ADK supports the seven principles of the Leave No Trace program:

1. PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE

Know the regulations and special considerations for the area you'll visit.
Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.
Travel in groups of less than ten people to minimize impacts.

2. TRAVEL AND CAMP ON DURABLE SURFACES

Hike in the middle of the trail; stay off of vegetation.
Camp in designated sites where possible.
In other areas, don't camp within 150 feet of water or a trail.

3. DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY

Pack out all trash (including toilet paper), leftover food, and litter.
Use existing privies, or dig a cat hole five to fix inches deep, then cover the hole.
Wash yourself and dishes at least 150 feet from water.

4. LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND

Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them.
Let photos, drawings, or journals help capture your memories.
Do not build structures or furniture or dig trenches.

5. MINIMIZE CAMPFIRE IMPACTS

Use a portable stove to avoid the lasting impact of a campfire.
Where fires are permitted, use existing fire rings and only collect downed wood.
Burn all fires to ash, put out campfires completely, then hide traces of fire.

6. RESPECT WILDLIFE

Observe wildlife from a distance.
Avoid wildlife during mating, nesting, and other sensitive times.
Control pets at all times, and clean up after them.

7. BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHER VISITORS

Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
Let natural sounds prevail; avoid loud sounds and voices.
Be courteous and yield to other users on the trail.

More info is available at the Leave No Trace Web site.


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