Backcountry Skills for Every Adventure
Learn to camp and travel responsibly with our free, self-paced Backcountry Course. Earn your certificate while protecting the wild places you love.
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Take your passion for the outdoors and turn it into impact
Join our Virtual Level 1 Instructor Course beginning on December 2. This is your chance to become a certified Leave No Trace Instructor and share science-based skills for protecting our lands.
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Stay Certified. Stay Inspired.
Maintain your Level 1 or 2 Trainer status—anytime, anywhere. Our new online recertification course makes it easier than ever to stay current.
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Share the Lands, Welcome Everyone
Learn how to reduce conflict and protect access to public lands by understanding diverse perspectives and practicing responsible recreation.
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We protect the outdoors through science-based education that inspires responsible recreation. Together, we turn everyday visitors into lifelong stewards of the natural world.

Turning Knowledge into Action

We inspire responsible outdoor recreation through education, research, and partnerships, all centered around our 7 Principles. Guided by evidence-based research, these principles help minimize human impact on nature. Learn from our dedicated scientists or enhance your skills by exploring our comprehensive online courses designed for those eager to make a meaningful difference.

“Now more than ever, Leave No Trace feels vital for making a positive impact on nature. Their free educational tools illustrate how easy it is to become a part of the conservation movement and protect nature, and thus leading by example for our communities, friends, families, and other visitors.”

– Gabaccia Moreno

a close-up of a person wearing hiking boots walking on a trail

The 7 Principles

The 7 Principles are fundamental ethical guidelines that help individuals and organizations navigate moral decision-making and interpersonal interactions. They emphasize integrity, respect, responsibility, fairness, and compassion. These principles serve as a moral compass, guiding individuals toward ethical actions and fostering trust, cooperation, and well-being in communities.

Spotlight Program

Leave No Trace Spotlights bring communities together to protect and preserve the outdoors. These events offer free training, community outreach, and volunteer opportunities, all aimed at inspiring local action. Learn more about how you can get involved and make a difference.

Recent Stories

Shop Gear That Gives Back

Every purchase from our store directly fuels our mission—100% of proceeds support protecting and preserving the outdoors.

Upcoming Events

Partnerships

Leave No Trace partners with remarkable organizations. Is yours ready to join?