Leave No Trace: Essential Practices for Responsible Hiking in the Southwest

The Southwest is home to some of the most breathtaking trails, spanning deserts, canyons, towering red rocks and alpine terrain. Yet, as more hikers flock to these landscapes, our impact on these fragile environments grows. Practicing Leave No Trace principles isn’t just a guideline—it's a responsibility every hiker should embrace to preserve the beauty and integrity of our trails.

Why Leave No Trace Matters in the Southwest

The Southwestern landscape is highly susceptible to environmental stress. Desert soil, for instance, can take decades to recover from even minor disturbances, and water sources are scarce and delicate. Following Leave No Trace principles ensures that you’re contributing to the protection of these wild spaces for generations to come.

The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

Preparation is the foundation of responsible hiking. Before setting out:

• Research the trail conditions, weather, and necessary permits.
• Know your limits and bring sufficient supplies, like water, sun protection, and navigation tools.
• Avoid crowded areas if possible, and hike during off-peak times to minimize congestion and impact on the land.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Sensitive desert vegetation and cryptobiotic soil crusts in the Southwest can be easily damaged.

• Stick to designated trails and campsites to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.
• Avoid walking on cryptobiotic soil (often a dark, crusty layer on the ground), as it prevents erosion and fosters life in desert environments.
• When camping, select durable surfaces like rock or sandy areas to set up your site.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack it in, pack it out. This principle applies to everything you bring.

• Pack out all trash, leftover food, and hygiene products.
• Use portable toilets or dig a small hole at least 200 feet from any water source to bury human waste if necessary.
• Leave the land as pristine as you found it—if not better.

4. Leave What You Find

It can be tempting to take a unique rock, plant, or artifact as a souvenir. However, removing these items disrupts the environment and lessens the experience for others.

• Take photos instead of souvenirs.
• Don’t carve or mark rocks, trees, or other natural surfaces.
• Leave all cultural or historic artifacts where you find them.

5. Minimize Campfire Impact

Wildfires are a real risk in the Southwest’s dry climate, so extra caution is essential.

• Use a portable stove for cooking instead of building a fire.
• If fires are permitted, keep them small, contained, and burn only in established fire rings.
• Be sure fires are fully extinguished before leaving, using water to douse the flames.

6. Respect Wildlife

The Southwest is home to unique species like the desert tortoise and bighorn sheep, which are easily stressed by human interaction.

• Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals, as this can disrupt their natural habits.
• Store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife.
• Avoid disturbing sensitive areas, especially during breeding seasons.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

The Southwest is a shared space, and courtesy goes a long way.

• Yield to other hikers on narrow trails, and give uphill hikers the right of way.
• Keep noise levels down to maintain the peace and quiet of natural areas.
• Hike in small groups and encourage others to respect Leave No Trace principles as well.

Going Beyond Leave No Trace: Stewardship on the Trails

Stewardship means caring for the land beyond simply minimizing impact—it involves actively preserving it. Here are a few ways you can contribute:

• Volunteer for Trail Maintenance: Join local groups that organize clean-up days or trail maintenance projects.
• Donate to Conservation Efforts: Many organizations work to protect Southwest trails, habitats, and wildlife. Consider supporting them with a donation.
• Educate Others: Spread awareness by sharing these principles with friends, family, and fellow hikers. Leading by example inspires others to follow suit.

Make a Lasting Impact

Practicing Leave No Trace and stewardship enriches your connection to the Southwest’s landscapes and ensures that future generations will be able to experience the same awe and wonder you do. Whether you’re hiking in Sedona, Grand Canyon, or the San Juan Mountains, each step can make a difference.