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Plan Your Trip
By Leave No Trace.
Adequate trip planning and preparation will help you accomplish trip goals safely and enjoyably, while simultaneously minimizing damage to the land.
Why is trip planning important?
- It helps ensure the safety of groups and individuals.
- It contributes to accomplishing trip goals safely and enjoyably.
- It increases self-confidence and opportunities for learning more about nature.
- It prepares you to Leave No Trace and minimizes resource damage.
7 elements to consider when planning a trip:
- Identify and record the goals and expectations of your trip.
- Identify the skill and ability of trip participants.
- Select destinations that match your goals, skills, and abilities.
- Gain knowledge of the area you plan to visit from land managers, maps, and literature.
- Choose equipment and clothing for comfort, safety, and Leave No Trace qualities.
- Plan trip activities to match your goals, skills, and abilities.
- Evaluate your trip upon return note changes you will make next time.
Consider additional elements:
- Weather
- Terrain
- Regulations/restrictions
- Private land boundaries
- Average hiking speed of group
- Anticipated food consumption (minimize leftovers)
- Group size
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