If you are venturing into designated wilderness or other pristine, undeveloped lands, learn what recommended group sizes are. In areas without trails, groups of four to six people cause less impact than larger groups. Where necessary, obtain permits to camp or climb. Ask about and respect all private property and temporary closures. Adequate clothing, gloves, and some sort of hand warmer will help you resist the temptation to build a fire to warm your fingers.
Fires can leave scars that last for decades.
Discarded tape and cigarette butts are unsightly so consider bringing a small plastic bag in your pack for trash. If all you do is pick up a bit of litter, you will have improved your own Leave No Trace habits. Produced in cooperation with Leave No Trace, Inc. , a non-profit educational corporation authorized by the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to promote the Leave No Trace educational message.