The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace on the Tahoe Rim Trail

Every trail user has a responsibility for minimizing the impacts they have on other users and the surrounding environment. Please follow Leave No Trace practices when you’re out on the Tahoe Rim Trail.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

Know the regulations and trail conditions for the area you are visiting.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Know the TRT camping regulations. Camp at least 200 feet from lakes and streams and at least 100 feet from trails. On the TRT, always camp in established campsites, or on rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack it in, pack it out. Deposit solid human waste (pack out toilet paper) in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Do not wash anything in lakes or streams.

4. Leave What You Find

Leave rocks, plants, and other natural or cultural objects and artifacts as you find them.

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

Campfires are generally prohibited everywhere on the Tahoe Rim Trail. Plan to obtain a fire permit and use a camp stove.

6. Respect Wildlife

Observe wildlife from a distance, do not approach or feed them. Storing food in bear-proof containers is highly recommended.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Respect other visitors and yield to other users on the trail.

 

Leave No Trace Education for Kids

Learn valuable ways to be a steward in your own home and community, all while earning your Leave No Trace Awareness certificate. Follow the Tahoe Rim Trail through the Seven Leave No Trace Principles by clicking on each icon to access the corresponding worksheet and hands-on activity. Submit all completed worksheets to info@tahoerimtrail.org and you(th) will receive your Leave No Trace Awareness certificate from the Center for Outdoor Ethics!

Consider taking a Leave No Trace course in person or online before heading out on the trail.

Check out the complete list of the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace and the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics for more information.