Watch the wildlife. 

Focus on filling your memory card or just enjoy the show but resist the urge to feed animals—even the cute ones. We all know that feeding bears can be dangerous, but did you know that simply feeding the chipmunks can be deadly for them? Even if others are feeding the animals remember that you’re doing them a favor by not teaching them humans are sources of food, so they’ll be better prepared to fend for themselves.

GOING BEYOND “LEAVE NO TRACE”  

You’ve probably heard the phrase “take only pictures, leave nothing but footprints”. Although this piece of advice is wonderful to keep in mind when visiting natural areas, I think we can do better. Try leaving the park or beach cleaner than it was when you arrived. Challenge yourself to pick up a few pieces of trash or recyclable material while out and about and dispose of them properly.