Leave No Trace is a national program which promotes the protection of our nation's parks and wildlands through education, research, and partnerships. Leave No Trace builds awareness, appreciation, and respect for America's public lands by teaching minimum impact skills and wildland ethics. The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace provide an easily understood framework of minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. Although Leave No Trace has its roots in backcountry settings, the Principles have been adapted so that they can be applied anywhere — from remote wilderness areas to smaller frontcountry parks like Scotts Bluff National Monument. Here are some ways you can use the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace to minimize the impact of your visit to Scotts Bluff: Plan Ahead and PreparePrepare for the weather, hazards and emergencies. Remember, weather on the Great Plains is quite variable with high temperatures in the summer, and extreme cold in the winter.
Travel on Durable SurfacesWhen hiking on Scotts Bluff, it is important to stay on the paved trails. Rocks in the area are soft and crumbly and traveling off trail can result in erosion or dangerous rockfalls. Off trail travel can also trample delicate prairie plants. If traveling off trail with a group in the South Bluff area, spread out to avoid creating paths that encourage others to follow. Remember, overnight camping is not permitted anywhere within Scotts Bluff National Monument. Dispose of Waste ProperlyPet waste, human waste & garbage can be harmful to plants and animals, visitors, and the prairie ecosystem. To protect wildlife, human health and keep waterways clean:
Leave What You Find
Minimize Campfire ImpactsFires are not permitted anywhere in the monument. The high winds and dry conditions in every season of the year make prairie fires a constant concern. There are no fire pits or grates at the monument due to the possibility of wildfire. Respect Wildlife
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
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Last updated: February 8, 2023