Program Overview: The Leave No Trace (LNT) principles encourage everyone to enjoy the outdoors responsibly and ensure the long-term health of the environment wherever you go, whether you’re picnicking in a city park or backpacking in the mountains. During this overnight LNT Trainer Course with an LNT master educator, you’ll hike and camp in the Yosemite backcountry while learning how to minimize the unintended impacts humans can have on outdoor spaces — and learn tips to reduce waste generation in Yosemite and at home. Discuss and share LNT and zero waste practices for planning outdoor activities, hiking, cooking outside, cleaning up a campsite, and more.
You’ll have the opportunity to earn your LNT Trainer certification, which qualifies you to lead LNT awareness workshops and educate others about best practices for minimum-footprint outdoor experiences.
Know Before You Go
- When: We’ll kick off with an evening meeting at 6 pm on Friday, June 17th. The overnight backpacking trip begins Saturday, June 18 at 9 am and ends around 3 pm on Sunday, June 19.
- Where: Meet and camp in Yosemite Valley, backpack the Alder Creek Trail in southwestern Yosemite.
- Registration includes: Guided backpacking trip, park entry (as needed), bear-proof canister rental, Yosemite Wilderness permit, and two nights of tent camping at a shared campsite in Yosemite Valley before and after the trip (June 17 and June 19). There is no discount if you choose not to use the included gate pass or campsite.
- Experience level: No experience necessary!
View a suggested packing list.
COVID-19: We have implemented special safety measures to keep participants and instructors safe during the ongoing pandemic. Please review our COVID-19 procedures for details.
