Seven simple LNT principles emerged from forty years of research and management of outdoor recreation resources. The principles:

• apply to all public and private lands, and all outdoor recreation activities in the backcountry and frontcountry,
• are based on ecological and social science research, and
• are guidelines that require careful thought for changing conditions (e.g., weather, group size, etc.) and special considerations for sensitive environments such as alpine areas, deserts, caves, and arid river corridors.

Visit the links above to learn more about these principles, as well as LNT tips for specific activities.

Leave No Trace and Park Regulations 
LNT principles are not rules or regulations. If everyone practiced LNT, we would need few park regulations. Alas, we are all imperfect humans. Regulations are an important supplemental tool for rangers to ensure unimpaired park resources and high-quality visitor experiences. LNT principles are linked closely to many park regulations.