When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.

-John Muir

When visiting our National Parks and Forests, one can’t help but be awed by the magnificence of nature it all its glory. It’s up to us to keep it pristine, and every traveler can take steps to do their part when they visit. Read on for our top tips for sustainable travel.

Green National Park Travel Tips

When visiting our National Parks and Forests, one can’t help but be awed by the magnificence of nature it all its glory. It’s up to us to keep it pristine, and every traveler can take steps to do their part when they visit. Read on for our top tips for sustainable travel.

Recycle and Compost

We offer convenient recycling collection bins throughout our operations. Be sure to take the extra steps to dispose of recyclable and compostable items in the proper place.

Shop Local

Many locally produced souvenirs are available at our retail stores. By buying local we not only support our local communities, but the energy costs associated with transporting those goods are reduced. Consider an edible gift to bring an authentic taste of Crater Lake National Park home with you.

Bring a Refillable Water Bottle

Water filling stations are available throughout our locations. Also, once you’ve purchased a reusable your water bottle refills will be free – so you’ll save money while helping the environment. Forgot your water bottle? Check our retail stores for a souvenir water bottle that you’ll use again and again. 

Watch Energy Use

Be sure to make sure that you’ve turned off the devices that use energy when you leave your room – everything from lights to fans to chargers. Closing the curtains will help maintain temperature control in your room while you’re out.

Use Transportation Alternatives

Consider how you are getting around the destination. Utilize transportation alternatives such as shuttles instead of using your own vehicle – this will cut down on traffic as well as emissions. Whenever possible, try to use “human powered” means of getting around too!

Leave No Trace at Olympic National Park

While Leave No Trace provides a framework to help us decrease our impact on the natural environment, some areas and activities have additional considerations. Keep the following tips in mind while exploring Olympic National Park:

Stay on Trails

Stay on designated trails while hiking. Going off-trail can severely damage the delicate ecosystem of the forest floor; and it’s easy to become lost in the woods without a trail to guide you.

Track your Trash

While boating or kayaking, it’s easy to lose track of loose clothing or snack wrappers that weren’t properly stored in a bag. Properly secure all your belongings so that they do not blow away and pollute the lake and its surroundings.

Clean your Boat

When participating in any activities on the lake that include a watercraft (kayaks, paddle boards, boats, etc), it is possible to unknowingly transport aquatic invasive species. Click here to learn more, and remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat before and after exploring another body of water. NPS boat cleaning stations are available to use for free at Log Cabin, Fairholme, and Barnes Point boat launches.

Protect the Wildlife

Olympic National Park is home to incredible wildlife including salmon, elk and over 300 unique bird species. Respect wildlife by always keeping a safe distance and properly storing and disposing of food waste.

Avoid Plastic

Avoid using single-use, disposable plastics in the park. By opting for reusable alternatives, you’ll help preserve the environment for future generations and protect the wildlife that calls the park home. Please carry out what you bring on your adventure; and remember every small action counts in maintaining the beauty and ecological balance of our park.