How to Recreate Responsibly in the PNW
Simple ways to care for the places we love to explore with our families
Whether it’s a lakeside picnic, a mountain trail, or a splash in the river, we’re lucky to raise our kids in one of the most beautiful places in the world. But with that beauty comes responsibility. The PNW — especially around Wenatchee, Leavenworth, and Chelan — sees a lot of outdoor use, and how we show up as moms, hikers, campers, and adventurers matters.
Here’s how to recreate responsibly so we can protect this place for our kids and future generations.
1. Pack It In, Pack It Out — Always
Even if there’s a trash can nearby, it’s best to bring your own bag for garbage. And don’t forget to pack out snack wrappers, diapers, wipes (they’re not biodegradable!), and broken toys.
Kid Tip: Give your child their own small trash bag and make them your “Nature Helper” — it’s a great way to teach stewardship from an early age.
2. Be Smart About Campfires and Burn Bans
Wildfire season is real here. Always check for current burn bans (especially in summer) before lighting anything. Skip the s’mores if conditions aren’t safe — or try a no-fire dessert like marshmallow dip and graham crackers!
Mom Hack: Pack a citronella candle and headlamps for evening coziness without the flames.
3. Go Before You Go (and Plan for No Bathrooms)
Many trailheads and camp spots have no bathrooms — or very rustic ones. Always bring a potty bag, tissues, wipes, and hand sanitizer. For kids who are potty training, a small travel potty in the trunk is a lifesaver.
Packable add-on: WAG bags or doggie bags for everybody’s emergencies.
4. Stay on Trails
It might be tempting to bushwhack for a better photo or shortcut, but that damages fragile ecosystems. Stick to marked trails and avoid walking through wildflowers or alpine meadows — even tiny feet can do big damage over time.
Teach your kids: “If there’s no path, we don’t pass.”
5. Keep Dogs Leashed and Leave No Poo Behind
We love our furry trail friends, but off-leash dogs can scare wildlife, trample delicate plants, or ruin someone else’s peaceful hike. And yes — pick up their poop (and carry it out).
6. Keep It Quiet(ish)
Nature is not the place for blasting Bluetooth speakers or letting kids scream freely for hours. (Yes, even when we’re this close to losing our minds.) Teach respect for others by using quiet voices and saving dance parties for the car ride home.
7. Leave What You Find
Rocks, flowers, feathers, antlers, and pinecones are fun to collect — but they belong in the wild. Take pictures, draw them at home, or start a “PNW Nature Journal” for your kids instead.
8. Respect Wildlife
Admire from a distance. Don’t feed animals. Don’t chase them for a better look. If you’re camping, always store food properly to avoid attracting unwanted furry visitors.
Fun family activity: Bring binoculars and make a wildlife-spotting checklist!
9. Be Kind to Other Outdoor Families
We’re all sharing the same trails, lakes, parks, and campsites. Smile at strangers. Step aside for faster hikers. Offer help if someone looks lost. And if your kid is having a meltdown — we’ve all been there.
10. Plan Ahead, Be Prepared
Always check the weather, trail conditions, and fire risk before heading out. Bring extra water, layers, and snacks — especially if you’re with kids. A little prep goes a long way in avoiding dangerous (or miserable) situations.
Top 3 must-haves:
Extra water bottles
First aid kit
Charged phone + paper map
Raising Respectful Outdoor Kids
As moms, we’re not just hiking for ourselves — we’re modeling how to be good stewards of God’s creation. The more we talk about respect, safety, and care for nature, the more it becomes second nature to our children.
Let’s raise trail-lovers who leave places better than they found them.
