Leave No Trace is a set of ethical guidelines aimed at minimizing human impact on nature during outdoor activities. It focuses on 7 key principles to help people enjoy the outdoors responsibly while preserving the natural environment. These guidelines are especially important in national parks, mountains, forests, and beaches, like Acadia National Park.

The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare:
   • Thoroughly plan your trip to reduce your environmental impact and ensure you have the proper gear to handle unexpected situations.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces:
   • Stay on designated trails, set up tents in established campsites, and avoid leaving footprints or damaging sensitive environments.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly:
   • Pack out all trash, including food scraps, and never bury or leave waste behind in nature.
4. Leave What You Find:
   • Preserve the natural state by not collecting rocks, plants, or historical artifacts. Leave everything as you found it.
5. Respect Wildlife:
   • Avoid feeding or disturbing animals. Keep a safe distance and observe wildlife without interfering.
6. Be Considerate of Others:
   • Allow others to enjoy the outdoors by being mindful of noise levels and etiquette on trails or campsites.
7. Minimize Campfire Impact:
   • Use a camp stove instead of building fires. If fires are necessary, use small, contained fire rings and ensure the fire is completely extinguished.