Leave No Trace
Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of principles designed to help outdoor enthusiasts minimize their impact on the environment while enjoying their activities. Here are the seven LNT principles for hiking Moraine Lake:
- Plan ahead and prepare: Proper planning and preparation are crucial for minimizing your impact on the environment. This includes things like checking weather forecasts, familiarizing yourself with the trail you will be hiking, and packing appropriate gear and supplies.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Stick to established trails and campsites, and avoid trampling on vegetation or disturbing wildlife habitats.
- Dispose of waste properly: Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter, and dispose of human waste in a cathole dug at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet away from water sources.
- Leave what you find: Do not disturb or remove any natural or cultural features you encounter on the trail, such as plants, rocks, artifacts, or historical structures.
- Minimize campfire impact: Use established fire rings and bring a lightweight stove for cooking. If you must build a fire, use only dead and downed wood, keep it small, and make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving.
- Respect wildlife: Observe animals from a safe distance, avoid approaching or feeding them, and store your food securely to prevent attracting wildlife.
- Be considerate of other visitors: Keep noise levels down, yield to other hikers on the trail, and respect other people's privacy and personal space.
By following these principles, you can help preserve the natural beauty of hiking trails and protect the wildlife that call them home.