Let me start by saying I am not a tree-hugging environmentalist.
I do, however believe we should take reasonable care of the land, plant life and animals that live WITH us (yep, humans are a big part of the “ecosystem”) and basic hiking etiquette. So, it really bugs me when I see signs like these up at local hiking areas showing how the actions of a few can ruin the enjoyment of the many.
I was out at the Tapteal Bend area on a walk the other day when I came across these disturbing signs. They talk about vandalism, litter and abuse of the habitat and how the private property owner may be forced to close public access because of this disrespect.
Another problem I notice is side trails on Badger Mountain, despite signs and rocks placed to try and nicely remind people to stay on trails,
Please Stay on the Trails
people blatantly disregard the efforts to maintain the established trail system and avoid a patchwork of criss-cross scars on the hill.
It seems like the hiking areas which are in the more populated areas are more vulnerable to litter. Places like Tapteal Bend and Zintel Canyon have the most litter.
All I can do is plead with readers to remind others about packing their trash to a garbage can.
See hiketricities.com article on hiking etiquette
I imagine most people who read this blog are respectful but nice reminders to others of the problem and other trail etiquette can go a long way to help ensure these hiking areas stay open for more people to enjoy.