Leave NO Trace

If we want to continue enjoying the beauty of our local trails, forest preserves and State Parks we need to treat them with respect. We all have to do our part to protect the outdoors from abuse and overuse. From day hiking to extended backpacking trips, anyone who spends time outdoors should be familiar with the practice — Leave No Trace.

when hiking, always clean up after yourself.

Here are some tips to help you "Leave No Trace:"

Plan ahead and prepare.

Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you'll visit.

Visit the backcountry in small groups. Small groups are quieter, safer and do less damage to the trail. Avoid popular areas during times of high use.

Choose equipment and clothing in subdued colors. Repackage food into reusable containers. Camp and travel on durable surfaces.

Leave gates as you found them, and leave the land undisturbed for others to enjoy.

Remember, our open spaces and wildlands are protected for all generations. It is up to us to keep them healthy, beautiful, and open to the public for recreation, reflection, and revitalization! Enjoy and learn from historical and archaeological sites, but respect these sites and treasures. Some of these sites are sacred to Native Americans or are important cultural reminders of our heritage.

trash life expectancy

On the Trail:

Stay on designated trails.

Walk single file in the middle of the path.

Stay on the trail even if it's wet and muddy. Slog through it. Going around widens the footpath and contributes to erosion.

Do not shortcut switchbacks. When traveling cross-country, choose the most durable surfaces available: rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow.

Use a map and compass to elimate the need for rock cairns, tree scars and ribbons.

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

At Camp:

Choose an established, legal site that will not be damaged by your stay. Restrict activities to the area where vegetation is compacted or absent.

Keep pollutants out of water sources by camping at least 200 feet (70 adult steps) from lakes and streams.

Pack it in, pack it out

Pack everything that you bring into wild country back out with you. Better yet, go one step further and pick up litter along the route using a side-pocket in your pack for trash.

Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations securely. Pick up all spilled foods. Properly dispose of what you can't pack out

Deposit human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp or trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Use toilet paper or wipes sparingly. Pack them out in plastic bags.

To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes, and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter dish water after removing all food particles.

Inspect your campsite for trash and evidence of your stay.

Pack out all trash: yours and others'.

Leave what you find

Treat our natural heritage with respect. Leave plants, rock, and historical artifacts as you find them.

Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site should not be necessary.

Let nature's sounds prevail. Keep loud voices and noises to a minimum.

Control pets at all times. Remove dog feces from trails or camping areas.

Do not build structures or furniture or dig trenches.

Minimize use and impact of fires

Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Always carry a lightweight stove for cooking.

Enjoy a candle lantern instead of a fire.

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

Do not scar large rocks or overhangs.

Gather sticks no larger than an adult's wrist from the ground.

Do not snap branches off live, dead or downed trees.

Put out campfires completely.

Remove all unburned trash from fire ring and scatter the cool ashes over a large area well away from camp.