As home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Arizona is known for its spectacular outdoor landscapes. With these otherworldly environments comes millions of visitors each year — which is why it’s key that visitors and residents alike are mindful as they explore every corner of the state.
From leaving what you find, to following fire safety protocols, these resources and tips are the starting point for getting off on the right foot during your Arizona adventure.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
APPRECIATE AZ FOR KIDS
Help teach young ones about outdoor safety and the importance of preserving these spaces for others with this kid-friendly activity book.
explore with care
Ranger Talks
Respect Wildlife
Chiricahua National Monument
Stick to Trails
Saguaro National Park
Be careful with fire
Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial
Leave what you find
tonto National Monument
Trash your trash
Lake Havasu
State Park
PLan AHEAD & PREPARE
Organ pipe cactus
STick to trails
kingman blm
leave what you find
Wupatki National Monument
Do You Appreciate AZ?
Help us show Arizona some love and Keep Nature Wild with this free clean-up kit. Stop in any of Arizona's Visitor Information Centers and grab a kit.
Online Course
We share helpful information with a simple framework of minimum impact practices to apply when spending time outdoors.
Appreciate AZ Coalition Partnerships
