Leave No Trace

Have you ever heard the phrase, “Leave a place better than when you found it”?

Or another, “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.”?

These sayings are all similar to the philosophy of Leave No Trace. Though these 7 concepts that make up the philosophy were originally adapted for the backcountry, most of the ideas are still applicable while recreating in the Dishman Hills.

The 7 concepts are:

Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Check the weather before you leave, and dress accordingly
- Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back
- Familiarize yourself with the trail layout ahead of time
- Bring water, sunscreen, and any necessary medications
Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
- No camping is allowed in the Dishman Hills
- Only use the designated trail – going off trails disturbs plant & animal life, as well as contributes to erosion and trail degredation
Dispose of Waste Properly
- Carry your trash with you and dispose of it in the trash cans located at the trailheads
- Pick up after your pets and carry waste out
- For bonus points, pick up any trash you see, even if it’s not yours!
Leave What You Find
- Don’t pick flowers, break branches, collect rocks, etc.
- Remember, this area is home to many other plants and animals! Be respectful of their home
Minimize Campfire Impact (in this case NO fires of any kind are allowed in the Dishman Hills)
Respect Wildlife
- If you spot any wildlife, do not approach and photograph from a respectful distance
- Keep your pets on a leash – dogs off-leash can disturb both small and large animals alike. Spokane County requires that dogs be leashed at all times within Spokane Parks.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
- Downhills hikers yield to uphill hikers
- Bikers yield to hikers
- Avoid playing music in natural areas