Leave No Trace in Off-Roading
“Leave No Trace” in the off-road world means you leave nature looking exactly (or better) than you found it. That includes packing out every single item you bring in—trash, leftover food, broken gear, even micro-trash like zip ties and bottle caps. This mindset keeps trails open and ecosystems healthy.
Example:
At your dispersed campsite, you double-check the area before leaving and find a couple of used zip ties and a food wrapper. You pack them out with your other trash. Later, you volunteer for a trail cleanup event organized by a local club—earning respect in the community and helping preserve access for years to come.
community support
The future of off-roading depends on stewardship and community involvement. One of the best ways to protect access is by volunteering with trail clean-ups, helping with maintenance, or donating to organizations that fight to keep public land open.
You spend the day picking up trash, rerouting a section that was causing erosion, and meeting like-minded off-roaders. Later, you share your experience online, inspiring others to participate. You’ve contributed more than money—you’ve helped preserve the hobby.
Carry Proper Recovery Gear
Every off-roader should carry a basic recovery kit, including items like:
Winch or recovery straps
D-rings or soft shackles
Traction boards
Tire deflator & air compressor
Gloves and a shovel
This isn’t just for self-recovery—it’s how you become an asset to the off-road community.
When stuck behind a slower group, it might be tempting to go around them off-trail. Don’t do it. Ever. This behavior leads to trail widening, habitat destruction, and permanent scars on the land. Be patient, or communicate with the driver ahead to find a safe and legal place to pass—only if the trail allows it.