Leave No Trace: Backcountry Ethics

Utah's deserts and mountains may look rugged enough, but they contain diverse and fragile ecosystems. In some places, abuse of the plant-life or the landscape can create scars that last for decades. Wherever you are, remember that others were probably there first, and more will come after. Be grateful for those who left the backcountry in a wild and pristine state, and allow those who follow to have the same experience you did.

Even the most well-intentioned group of people can negatively affect a natural ecosystem. Leave No Trace is a set of principles for outdoor recreationists who aim to minimize their impact on the natural environment. In the early 1980's, the National Forest Service teamed up with the Boy Scouts of America and the National Outdoor Leadership School to introduce a formal outline of the ethics of outdoor recreation. The following six principles form the backbone of Leave No Trace. Also listed are a few examples of each. As with any code of ethics it's up to us as individuals to figure out how to best follow the principles and responsibly use the land.

Plan and prepare

Always prepare for extreme weather and hazards.
Repackage food supplies in order to minimize waste materials.
Visit the wilderness in small groups. Break large parties into groups of six or less.

Travel and camp on durable surfaces

Good campsites are found, not made. Do not alter the landscape or plant life to accommodate your site.
Durable surfaces include pre-established trails and campsites, rock, sand, dry grass, and snow.
Walk in the middle of trails, even when wet or muddy.

Leave what you find

If you pack it in, pack it out. Always double-check campsites and other areas for trash.
When washing use small amounts of biodegradable soap, at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.
Bury human waste in cat holes 6-8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.

Minimize campfire impacts

Campfires leave marks on the backcountry that last for decades. Whenever possible, use a lightweight stove instead.
Where fires are legal, use pre-existing fire rings rather than constructing a new one.
Keep campfires small. Burn all wood and coals to ash, then scatter the cooled ashes.

Respect wildlife

Observe wildlife from a distance.
Never feed wildlife. Obtaining food from humans alters animals' natural behavior and damages their health.
Store all food in secure containers. Hang food where bears are prevalent.

Be considerate of other visitors

Camp and take breaks away from trails and other people.
Yield to other trail users.
Move to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack animals on the trail.