Leave No Trace: Plan Ahead and Prepare

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics is dedicated to a mission of protecting the outdoors. This is accomplished by inspiring people and teaching everyone how to be responsible when enjoying the outdoors. The Leave No Trace Center conducts research and delivers leading edge educational material annually to millions of people.

There are seven principles of Leave No Trace:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

4. Leave What You Find

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

6. Respect Wildlife

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

By following these principles, we can all enjoy our world, and leave no trace or impact to the environment. These principles can be applied anywhere, from local community parks to remote wilderness areas and even in your own backyard. These principles are continually being evaluated and the Center provides detailed information on their role in reducing impact to the outdoors.

The first principle, Plan Ahead and Prepare, details the importance of planning and how to enjoy the outdoors with minimal impact.

How to Plan Ahead and Prepare to Reduce Impact

Proper planning and preparation is key to accomplishing your goals safely while minimizing impact to the environment. Before you grab your sleeping bags and pack your cooler, get the most out of your trip by learning the seven elements of planning your outdoor adventure.

Seven Elements of Plan and Prepare

Consider the following seven elements when planning your next outdoor trip:

1. Identify your goals and expectations of your trip

2. Identify the ability and skill level of all trip participants

3. Learn the area you plan to visit including maps, literature and land managers

4. Choose the clothing and equipment for comfort and safety with Leave No Trace qualities

5. Plan your trip activities in line with your goals, abilities and skills

6. Evaluate your trip afterwards to note improvements you can make the next time

In addition to these seven elements, always consider the terrain, the weather, any land boundaries and restrictions. Know the average hiking speed of your group and make sure everyone has the right kind of trekking poles and knows how to use them for your hiking adventures. Cascade Mountain Tech offers a wide selection of trekking poles including carbon fiber, 3K carbon fiber, ultralight, aluminum and folding options.

Cascade Mountain Tech Helps You Plan and Prepare

Cascade Mountain Tech offers high quality hiking and camping gear and tips for the most enjoyable outdoor adventure. Our rotomolded coolers keep ice for up to 10 days and our mummy sleeping bags are rated 0° and 30° to keep you warm in most any environment. 

Cascade Mountain Tech was founded by avid outdoor enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest. We believe that outdoor adventure should be affordable and available to everyone. Contact us with any questions on planning and preparing for your next hike or outdoor trip.