Sustainable Travel in Arizona | Eco-Friendly Tourism Guide

The Arizona Office of Tourism and the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics© forged a partnership to promote sustainable tourism practices across Arizona's spectacular landscapes and unique destinations.

For a richer experience, learn how you can protect Arizona's iconic natural features while enjoying these spectacular destinations

Sustainable

the 7 leave no trace principles

Whether you’re hiking, camping, or off-roading, these foundational principles help ensure Arizona’s natural places remain wild and welcoming.

Family planning road trip in Arizona desert with map and compass

Hikers walking on dusty trail with desert mountain landscape in background

Trash bin in Arizona desert with dramatic Monument Valley landscape backdrop

Desert landscape with motivational text and Arizona scenic buttes at sunset

Campfire in Arizona desert with warning to be careful with fire

Black bear drinking water with 'Respect Wildlife' message

Hikers with backpacks walking on trail through forest in Arizona

Tread Lightly 5 Principles

These five guidelines are designed for off-road vehicle users to protect trails, respect wildlife, and travel responsibly across Arizona’s rugged terrain.

ATV rider on rocky trail with mountain landscape in Arizona

T - Travel Responsibly

Help protect Arizona’s iconic trails by staying on designated roads, trails and areas. Go over, not around, obstacles to avoid widening the trails. Cross streams only at designated fords. When possible, avoid wet, muddy trails.

Horseback rider on desert trail with hikers, Arizona rights poster

R - Respect the rights of others

Arizona’s trails are for everyone. Help Respect the Rights of Others by being considerate of other trail users. Be a good neighbor by keeping noise and dust down in residential areas and around campsites and crowds.

Hiker with backpack facing mountain, 'Educate Yourself' Arizona poster

E - Educate yourself

Know before you go! Plan and prepare for weather, potential emergencies, and mechanical issues. Get to know the trails prior to your trip by obtaining travel maps and regulations from public agencies. Plan for your trip, take recreation skills classes and know how to operate your equipment safely.

Wildlife conservation poster urging hikers to stay on trail and protect sensitive areas

A - Avoid sensitive areas

Arizona is home to unique landscapes and habitats. Help protect them by avoiding sensitive areas such as lakes, meadows, wetlands and streams. Stay on designated routes. This protects wildlife habitats and sensitive soils from damage. Don’t disturb historical, archeological or paleontological sites.

Arizona environmental poster encouraging trail cleanup and invasive species prevention

D - Do your part

Do your part to take care of your favorite outdoor spaces. Always leave it better than you found it, pack out your trash, and help prevent the spread of invasive species by cleaning your vehicle and equipment before and after a ride.

Vintage Arizona travel poster with desert landscape and hiking icons

ACTIVITY SHEET

CLASSROOM BOOKLET

APPRECIATE AZ FOR KIDS

Help teach young ones about outdoor safety and the importance of preserving these spaces for others with these kid-friendly activities made in partnership with GoNoodle, creators of learning resources for kids and educators.