Become a Level 1 Instructor
Join our Virtual Level 1 Instructor Course. 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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Sustainable Skiing Starts Here
Ski smarter this winter. Learn how your wax choice and simple Leave No Trace habits can protect the mountains you love.
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Start Here. Leave No Trace 101.
New to Leave No Trace? This foundational course teaches the 7 Principles and the science behind them—so you can confidently reduce your impact wherever you go. Simple, practical, and built for real-world use. Take the first step toward protecting the outdoors.
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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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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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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.

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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?

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Care for the Outdoors?
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Join our email list for Leave No Trace tips, research, and ways to put outdoor ethics into action—on the trail, at camp, and beyond.