Leave No Trace Principles
Backpacking and hiking trips at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont follow the seven Leave No Trace principles. For more information on Leave No Trace, visit http://www.lnt.org.
Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics
- Plan ahead and prepare.
- Stay on designated trails. Choose an established, legal campsite that will not be damaged by your stay. Camp at least 200 feet from streams.
- Pack out all trash. Properly dispose of what you cannot pack out. Deposit human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, campsites, or trails. Pack out toilet paper.
- Leave what you find, including plants, rocks, and cultural artifacts.
- Minimize use and impact of fires. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings. Do not use living plants for burning material.
- Respect wildlife.
- Be considerate of others.