We all love the mountains. Whether you carve powder on your snow machine or enjoy a walk down a snowshoe trail, our passion for the outdoors unites us. The vast majority of our recreation takes place on public lands, and as such we all have a vested interest in maintaining these outdoor spaces. Two often cited ethos, Recreate Responsibly and Leave No Trace, feel right at home when considering a summer hike or camping trip with the family. But, how do these philosophies fit into our winter wonderland?
Recreate Responsibly:
A coalition of government agencies, non-profits, and business that grew in response to our current public health crisis, promote best practices for recreating. As the seasons change and snow begins to fall, we find ourselves navigating the ever-changing landscape of a global pandemic. The guidelines promoted by Recreate Responsibly remain applicable and can help you stay safe this winter. As part of the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, NWAC encourages you to consider these guidelines when seeking out your powder day and wintery mountain views.
Leave No Trace:
“Don’t litter.” “Pack it in, pack it out.” “Bury your poop.” While these statements may fit within the themes of Leave No Trace, they fall short of understanding the primary goal behind the movement to “protect and enjoy our world responsibly.” Leave No Trace utilizes seven principles to empower outdoor users
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Stay safe this winter by planning ahead and being informed about how you can recreate responsibly.
Resources for Recreating Responsibly in Your Winter Recreation
Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest