Leave No Trace at Olympic National Park
While Leave No Trace provides a framework to help us decrease our impact on the natural environment, some areas, activities, and experiences have additional considerations. Keep the following tips in mind while exploring Olympic National Park.
Stay on Trails
Always stay on designated trails while hiking. Going off-trail can severely damage the delicate ecosystem of the forest floor and can easily lead to becoming lost in the woods without a trail to guide you.
Track your Trash
While boating or kayaking, it’s easy to lose track of loose clothing or snack wrappers that weren’t properly stored. Secure all your belongings so that they do not blow away and pollute the lake or its surroundings.
Clean your Boat
When participating in any activities on the lake that include a watercraft (kayaks, paddle boards, boats, etc.), it is possible to unknowingly transport aquatic invasive species. Remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat before and after exploring another body of water. NPS boat cleaning stations are available for free at Log Cabin, Fairholme, and Barnes Point boat launches.
Protect the Wildlife
Olympic National Park is home to incredible wildlife, including salmon, elk and over 300 unique bird species. Respect wildlife by always keeping a safe distance and properly storing and disposing of food waste.
Avoid Plastic
Avoid using single-use, disposable plastics in the park. By opting for reusable alternatives, you’ll help preserve the environment for future generations and protect the wildlife that calls the park home. Please carry out what you bring on your adventure and remember that every small action counts in maintaining the beauty and ecological balance of our park.