. Leave them for others to enjoy. Even something as seemingly harmless as moving a rock or building a small cairn can disrupt the natural balance of an area.
5. Minimize Campfire Impact
While a crackling campfire is an iconic part of the outdoor experience, it’s essential to use it responsibly. Whenever possible, use a lightweight camp stove for cooking instead of building large fires. If you do build a fire, use established fire rings and only burn small pieces of wood that can be easily broken by hand. Use wood found on the ground, do not cut down trees. Lastly, ensure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving your campsite.
6. Respect Wildlife
That bear might look really cute, but he’s actually a very dangerous, wild animal that should be respected and observed from a safe distance. Never approach or feed wild animals, as this can disrupt their natural behaviours and even endanger both them and you. Every year, hundreds of bears are destroyed by conservation authorities because they have become too used to human food and now pose a safety concern to human populations. You can help prevent this by securing your food and trash to prevent attracting wildlife to your campsite. Remember, we are visitors in their home and should behave like respectful guests.
7. Be Considerate of Others
Finally, remember that you’re not alone in the wilderness. Respect other hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts you encounter along the way. Keep noise levels down, yield to other trail users, and maintain a friendly and courteous attitude. We’re all here to enjoy the great outdoors, so let’s make it an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Embracing the principles of Leave No Trace ensures that our wilderness areas remain pristine and untouched for future generations of backpackers to enjoy. By following these guidelines, we not only protect the environment but also cultivate a deeper respect and appreciation for the natural world around us. So, as you embark on your backpacking adventures, remember to “leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but memories.” Happy trails!
