LEAVE NO TRACE
IN MOUNTAINEER
COUNTRY, WV
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What is Leave No Trace?
Mountaineer Country offers tremendous opportunities to immerse yourself into the arts, history, and one-of-a-kind gems for your bucket list. From exploring unique museums to discovering hidden cultural treasures, there’s something for every curious traveler. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a history buff, the region promises unforgettable experiences that will leave you inspired.
The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace
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TRAVEL AND CAMP ON DURABLE SURFACES
Stick to established trails and campsites to minimize the impact you’re making. Walk in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy.
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Dispose of Waste Properly
Pack it in, pack it out. Carry all trash, dog waste, leftover food, and litter with you, and place it in a trash can before leaving the park. Help keep our park systems litter-free!
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Leave What You Find
Our region is rich in natural and cultural resources. Examine these discoveries, take photos, and leave them in the same place for other visitors to enjoy.
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Minimize Campfire Impacts
Campfires can have significant environmental effects. Research the rules for the area you’re visiting and follow guidelines to minimize your impact. Keep fires small and when you are done douse them with water until the ashes are cool to the touch.
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Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow, feed, or approach them. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators.
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Be Considerate of Others
Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. Be courteous, yield to other users on the trail, take breaks, and camp away from trails and other visitors.
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What is Visit Mountaineer Country CVB Doing to Help?
The Visit Mountaineer Country CVB program, in collaboration with the West Virginia Department of Tourism, focuses on educating 1,235 5th graders in 18 schools across three counties, about the importance of Leave No Trace principles.
Also, VMCCVB’s Stella Hehnly and Kathryn Carter were selected to give a 30-minute presentation on the LNT workshops they led in 5th grade classrooms across Mountaineer Country over the last year at the Leave No Trace Global Summit in Colorado.
Students have participated in the Leave No Trace education program
Visit Mountaineer Country’s Destination Development team partnered with the West Virginia Department of Tourism to introduce Leave No Trace principles to North Central West Virginia’s youth.
