What makes a durable surface?

The second principle of Leave No Trace is “Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces”. Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, and dry grasses or snow. 

The primary goal of this principle is to minimize damage to the land, plants, and waterways while recreating. Damage occurs when vegetation is trampled beyond recovery. The Central Upper Peninsula has quite sandy soil, which can make certain areas more sensitive to foot or tire traffic.

Here are a few examples of durable surfaces you’ll find around Marquette County including gravel, snow, and dirt trails:

Examples of durable surfaces: a packed gravel trail, a groomed snow trail, and a maintained dirt trail

When tree roots are exposed it’s due to soil erosion which can often lead to the trees and other vegetation dying. Unfortunately, this can be a common occurrence with the sandy soil here, if not managed carefully. Below is a great example of what a durable surface does NOT look like:

A dirt trail with a bunch of exposed roots

Thanks for helping us protect our natural spaces by choosing a durable surface for your next adventure! For further information on camping and hiking on durable surfaces check out this resource from Leave No Trace.