Do Your Part to Recreate Responsibly – LOVE IT LIKE YOUR OWN!
We’re committed to keeping Montana’s outdoor spaces, communities, residents, and visitors safe. As you enjoy all the area has to offer, please join us in following these guidelines for responsible recreation. The Leave No Trace Seven Principles provide a framework of minimum impact practices for spending time in the outdoors. Plan Ahead & Prepare. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces. Dispose of Waste Properly. Leave What You Find. Minimize Campfire Impact. Respect Wildlife. Be Considerate of Others.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Before arriving, check the status of the place you’d like to visit. It’s good to have a backup plan if your destination is closed or crowded. Consider adjusting the time of day you plan to explore. By arriving early, you may experience shorter lines and reduced crowds for a more enjoyable experience!
Click here for some tips on recreating safely and planning a camping trip.
PLAN AHEAD
Check our local regulations for the latest safety measures. Facilities might be closed, so consider packing a lunch and bring essentials like extra water, food/snacks, bug spray, and a first aid kit. In Montana, both weather and terrain can change quickly. We recommend packing clothing layers to add or remove as weather changes.
Click here for safety tips from our friends at Yellowstone National Park.
PLAY IT SAFE
Have fun, but know your limits. Take it slow and choose lower-risk activities to reduce the strain on search and rescue operations and health care resources. Remember that Montana is home to bears, mountain goats, mountain lions, elk, deer, and more. If you plan to spend time outside, be prepared to have an encounter with our abundant wildlife. Give wildlife their space, do not approach them, and do not feed them. If you plan to hike, be sure to go with a friend, make noise on the trail (talking or clapping), carry bear spray, and know how to use it.
Click here for being safe in bear country.
EXPLORE LOCALLY
Our area is full of local parks, trails, and public spaces. Enjoy them while being mindful of your impact on the surrounding communities. Check-in with local Chambers or Visitor Information Centers to pick up travel guides and maps, as well as get suggestions for things to do, places to go, and insider tips.
Click here for activities and scenic drives.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Pack it in, pack it out!
Pack your garbage out with you and clean up properly. When recreating on public lands, be sure to take care of them by staying on trails. If you plan to camp while you’re here, be sure to do so in an existing campsite or pick a site where vegetation is absent. It’s important to respect public lands and waters, as well as Native and local communities.
Here are some tips for campfire safety.
BUILD AN INCLUSIVE OUTDOORS
Do your part to help make our outdoor spaces safe and welcoming for all identities and abilities.
Most of all Be Patient, Be Kind, Be Cool, and Be Responsible.
To learn more about responsible recreation in Montana, go to visitmt.com/montana-matters or recreateresponsibly.org.