Leave No Trace Confessional: I Pooped in Front of an Audience

“When my dad and I climbed Mt. Whitney, we carried WAG bags. But he believed he could hold it—until, on the descent, his scenario became dire. He dropped his pack and bolted behind a rock. To my horror, I saw we had been 100 feet above Trail Camp, exactly where all the persons had a clear view of his enterprise. He returned with a appear of shame—he’d forgotten his WAG bag and, embarrassed by the audience, he fled as rapidly as achievable.” –Distraught Daughter

Dear Distraught,

Let’s hope he didn’t leave TP there, also. We’re tempted to let your dad’s (and your) shame be all the penance he owes right here, but Trail Camp is a busy spot, as you will probably by no means neglect. Fragile alpine environments are in particular vulnerable to the impacts of human waste. Leaving your poo on the surface can spread bacteria and contaminate water sources—plus, it is just plain gross for whoever wanders behind that boulder subsequent. (Fortunately, the turd has most likely dried up and blown away by now.) Your dad’s error could have effortlessly been reversed on the spot: He need to have returned to the scene with his WAG bag and packed out the mess. The crowd may well even have cheered.