Incorporate these 8 Leave No Trace principles into your next visit to a national park.

With social media attracting more visitors to US national parks, these beautiful areas are experiencing increased pressure, leading to record attendance and crowded conditions that push people further into the wilderness.

To address this, the 'Leave No Trace' (LNT) philosophy, developed by the US Forest Service and the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), offers crucial guidance for reducing environmental impact. This framework now includes guidelines for responsible social media usage, assisting individuals in making mindful choices throughout their outdoor adventures—from planning and hiking to camping and interacting with wildlife.

Here’s how you can implement the Leave No Trace principles during your next outdoor expedition.

1. Prepare and plan ahead

Thoughtful planning and preparation can lessen visitors’ impact on nature. Researching designated and low-impact campsites and trails will guide you on a minimal-impact journey from the start. Preparing your food and cooking needs (like using proper camp stoves and choosing minimally packaged foods) will minimize waste and reduce the need for firewood. Additionally, crafting a safe trip itinerary suited to your group's skills and being ready for various weather conditions can decrease the chances of needing a resource-intensive rescue if things go awry.

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2. Camp and travel on resilient surfaces

While the adage “Take only pictures, leave only footprints” is popular, a better approach is to minimize those footprints too. Walking on wet, muddy trails causes erosion, harms potentially vital plant life, and makes it tougher for future hikers, bikers, and horseback riders to navigate deeply rutted paths. Instead, try to stick to gravel or rocky trails that can endure the wear, and avoid hiking on wet days on busy routes. Straying off the beaten path can also harm sensitive areas, so camping in designated, well-maintained sites is essential for reducing environmental impact.

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3. Properly dispose of waste

The principle of “Pack it in, pack it out” is essential for minimizing waste in the wild—dispose of it at home. While solid human waste typically doesn’t need to be packed out, be sure to bring the necessary tools and follow guidelines for proper burial, maintaining a safe distance from camping sites, trails, freshwater sources, and wildlife paths. Use biodegradable dish and body soap sparingly, and opt for reef-safe sunscreen to reduce harmful runoff from your skin. If you come across litter left by others on the trails, consider packing it out as a courtesy, if you have room.

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4. Leave nature as you found it

Visitors should refrain from taking natural items from their surroundings. While it may be tempting to collect leaves, rocks, and seashells, especially in abundant areas, remember that the collective impact of many visitors can harm the environment and diminish the pristine feeling of remote locations. Additionally, please avoid stacking rocks into decorative cairns. This not only detracts from the untouched wilderness experience for future visitors and causes erosion and damage to moss but can also be disrespectful in areas of cultural significance to Indigenous peoples.

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5. Reduce the impact of campfires

While large bonfires can be visually stunning, flying sparks and ash pose a serious risk of wildfires. This applies to even small fires, so whenever possible, use established metal fire pits, stone fire circles, or create your own firebreak to lessen the impact. Always adhere to local regulations and guidelines regarding wood collection and open flames, especially during high fire season (which seems to be ongoing these days). After your campfire, ensure that it is completely extinguished with water, and stir the coals to ensure they are thoroughly soaked if needed.

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6. Show respect for wildlife

Maintaining a safe distance from wildlife is beneficial for both you and the animals. Approaching too closely for photos can disturb nesting areas and stress local wildlife. Practice patience, allowing animals to move naturally, and use a telephoto lens, taking time to let that family of ducks cross your path. Storing food securely in bear boxes or portable bear-proof containers helps prevent dangerous encounters between people and wildlife, and discourages animals from becoming accustomed to human food.

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7. Be mindful of fellow visitors

Being considerate of other visitors is an important principle when exploring the wilderness. Many people seek the tranquility of nature, so keep your music low (or off), save late-night gatherings for urban areas, and respect others' space when choosing a campsite. When you encounter others on trails, politely announce your presence and be prepared to yield, considering the safety and abilities of others. In many popular regions, hikers, bikers, and horseback riders share trails, so be mindful of their needs and interests during interactions on shared paths.

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8. Share responsibly on social media (*unofficial added principle)

While it’s tempting to share your find of a pristine wildflower meadow on Instagram, this can lead to swarms of followers trampling the same spot. Geotagging a secluded or expert-only campsite, trail, or mountain summit can attract visitors who are unprepared for the environment. The Leave No Trace principle for social media doesn’t mean you have to avoid posting altogether, but it encourages you to think about the potential impact of your shares. Use explanatory and cautionary captions, and when possible, opt for broader geotags like “Yosemite” or “The Rockies” to help reduce over-traffic to sensitive or remote areas.