Winter transforms our forests into a breathtaking wonderland, but cold weather doesn’t freeze our responsibility to protect the land! Here’s how to minimize your impact while exploring wild spaces in winter:
Stay on Trails – Snow can hide fragile plants and small animal burrows. Stick toestablished paths to prevent erosion and habitat damage.
Respect Winter Wildlife – Animals are already stressed by the cold. Avoid disturbingdens, nests, and food caches. If you see tracks, enjoy from a distance!
Pack It In, Pack It Out – Snow doesn’t make trash disappear—it just buries it untilspring. Always carry out your waste, including food scraps!
Campfire Caution – Use a fire pan or designated fire ring to avoid scarring thelandscape. Never burn trash and always drown your fire completely.
Snow ≠ a Toilet – If restrooms aren’t available, bury human waste at least 200 feetfrom trails and water sources, or better yet, pack it out!
Leave No Trace, Even in the Snow! Let’s protect our forests year-round.
