Leave no trace Principle

6. Respect wildlife

You’re a guest in their home — act accordingly.

Whether you're climbing in the desert, the mountains, or a lush canyon, you're sharing space with creatures that live there full-time. From bighorn sheep and pika to falcons and rattlesnakes, wildlife are part of what makes these places wild — and vulnerable.

Respecting wildlife means giving animals the space, silence, and stability they need to thrive. Human presence, even if unintentional, can cause stress, disrupt feeding or nesting, and alter natural behaviors — which, over time, can have serious consequences for entire ecosystems.

How Climbers Can Respect Wildlife

Give Raptors and Nesting Birds Space

  • Many climbing areas are home to protected raptor species, such as peregrine falcons or golden eagles.

  • Land managers often enforce seasonal closures on specific cliffs or zones during nesting season (usually February–July).

    Example: In Red Rock and Yosemite, entire walls may be closed each spring to protect nesting pairs. Climbing in these areas not only endangers the birds — it also jeopardizes access for everyone.

Best Practice:

  • Check with local climbing organizations, guidebooks, or land managers for closure info before heading out.

  • Respect all posted signage — even if no birds are currently visible.

Don’t Feed or Approach Wildlife

  • Feeding animals, intentionally or accidentally (via food scraps or poorly stored snacks), disrupts their natural behavior and can make them dependent on humans.

  • In places like Joshua Tree or Indian Creek, chipmunks, squirrels, and ravens have learned to raid climber packs.

Best Practice:

  • Store food securely and never leave packs unattended at the base of climbs.

  • Don’t share snacks with animals, no matter how cute they are.

Keep a Quiet Crag

  • Loud voices, music, and shouting can startle or displace animals — even when we don’t see them.

    Nuance: Just because you don’t see wildlife doesn’t mean your presence isn’t affecting them.

Best Practice:

  • Keep noise levels low, especially in early morning and late evening when wildlife is most active.

  • Avoid shouting or playing music on speakers — it disturbs both animals and other climbers.

Keep Dogs in Check

  • Off-leash dogs can chase wildlife, trample vegetation, or leave waste in sensitive areas.

  • In some zones, dogs are banned outright due to recurring problems with wildlife harassment.

Best Practice:

  • Keep dogs leashed and under control at all times.

  • If your dog doesn’t do well with recall, crowded crags, or long approaches, consider leaving them at home.

  • Always pack out pet waste — it’s harmful to both wildlife and water sources.

Be Aware, Not Afraid

  • In many regions, snakes, insects, or large mammals (like bears, mountain lions, or moose) may be present.

  • Avoid surprising wildlife by staying on established trails, keeping camps clean, and being alert to your surroundings.

Best Practice:

  • Give all wildlife a wide berth — especially if they appear agitated or are with young.

  • If you encounter wildlife on the trail or at the crag, back away slowly and give them room to move on.

Why It Matters

Wildlife behavior is shaped by human behavior. When we’re careless, animals suffer — and so do we, through increased risk, damaged ecosystems, and restricted access.

Respecting wildlife isn’t just about animals. It’s about preserving the wild in wild places — and reminding ourselves that we are visitors, not owners.

Bear Hangs & Food Storage in the Wild

Keeping food and scented items away from wildlife is critical for both animal safety and your own. In many areas, using a bear canister is required — but in places where they’re not mandatory, a properly executed bear hang is an effective alternative.

Bear Hangs: The Counterbalance or PCT Method

Use a bear hang if:

  • You’re in forested terrain with suitable trees

  • Bear canisters are not required by regulation

  • You have the skills and gear to hang properly

Basic Setup (PCT Method Recommended)

  • Find a tree with a branch 15–20 feet high, with at least 6 feet of clearance from the trunk and other branches.

  • Use 50 feet of rope or cord, a carabiner, and a sturdy stuff sack or dry bag.

  • Hang the bag so it’s:

    • 12 feet off the ground

    • 6 feet from the tree trunk

    • 6 feet below the branch

  • Use a small stick or toggle to suspend the bag (PCT method) and make it difficult for animals to retrieve.

Pro tip: Practice your bear hang technique before your trip — doing it well under pressure or in the dark is tricky.

What to Store in a Hang or Canister

Store anything with a scent, including:

  • Food (cooked and uncooked)

  • Trash

  • Toiletries (toothpaste, sunscreen, bug spray)

  • Dishes, cookware, and utensils

Food & Trash Storage Guidelines by Location

Environment Storage Method

Frontcountry Locked bear boxes, coolers, or vehiclesDon’t leave food out unattended—even at a campsite with a picnic table

Backcountry Bear canisters or proper bear hangsKeep 200+ feet from tent, water, and cooking areas

High alpine or desert Bear canisters preferredTrees may be unavailable; wind and animals can still access trash

Always follow local regulations — some parks (like Yosemite or parts of the Sierra) require bear canisters regardless of your setup.