Trail stewardship
Leave the trail better than we found it.
Care for creation is part of how we walk. These practices help protect desert soil, wildlife, water, and the quiet experience of everyone who comes after us.
Why it matters here
The desert is resilient—and deeply vulnerable.
In the Mojave, a careless shortcut can damage fragile soil for years. Food scraps can change wildlife behavior. A small spark can become a serious fire. Leave No Trace gives us a practical, science-based framework for making thoughtful choices before, during, and after every walk.
It is not about perfection or policing one another. It is a shared practice of attention, humility, and care.
The seven principles
A simple framework for every outing.
Plan ahead and prepare
Know the route, weather, regulations, group needs, and essential gear before stepping onto the trail.
Use durable surfaces
Stay on established trails and rest on rock, gravel, or other durable ground rather than fragile vegetation or desert crust.
Dispose of waste properly
Pack out everything you bring in—including food scraps, tissues, and pet waste. Leave the trail cleaner when you can.
Leave what you find
Let rocks, plants, artifacts, and natural objects remain where they belong. Photographs make better souvenirs.
Minimize fire impacts
Follow all fire restrictions. In dry country, choose no-flame options whenever possible and never leave heat unattended.
Respect wildlife
Observe from a distance, never feed animals, secure food, and give wildlife room to move without stress.
Be considerate of others
Share the trail, keep voices and music low, yield thoughtfully, and protect the quiet people came outdoors to experience.
Our trail agreement
What this looks like on an A Hike With God walk.
We stay with the group and on the established route. We carry our own waste, honor closures, give wildlife space, and leave natural and cultural objects untouched. We practice courtesy with other trail users and keep Selah moments quiet enough for the landscape to be heard.
If we find litter and can remove it safely, we do. Stewardship can be a small, faithful act.
Learn more
Go deeper with the source.
These principles are adapted for our walks from the official Leave No Trace guidance. Explore the complete framework or take the free introductory course.
Explore the 7 PrinciplesTake Leave No Trace 101