Ramble Responsibly: Winter

Although Leave No Trace has its roots in backcountry settings, the principles have been adapted so they can be applied anywhere — from remote wilderness areas to local parks and even in your own backyard.

While visiting Ramblers this winter, we ask that you Ramble Responsibility by following these principles:

Plan Ahead & Prepare

Check avalanche and weather reports, consult maps and local authorities about high danger areas, safety information, and regulations. Monitor snow conditions frequently and prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies. Carry an avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel, and leave your itinerary with family or friends before heading out.

Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces

Stick to trails and stay on deep snow cover whenever possible. Travel and camp away from avalanche paths, cornices, steep slopes and unstable snow.

Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack out all trash- yours and others, including food scraps, wax shavings, and pieces of litter. Where snow is too deep or the ground is frozen, be prepared to pack out solid human waste.

Leave What You Find

Take a photo, draw or paint a picture, write a song or poem, or create a dance. Leave everything else where you found it. 

Minimize Campfire Impacts

Where fires are permitted, use designated fire rings. Keep fires small, burn only downed wood smaller than your wrist, and put out campfires completely.

Respect Wildlife

Winter is an especially vulnerable time for animals. Observe wildlife from a distance, never follow, approach or feed animals, and store food and trash securely.

Be Considerate of Others

Keep noise to a minimum when near others, and let nature’s sounds prevail. When ascending trails, keep clear and yield to downhill traffic. Avoid booting and snowshoeing in skin or ski tracks.