Whenever you head into the wild outdoors you should always think about ways to minimize the impacts that you and your party have on the flora and fauna that call the area home.  There are five key rules-of-thumb that everyone should adhere to when venturing into the wilderness:

1) Pack out your own trash, and carry out more trash than you bring (Picking up after others will greatly increase the enjoyment that future visitors will have).

2) Tread lightly (Always stay within the confines of the trail.  Trails will often times be muddy and difficult to travel, but by staying on the path you will ensure that there will only be one path.  We have seen areas with up to six trails that parallel one another because people do not respect this principle.  Additionally, if you are camping, try to pitch your tent in an area that will cause the smallest impact).

3) Don't bite at more than you can chew (The ability to recognize your own personal limits will save you from getting into some hairy situations.  Moreover, everyone will have a better time if you stay within your physical parameters.).

4) Follow the rules and regulations delineated by the entity that manages the land (i.e. USFS, BLM, county, city, etc.).

5) RESPECT!!!  Remember that you are a visitor in the place you are traveling.  Respect the land, creatures, and people that you cross paths with.