Tread Lightly!’s Priciples for Responsible Recreation
(For Download Only)

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TRAVEL & RECREATE WITH MINIMUM IMPACT

• Stay on designated routes. Travel on designated routes only.
• Travel only in areas that are open to your type of recreation.
• Don’t create new routes or expand existing trails.
• Avoid sensitive habitats like wetlands, meadows, and tundra.
• Cross streams only at fords where the road or trail intersects the stream.

RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE RIGHTS OF OTHERS

• Respect and be considerate of other users so that all can enjoy a quality experience in the outdoors.
• When driving, yield to horses, hikers and bikers. In a personal watercraft, be cautious around canoes, kayaks, and other boats.
• Respect wildlife. Be sensitive to their life sustaining needs by keeping your distance.
• Comply with signage.
• Always obtain permission to cross private land.

EDUCATE YOURSELF, PLAN AND PREPARE BEFORE YOU GO

• Know local laws and regulations.
• Have the right information, maps and equipment to make your trip safe, and know how to use them.
• If driving, be sure your vehicle is compatible with road and trail conditions.
• Know which areas and routes are open for your type of recreation.

ALLOW FOR FUTURE USE OF THE OUTDOORS, LEAVE IT BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT

• Take out what you bring in.
• Properly dispose of waste.
• Leave what you find.
• Minimize use of fire.
• Restore degraded areas.
• Avoid the spread of noxious weeds by washing your gear after every trip.

DISCOVER THE REWARDS OF RESPONSIBLE RECREATION

• Do all you can to help preserve the beauty and inspiring attributes of our lands and waters for yourself and future generations.

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