Feels Like Summer
Social media has emerged as a powerful tool for people to connect, learn, and share their outdoor experiences. With technology like 5G and phones with higher-resolution cameras, hikers can document their journeys, which can reach millions of people worldwide. The internet is now one of the best storytelling tools available, and it's easy to research new trails, connect with like-minded hikers, and raise awareness about important environmental issues. However, your average backpacker is now instantly a filmmaker, photographer, and journalist with the entire world as their potential audience. While some people may roll their eyes at those documenting their entire journeys, it has actually become one of the best storytelling tools available. People ultimately want to share their experiences with each other. The modern use of the internet and social media has given an entire generation an interest in outdoor exploration. A kid may see a picture of a beautiful waterfall or a video of someone documenting their entire journey along the Appalachian Trail and fall in love with the idea of exploring nature themselves.
However, with increased attention and record-breaking attendance to National Parks, it's essential to understand the significant impact that millions of hikers can have on the environment. Littering is one of the biggest challenges that nature preservation faces. Shockingly, over 100 million pounds of waste is left in national parks annually, which can cause irreversible damage to the environment if left unchecked.
To combat this, Leave No Trace, an organization dedicated to educating hikers and campers has developed a set of 7 Principles to guide responsible outdoor exploration. These principles are now adopted by national parks and other organizations worldwide, and the idea is to minimize our impact on the environment while maximizing our enjoyment of nature. The "Pack it in, Pack it out" mentality is crucial in this regard; if you bring something into nature, be sure to take it out with you.
Fortunately, there are several organizations and resources available to help you hike responsibly. Leave No Trace is just one of the many groups working to educate hikers and campers on responsible outdoor practices. Clean Trails is another organization dedicated to raising awareness about litter in popular hiking and camping areas. They organize cleanup campaigns to remove garbage from trailheads and campsites.
With apps like AllTrails, it's now easier than ever to research small hikes near where you live or find new trails in parks on the other side of the country. Social media has also allowed people to connect and form groups from all over the world. Many backpacker groups organize hikes or meetups for people who may not already have others willing to go with them.
So, before your next hiking adventure, consider joining one of these organizations and doing your part to protect the natural wonders of our country. With responsible hiking practices, we can all minimize our impact on the environment and leave nature as we found it. Let's explore the great outdoors with respect and awareness!
