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Highlands Trail Town
Written By: Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC | Issue: August 2024
Highlands remains committed to the primacy of the Outdoor Experience.
Highlands is one of 15 communities in North Carolina recognized for its diverse trail experiences and dedication to promoting accessible outdoor activities, responsible visitation, and sustainable tourism.
We are honored to be a part of the Outdoor NC Trail Town Stewardship Designation Program which officially launches this month.
Outdoor NC is committed to promoting stewardship throughout North Carolina, inspiring everyone to not only experience the outdoors, but embrace and protect it as well. It provides a wide variety of resources which educate outdoor adventurers on how they can recreate responsibly, respectfully, and safely.
As proud partners of the Outdoor NC Alliance, we urge everyone to Join the Movement to help us safeguard our beloved outdoor spaces.
Joining the movement is simpler than one might think. Whether adhering to the Leave No Trace Seven Principles or actively participating in our initiatives, such as Plateau Pickup, to preserve Highlands as a stunning destination, every action counts.
Whatever level of involvement, we welcome everyone to share in our commitment to being considerate, inclusive, respectful, and safe in our natural playground. Go to outdoornc.com or scan the QR code provided to learn more.
We recognize that our journey towards destination stewardship requires a collective effort, and we value the pivotal role that our residents and businesses play. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our community and the natural environment.
Here are The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace –
an easily understood framework of minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. The Principles can be applied anywhere — from remote wilderness areas to local parks and even in your backyard. Each Principle covers a specific topic and provides detailed information to empower you to minimize your impacts.
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
