Leave No Trace Level I Trainer

June 17–18, 2026
Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument

This two-day Leave No Trace Trainer Course is designed for outdoor educators, guides, recreation professionals, volunteers, and anyone who wants to better understand minimal impact recreation and teach others how to responsibly enjoy the outdoors. Led by Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters staff and Registered Maine Guides and taking place in Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument, this course combines hands-on learning, discussion, day hiking, and one overnight camping experience. Participants will explore the science behind the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace while building the confidence and teaching skills needed to share these practices with others.


What You’ll Learn

Participants will:

  • Build a deeper understanding of the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace
  • Learn practical minimum-impact outdoor skills
  • Explore the science and decision-making behind outdoor ethics
  • Practice teaching Leave No Trace concepts through interactive activities
  • Develop tools to lead conversations about responsible recreation

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will become certified Leave No Trace Level 1 Trainers and receive a completion certificate through the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. Graduates are equipped to facilitate Leave No Trace Awareness Workshops and help teach future Trainer courses alongside qualified instructors.


Course Format

This is a two-day, overnight field course that includes:

  • Front-country camping at Lunksoos Group Campsite
  • Group discussions and interactive lessons
  • A participant-led teaching activity
  • Certificate of completion

This is a car camping course, so participants will be able to drive directly to camp and are welcome to bring extra comfort items.


Food + Gear

To keep this course affordable, participants are responsible for bringing their own food, snacks, cooking equipment and camping gear for two full days. A full packing list will be sent after registration. Friends of Katahdin Woods & Waters will provide:

  • Clean drinking water
  • Group dishwashing supplies
  • Group tarps/rain shelter
  • First aid supplies
  • Course materials

Who Should Attend?

Whether you teach others outdoors professionally or simply want to become a better steward of public lands, this course offers practical skills you can use right away. This course is a great fit for:

  • Outdoor educators
  • Camp staff
  • Guides
  • Teachers
  • Volunteers
  • Recreation professionals
  • Frequent hikers, paddlers, and campers
  • Anyone passionate about protecting outdoor spaces

Contact elise@friendsofkww.org with questions.

When
June 17th, 2026 9:00 AM to June 18th, 2026 4:00 PM
Location
Lunksoos Campground, Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument
Event Fee(s)
Public Fee (standard) $120.00
Friends of KWW Member $80.00
Friends of KWW Employee or Youth $0.00