As a kid growing up rock climbing in Iowa and Minnesota, I was intrigued by the world and always wanted to know what was under every rock and up every tree. I wanted to explore. Climbing brought me from the bluffs of the Midwest to the Colorado Rockies, the sandstone of Utah, the rugged peaks of Glacier National Park, and Thailand’s amazing limestone.

The more I “explore”, the more I realize that exploring is done with the heart first and foremost. After an enlightening solo backpacking trip through some of Nepal’s steepest treks, I learned that to explore the world was to “trek” through the hearts of those whose travels coincide with yours. To be an adventurer was not just about setting goals and attaining the biggest and the best of achievements, but it was also about learning about and giving back to your environment and connecting with the people who cross paths with you.

After moving to the Pacific NW, I found an area so diverse with possibilities and people whose hearts are in the nature of our area that I often find it difficult to balance a love of many different activities. The similarity is that they all share an expression of passion for the outdoors. My inner drive pushes me to experience the world in a way that allows me to become “hands on” with the earth. In return for this inner passion, I try to balance it by practicing the principles behind making each endeavor one that minimizes the impact on the earth. I want to encourage others to follow their passions for the wilderness, protecting it while seeking its natural treasures and utilizing the best of our collective abilities as we strive towards a harmonious stewardship with nature.

This also means that I practice Leave-No-Trace ethics in the backcountry. This code of ethics is not just to enhance our own enjoyment and that of others, but also that of future generations and of the natural state of wilderness each of us seeks. Some basic LNT principles include:

• Travel in small groups to minimize impact. Avoid “rush hours”.
• When applicable, stay on designated trails at all times, even through water and mud.
• Camp in designated sites or in sites that looks like they have been used before.
• Camp at least 200 ft. from water sources.
• Cook and clean at least 200 ft. from a water source and your camp.
• Only use small amounts of biodegradable soap.
• Avoid building fires. Use a stove.
• Pack it in, pack it out. Cat holes for solid waste.
• Look and don’t touch. Take only pictures, leave only footprints.