Leave No Trace principles apply year-round, but winter camping presents unique considerations. Snow cover changes how we interact with the environment, and our impact can be different from summer camping.
Proper planning is even more critical in winter. Know the regulations for your area, check weather and avalanche conditions, carry adequate equipment, and plan realistic distances for shorter winter days. Poor preparation leads to emergency situations that can cause greater environmental damage.
Deep snow actually protects vegetation underneath, so winter travel can have less impact on fragile ground cover than summer hiking. However, once spring arrives, compacted snow trails melt out last, potentially damaging plants. Travel on established routes when possible.
Human Waste: In winter, the ground is frozen and digging cat holes may be impossible. Use WAG bags (waste alleviation and gelling bags) or pack out all human waste. In deep snow areas, some land managers allow burial in snow, but this waste will be exposed during spring melt. Pack it out when possible.
Trash: Pack out all trash, including food waste. Leftover food attracts wildlife and does not decompose in frozen conditions. What you bring in, you bring out.
Dishwater: Strain food particles and pack them out. Scatter dishwater at least 200 feet from water sources. In winter, pour dishwater into a sump hole in the snow.
Avoid damaging trees and vegetation for shelter construction. Use dead and downed wood if fires are permitted. Do not cut branches from living trees for shelter building or bedding.
In many winter camping areas, campfires are restricted or impractical. Use a camp stove for all cooking. If fires are permitted, use existing fire rings, keep fires small, and burn all wood to ash. Clean the fire area completely.
Winter is a stressful time for wildlife. Animals conserve energy to survive cold conditions, and being startled or chased by humans can be fatal. Observe from a distance, never approach or feed wildlife, and store food securely.
Keep noise levels reasonable. Yield the trail to other users. Camp out of sight of trails when possible. Leave the area better than you found it.