Tread Lightly with TrailMarco: A Guide to Responsible Off-Roading
At TrailMarco, we're all about hitting the trails and experiencing the thrill of off-road exploration. Our focus sets us apart, as we're dedicated to creating unforgettable trail riding experiences that let you push the limits of your Jeep's capabilities while embracing the natural beauty of our island surroundings.
Ryan Darling, Founder of TrailMarco states, "As the founder of TrailMarco, I believe in the power of responsible off-roading. Our club is not just about conquering trails; it's about fostering a sense of community and respect for the environment. The 'Tread Lightly!' program aligns perfectly with our values, emphasizing the importance of preserving our natural landscapes for future generations. Join us in treading lightly, exploring responsibly, and creating lasting memories on and off the trails."
Tread Lightly! Origins
Tread Lightly! is a non-profit organization that was launched in 1985 as a public awareness program by the United States Forest Service. The program was initiated to address the impacts of off-road vehicles on the environment. In 1990, Tread Lightly! transitioned to the private sector and became a non-profit organization1. Today, it is recognized as an important non-political organization2 that is based in Centerville, Utah1.
The mission of Tread Lightly! is to promote responsible outdoor recreation through stewardship, education, and communication1. The organization aims to balance the needs of people who enjoy outdoor recreation with the need to maintain healthy ecosystems and thriving populations of fish and wildlife3. The scope of their work includes both land and water and is representative of nearly every form of outdoor recreation including, but not limited to hunting, recreational shooting, fishing, boating, and promoting safe and responsible use of motorized and mechanized vehicles in the outdoors.
Tread Lightly! offers a wide range of projects, programs, training, and educational materials to promote a responsible outdoor recreation message. Their work includes educating off-road and off-highway vehicle (OHV) users on responsible riding practices, reducing the impact on the environment, and protecting natural and cultural resources4. As a member-based organization, they rely on the support of their members and industry partners to deliver programs and complete trail maintenance and restoration projects that make a meaningful impact on the environment, the off-road community, and the neighboring communities where they live and play.
Accessing the Tread Lightly! program is straightforward. All information is available on the Tread Lightly! website. Individuals, clubs, or businesses can all participate and decide what level they would like to participate. In return, each tier has more and more benefits for you. You can become a member, donate, shop, or get involved in various ways.
Tread Lightly! is the nation’s only source for a full line of motorized and even non-motorized outdoor ethics training and education materials. Their educational materials include quick-tip brochures, online awareness courses, how-to videos, teaching materials, and a line of children’s materials featuring Tread Lightly!’s mascot, named Lightfoot. In 2003, Tread Lightly! launched its Tread Trainer™ program. Tread Trainer is a train-the-trainer program designed to develop a nationwide community of volunteers promoting Tread Lightly!’s ethic of responsible, motorized vehicle use.
Tread Lightly!’s positive message of balancing outdoor ethics with motorized recreation has reached more than 200 million people through strategically designed public service announcements for print, radio, television, and the web4. More than $1 million in advertising space is donated each year to expose Tread Lightly!’s important issue-related messages. News coverage highlighting Tread Lightly! and its message reaches millions of people every year4.
The Tread Lightly! trail maintenance projects and programs, sometimes called “stewardship projects”, are designed to keep motorized recreation trails and riding areas open and accessible by providing much-needed resources for backlogged maintenance and trail restoration projects. Importantly, funding for these initiatives comes heavily from contributions from their members and industry partners. Through the support of multiple industry partners, Tread Lightly! facilitates over 100 trail restoration and maintenance projects every year. Tread Lightly! recognizes that one of the best ways to promote responsible motorized recreation is to get off-road and off-highway vehicle (OHV) users involved in the care of their favorite recreational areas4.
Core Principles and the Exclamation Mark
The "Tread Lightly!" program uses the exclamation mark in its name to emphasize its mission and the urgency of its cause. The program supports recreationists by encouraging outdoor ethics to preserve the beauty of wild land. The word "TREAD" is an acronym that helps us remember to:
Travel responsibly on designated routes and trails or in permitted areas.
Respect the rights of others, including private property owners, all recreational trail users, campers, and others to allow them to enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed.
Educate yourself by obtaining travel maps and regulations from public agencies, planning for your trip, taking recreation skills classes, and knowing how to use and operate your equipment safely.
Avoid sensitive areas, such as meadows, lakeshores, wetlands, and streams, unless on designated routes. This protects wildlife habitat and sensitive soils from damage.
Do your part by leaving the area better than you found it, properly disposing of waste, minimizing the use of fire, avoiding the spread of invasive species, restoring degraded areas, and joining a local enthusiast organization⁴.
The exclamation mark in "Tread Lightly!" serves to underscore the importance of these principles and the program's commitment to promoting responsible recreation through stewardship, education, and communication. It's a way to grab attention and convey enthusiasm for their cause.
Travel Responsibly
Stay 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. Traveling responsibly is the first step towards sustainable tourism and outdoor recreation. It involves staying on designated roads, trails, and areas to prevent damage to the environment. When we venture off the beaten path, we risk damaging plant life, disturbing wildlife, and contributing to soil erosion.
Designated roads, trails, and areas are created to balance our desire for outdoor recreation with the need to preserve the environment. They are carefully planned and maintained to minimize impact on the ecosystem. By staying on these paths, we respect the efforts put into their creation and upkeep.
When faced with obstacles on the trail, the natural instinct might be to go around them. However, this can lead to trail widening, a phenomenon where trails become broader over time due to use and erosion. It can damage the surrounding vegetation and habitats. Therefore, it’s better to go over obstacles, if it’s safe to do so.
“Our trails are like nature’s delicate canvas, and we navigate them with precision.”
Water crossings can be a challenging and exciting part of outdoor adventures. However, it should only be done at designated fords. These are specific points along the trail that have been identified as safe and environmentally friendly for crossing. Random crossings can lead to water pollution and disturbances to aquatic life.
Wet and muddy trails are more susceptible to damage. When possible, avoid these trails as they can be easily eroded or widened by foot or vehicle traffic. If you must use them, try to minimize your impact.
Ryan Darling, the founder of TrailMarco, believes in treading lightly while embracing the thrill of off-road adventures. "Our trails are like nature's delicate canvas, and we navigate them with precision," says Darling. TrailMarco promotes responsible travel by staying on designated routes, going over obstacles, and crossing streams only at designated fords. This ensures our trails remain narrow, preserving the beauty of the landscape and minimizing our impact on the environment.
The “Travel Responsibly” principle is not just about preserving the environment, but also about respecting the rights of others and setting a good example for future generations. It’s about making outdoor recreation a sustainable activity that we can all enjoy for years to come. Remember, every little action counts, and together, we can make a big difference.
Respect the Rights of Others
This includes private property owners, all recreational trail users, campers, and others so they can enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed. Leave gates as you find them. Yield right of way to those passing you or going uphill. Respecting the rights of others is crucial for maintaining harmony in shared outdoor spaces. This includes acknowledging the rights of private property owners, all recreational trail users, campers, and others.
Private property owners have the right to enjoy their land undisturbed. Respecting their rights means not trespassing or causing any damage. Always seek permission before entering private property and follow any rules or guide
Campers seek the tranquility of nature. Respecting their rights means keeping noise to a minimum, especially at night, and maintaining a safe distance from their campsites.elines they have in place.
Outdoor spaces are shared by many different users, including hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and off-road vehicle users. Each group has the right to enjoy the trails in their own way. Respect for other trail users involves understanding and following trail etiquette, such as keeping noise levels down, controlling pets, and not blocking the trail.
Gates are often used to control access and protect the environment or private property. If you encounter a gate, leave it as you found it. If it was open, leave it open. If it was closed, close it behind you. This simple act shows respect for the landowner and helps protect the environment.
Trail etiquette includes yielding the right of way to others. Generally, downhill traffic should yield to uphill traffic, and motorized users should yield to non-motorized users. However, always be ready to make exceptions to these rules in the name of safety and courtesy.
“I believe in the trail as a tapestry where each individual thread represents the rights of every adventurer. Weaving this fabric of respect ensures that every step leaves a footprint of harmony, fostering a community where the rights of all intertwine seamlessly, like threads in a well-crafted tapestry.”
In the words of Ryan Darling, "I believe in the trail as a tapestry where each individual thread represents the rights of every adventurer. Weaving this fabric of respect ensures that every step leaves a footprint of harmony, fostering a community where the rights of all intertwine seamlessly, like threads in a well-crafted tapestry." TrailMarco fosters a culture of respect for private property owners, fellow trail users, and campers. Seeking permission before entering private property, yielding right of way, and leaving gates as found are ingrained in TrailMarco's ethos. By respecting the rights of others, we create an inclusive and harmonious off-road community.
The “Respect the Rights of Others” principle is about fostering a culture of respect and consideration in outdoor spaces. It’s about ensuring that everyone can enjoy their outdoor activities undisturbed. By following this principle, we contribute to making the outdoors a welcoming place for all.
Educate Yourself
Prior to your trip, obtain travel maps and regulations from public agencies. Plan for your trip, take recreation skills classes, and know how to operate your equipment safely. The “Tread Lightly!” principle of “Educate Yourself” is a key aspect of responsible outdoor recreation. It emphasizes the importance of being well-prepared and knowledgeable before embarking on any outdoor adventure.
Education is the foundation of responsible outdoor recreation. It involves understanding the environment, knowing the rules and regulations, and being competent in outdoor skills. Before setting out on your trip, it’s important to obtain travel maps and regulations from public agencies. These resources provide valuable information about the area you’ll be visiting, including topography, trails, campsites, water sources, and points of interest. They also outline the rules and regulations for the area, such as fire restrictions, wildlife protections, and trail usage guidelines.
Planning is a crucial part of any outdoor adventure. It involves researching your destination, checking the weather forecast, packing appropriate gear and supplies, and developing an itinerary. A well-planned trip not only enhances your enjoyment but also reduces the likelihood of encountering problems or causing damage to the environment.
Recreation skills classes are a great way to learn or improve your outdoor skills. These classes can cover a wide range of topics, including navigation, first aid, survival skills, leave no trace principles, and specific activities like hiking, camping, or off-road driving. By improving your skills, you can be more confident and safe in the outdoors.
Knowing how to operate your equipment safely is a key part of outdoor recreation. This includes everything from setting up a tent and using a stove to operating a GPS device or an off-road vehicle. Proper use of equipment not only prevents accidents but also minimizes impact on the environment.
“Knowledge fuels our trails; it’s the compass of responsible exploration.”
Education is the engine that powers every TrailMarco adventure. "Knowledge fuels our trails; it's the compass of responsible exploration," asserts Darling. Before each trip, TrailMarco Ambasitors review Gaia GPS maps, delve into regulations, and plan meticulously. The club encourages participation in recreation skills classes, ensuring members are equipped with the know-how to navigate trails safely and responsibly. Educating ourselves ensures that each trail ride is not just an adventure but a well-informed journey.
The “Educate Yourself” principle is about being a knowledgeable and prepared outdoor enthusiast. It’s about understanding that our actions have an impact on the environment and taking steps to minimize that impact. By educating ourselves, we can enjoy our outdoor adventures while also preserving these precious spaces for future generations.
Avoid Sensitive Areas
On land, this includes meadows, lake shores, wetlands, and streams. Always ride with caution any time water is present. Wet soils are more susceptible to damage. Riding along river and stream beds causes erosion and habitat destruction. Stay on designated routes. This protects wildlife habitats and sensitive soils from damage.
The “Tread Lightly!” principle of “Avoid Sensitive Areas” is a crucial aspect of responsible outdoor recreation. It emphasizes the importance of protecting fragile environments and minimizing our impact on them. Here’s an expanded discussion on this principle:
Sensitive areas are parts of the environment that are particularly vulnerable to damage. They can include a variety of different habitats, such as meadows, lake shores, wetlands, and streams. These areas often support a rich diversity of plant and animal life and play a crucial role in the ecosystem.
Meadows are open, grassy areas that are often home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. They are sensitive to disturbance because they have a thin layer of soil that can be easily compacted or eroded. Avoiding meadows helps protect these unique habitats and the species that depend on them.
Lake shores, or riparian zones, are areas of land adjacent to bodies of water. They are important for water filtration, erosion control, and providing habitat for wildlife. Disturbances to these areas can lead to increased erosion and degradation of water quality.
Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, or is present either at or near the surface of the soil all year or for varying periods of time during the year. They are some of the most productive ecosystems in the world, providing habitat for many species, filtering pollutants from water, and helping to control floods. Wetlands are sensitive to disturbances because they have unique soil conditions that can be easily disrupted.
Streams are bodies of flowing water and are critical for the health of many ecosystems. Riding along stream beds can cause erosion, disrupt aquatic habitats, and degrade water quality. It’s important to cross streams only at designated crossing points and to avoid riding in or along streams whenever possible.
Water plays a crucial role in many ecosystems, and areas near water are often particularly sensitive to disturbance. Wet soils are more susceptible to compaction and erosion, which can lead to habitat destruction and water pollution. Always ride with caution near water and avoid wet, muddy trails whenever possible.
Designated routes are created to minimize impact on the environment while still providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. Staying on these routes helps protect sensitive habitats and soils from damage. It’s important to respect these routes and not venture off them.
“Our tires tread lightly where nature is most delicate. A successful day is not spinning a tire and damaging the trail.”
Ryan Darling and the TrailMarco Ambassadors envision TrailMarco as guardians of fragile environments, stating, "Our tires tread lightly where nature is most delicate. A successful day is not spinning a tire and damaging the trail." The club recognizes the importance of precious habitats and stays on designated routes to protect them. By avoiding sensitive areas, TrailMarco ensures the preservation of these unique ecosystems for future off-road enthusiasts.
The “Avoid Sensitive Areas” principle is about recognizing the value and vulnerability of certain habitats and taking steps to protect them. By avoiding sensitive areas, we can enjoy the outdoors while also preserving these precious spaces for future generations.
Do Your Part
Model appropriate behavior, leave the area better than you found it, properly dispose of waste, minimize the use of fire, avoid the spread of invasive species, and repair degraded areas.
The “Tread Lightly!” principle of “Do Your Part” is a call to action for all outdoor enthusiasts. It emphasizes personal responsibility and proactive behavior in preserving and protecting the outdoors. Here’s an expanded discussion on this principle:
Doing your part means taking personal responsibility for your actions and their impact on the environment. It involves modeling appropriate behavior, leaving areas better than you found them, properly disposing of waste, minimizing the use of fire, avoiding the spread of invasive species, and repairing degraded areas.
Modeling appropriate behavior means acting in a way that is respectful of the environment and other people. This includes following rules and regulations, practicing Leave No Trace principles, and setting a positive example for others. By modeling appropriate behavior, you can influence others and promote a culture of responsible outdoor recreation.
Leave it better than you found it!
Leaving an area better than you found it means not only avoiding damage but also actively improving the environment. This could involve picking up litter, removing graffiti, or restoring damaged areas. By leaving areas better than you found them, you contribute to the preservation and enhancement of these spaces for future generations.
Proper waste disposal is a key aspect of outdoor ethics. This includes packing out all trash, leftover food, and litter, and disposing of human waste properly. Improper waste disposal can harm wildlife, degrade the environment, and detract from the beauty of the outdoors.
Minimizing the use of fire is important for preventing wildfires and reducing impact on the environment. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires. Keep fires small and only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand. Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.
Invasive species can cause significant damage to ecosystems. You can help prevent their spread by cleaning your gear and vehicle before and after your trip, staying on designated routes, and not moving firewood.
Repairing degraded areas involves restoring areas that have been damaged or disturbed. This could involve reseeding bare areas, repairing trails, or restoring habitats. By repairing degraded areas, you can help restore the health and vitality of these spaces.
“Do Your Part is not just a principle; it’s our off-road pledge”
"Do Your Part is not just a principle; it's our off-road pledge," proclaims Darling. TrailMarco members embody this principle by modeling responsible behavior, leaving areas better than they found them, and properly disposing of waste. The club minimizes fire use, prevents the spread of invasive species, and actively repairs degraded areas. TrailMarco's commitment is not just to enjoy the trails but to actively contribute to their preservation and enhancement.
The “Do Your Part” principle is about being a proactive and responsible steward of the outdoors. It’s about recognizing that our actions have an impact and taking steps to ensure that impact is positive. By doing our part, we can enjoy the outdoors while also ensuring these spaces are preserved for future generations.
TrailMarco creatively integrates the Tread Lightly! principles into every trail ride, leaving a positive imprint on the landscape and exemplifying responsible off-road adventure. In addition to the Tread Lightly! Principles TrailMarco actively promotes responsible behavior on the trails, and engaging our community through education and shared values.
Prioritizing Safety in Off-Roading is extremely important. We emphasize the importance of avoiding solo trail rides and encourage members to travel with companions. Always carry the necessary recovery gear, maintain a full tank of gas, and lean on those with expertise for support. Our commitment to safety is unwavering, and we believe in fostering a community that prioritizes preparedness and mutual support on the trails.
Environmental Awareness and stewardship of the environment is a shared responsibility. TrailMarco members adopt a Leave No Trace mindset, leaving our off-road destinations as pristine as we found them.
Through community outreach TrailMarco engages with the off-road community, organizing clean-up initiatives, trail maintenance projects, and educational programs that promote responsible off-roading.
At TrailMarco, our passion for off-roading is not only about the thrill of the journey but also about embracing responsible practices that preserve the natural beauty of our surroundings. One key aspect of our commitment is the classification of trails based on difficulty, ensuring that off-roaders embark on adventures that align with their skill level and vehicle capabilities.
Embarking on an off-road adventure with TrailMarco is an exciting opportunity for every enthusiast, regardless of their experience level. Our trails are categorized based on difficulty, creating a positive and inclusive environment for off-roaders of all backgrounds. This approach ensures that individuals can choose trails that match their skill levels, fostering a sense of achievement and camaraderie among our diverse community.
Our dedication to responsible off-roading begins with skillful trail categorization. Trails are classified into different levels of difficulty, allowing off-roaders to make informed choices that suit their experience and expertise. Whether you're a seasoned off-road enthusiast or a newcomer eager to explore, TrailMarco offers a range of trails that cater to various skill levels.
Vehicle Capabilities and Choosing the Right Trail Ride
Understanding that the off-road experience is deeply connected to the capabilities of your vehicle, we emphasize the importance of choosing trails that align with your off-road vehicle's capabilities. From beginner trails designed for stock Jeeps to advanced trails that challenge upgraded vehicles, every off-roader can find a trail that not only matches their skill level but also showcases the capabilities of their vehicle.
Our trail rides provide a progression that allows off-roaders to build their skills and confidence gradually. By choosing trails aligned with their capabilities, enthusiasts can enjoy a positive off-roading experience, celebrating each successful journey and fostering a supportive community. By categorizing trails based on difficulty, we contribute to land preservation. Responsible off-roading means minimizing environmental impact and tailoring trail choices to individual skill levels ensures that off-roaders navigate the terrain without causing undue harm to the landscape. This approach reflects our collective responsibility to preserve the natural beauty of the areas we explore.
Positive Community Engagement
By providing a variety of trails suited to different skill levels, TrailMarco fosters a welcoming community where off-roaders can connect, share experiences, and encourage each other's growth. Our diverse group of members, ranging from beginners to experienced enthusiasts, creates a vibrant and supportive off-road culture.
Responsible vehicle modifications are encouraged, ensuring enhancements align with trail requirements without causing unnecessary environmental impact. For example, the more challenging trails require at least a 2.5” lift kit and minimum 33” tires. Why? As we encounter challenges such as downed trees or deeper water, your off-road vehicle can simply pass through or over these obstacles without damage to the vehicle or the trail. Plus you’ll have a great time sharing stories of overcoming challenges on the trail, emphasizing the importance of problem-solving while minimizing environmental impact. Guidelines on responsible winching and recovery practices ensure minimal disturbance to the terrain.
In Summary
As off-road enthusiasts, TrailMarco invites you to embrace the principles of the "Tread Lightly!" program. Together, we navigate trails responsibly, leaving a positive impact on the environment and ensuring the thrill of off-roading remains an enduring legacy for generations to come. Explore, respect, and tread lightly with TrailMarco.
TrailMarco's commitment to responsible off-roading and land preservation is reflected in our thoughtful trail classification. We believe that every off-roader, regardless of their skill level, should have the opportunity to explore the great outdoors in a way that aligns with their capabilities. Join us on the trails, choose a route that suits you, and together, let's celebrate the joy of off-roading while preserving the land we love.
I’m Ryan Darling Founder of Trail Marco - Where’s your next adventure?