The principles are based on and informed by scientific research in the fields of recreation ecology and human dimensions of natural resources. These principles were established by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, and built on work by the US Forest Service, National Park Service, and Bureau of Land Management in the mid 1980s.

Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.

Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.

Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.

Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.

Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.

Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.

Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors,, and exposes them to predators and other dangers.

Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.

Only use down and dead wood from the ground that can be broken by hand.

Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.

Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.

Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the environment.

Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.Preserve the past: examine, photograph, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts.To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap.Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Otherwise, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Utilize toilet facilities whenever possible.Pack out all trash, leftover food and litter. Inspect your campsite, food preparation areas, and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails.Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent. Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy.Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.

Durable surfaces include maintained trails and designated campsites, rock, gravel, sand, dry grasses or snow.Use a map and compass or GPS to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging.Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups. Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you'll visit.They can be applied anywhere, at any time, while taking part in recreational activities.

Following the Leave No Trace Seven Principles, summarized below, can help us minimize those impacts. As we spend time outdoors, in the natural world and in wilderness, it’s important to be conscious of the effects our actions may have on plants, animals, other people, and even entire ecosystems. Reference cards explain the Leave No Trace Seven PrinciplesĮach of us plays a vital role in protecting our national parks.

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