Preserving Wenatchee and Surrounding Areas
The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has been selected as a 2025 Leave No Trace Spotlight, and Wenatchee Outdoors is honored to be part of this important initiative. We’re grateful for the opportunity to attend the workshop and want to share some key Leave No Trace practices that are especially relevant to outdoor adventures in the Wenatchee Valley. From planning ahead and staying on durable trails, to respecting wildlife and preserving the natural beauty of wildflower-filled meadows, these principles help protect our local landscapes for future generations. Stay tuned as we highlight simple ways you can make a positive impact every time you head outside. Trails like Saddle Rock, Horse Lake Reserve, and the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail offer diverse landscapes for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers.
The amazing spring we had this year with blooming balsamroot and lupine led us to see the increasing popularity of trails bringing a pressing need for sharing responsible recreation. Embracing and helping spread the work of the Leave No Trace (LNT) principles is essential to protect these natural treasures for years to come. LNT is a set of 7 Principles designed to minimize human impact on the environment:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Research trail conditions and regulations before heading out.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and campsites.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, leftover food, and dog waste.
- Leave What You Find: Preserve the past; leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them.
- Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Yield to other users on the trail and keep noise levels down.
As summer backpacking quickly approaches and the days grow longer, more and more people are lacing up their boots and heading to the trails to soak up the sunshine, fresh air, and stunning views this valley brings. With the increase in foot traffic on our favorite outdoor spaces, it is the perfect time to implement the LNT principles. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just getting started, a reminder of the “how-tos” and “what-not-to-dos” of responsible recreation is essential to preserving the beauty and integrity of our wild places. From packing out your trash to staying on designated paths, respecting wildlife, keeping dogs leashed and cleaned up after, these small actions add up to make a big difference. Let’s all do our part to keep our trails clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone pups included, this summer and beyond.
Applying Leave No Trace on Wenatchee’s Trails
Saddle Rock & Jacobson: This hike offers panoramic views of Wenatchee. Due to its popularity, it’s crucial to stay on the main path to prevent trail widening and erosion. Always pack out what you pack in, including items like orange peels.
Horse Lake Reserve: Known for its wildflower displays and interpretive signs, this area is sensitive to off-trail exploration. Stay on marked trails to help preserve fragile plants and prevent disruption to wildlife habitats.
Horan Natural Area: A haven for wildlife, this area is home to oxbow ponds and a rich variety of bird species. Avoid feeding animals
and stay on the gravel trails to minimize human impact on this sensitive ecosystem.
As Wenatchee and the surrounding trails continue to attract visitors, it’s imperative that we all commit to responsible recreation. By adhering to LNT principles, we ensure that these natural landscapes remain pristine and accessible for future generations. Tread lightly and leave only footprints.
Sharing, Learning, and Educating
Preserving Wenatchee’s beautiful outdoor spaces isn’t just about following LNT principles ourselves, it’s also about spreading awareness and encouraging others to do the same. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to the trails, sharing your knowledge helps build a culture of respect and care for the environment.
Share
Talk with friends, family, and fellow trail users about the importance of LNT. Simple conversations about packing out trash or staying on the trail can inspire others to adopt better habits. The Authority of the Resource technique is perfect for rangers, volunteers, and even everyday citizens who wish to educate others in a positive way that can actually make a difference. If you’re posting on social media, use your platform to highlight responsible recreation and tag your location with a reminder to “Leave No Trace.”
Learning
LNT practices are rooted in science and stewardship. Consider taking an online LNT 101 Course to deepen your understanding.
Educating
You don’t need to be a ranger or trail crew member to teach others. If you lead hikes, guide outdoor groups, or simply bring your kids into nature, take a few moments to explain why we do things like pick up litter or observe wildlife from a distance. Modeling good behavior is one of the most effective teaching tools available, a great option for online education is No Trace for Every Kid.
By sharing, learning, and educating, we turn individual efforts into a community movement. When we all embrace Leave No Trace, Wenatchee’s trails can remain wild, clean, and welcoming for everyone — now and in the future.
