Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor Course

Overview

The Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor Course provides participants with extensive training in Leave No Trace skills and ethics. This program was designed for those who work extensively in the outdoors as teachers, volunteers, rangers, instructors and guides. Those who complete this program, will be able to provide Leave No Trace Trainer programs.

The Leave No Trace Family

Minimizing our impact on the natural environment helps preserve pristine wilderness settings for generations to come.

According to Leave No Trace, there are over 75,000 Leave No Trace Educators worldwide. These educators represent over thirty countries and every one of the fifty states.

The Leave No Trace curriculum is recognized throughout the world, especially in the outdoor industry, as well as by land management agencies. Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor graduates represent every corner of the industry, including — but not limited to — outdoor retail workers and executives; school teachers; representatives from the US Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the National Park Service; state, county and city parks officials; and scout leaders, college outdoor club members, outfitters, and guides.

Credential Conferred

Those who complete this training will be recognized as Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructors by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.

Successful graduates of the Level 2 Instructor course have the ability to train others in Leave No Trace skills and ethics. Level 2 Instructors can conduct Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructor courses (two-day) and Awareness Workshops (one-day or shorter).

Other Course Options

For those who desire a shorter and more economical program, check out our 2-day Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructor course. The Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructor course is designed for outdoor leaders who will be providing the Leave No Trace training to their trip participants and clients, but not necessarily teaching the curriculum in depth.

Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor Course

Curriculum

Content provided by Leave No Trace:

The first day of this program begins in a classroom, introducing the course and schedule, providing in-depth information on the overall Leave No Trace program, reviewing gear and packing. The remaining days are spent in the field on a backcountry trip, learning and practicing the principles of Leave No Trace.

Leave No Trace students witnessing soil erosion. - Leave No Trace

Each course is staffed with a minimum of two highly experienced outdoor professionals who are Leave No Tracer Level 2 Instructors. You will learn Leave No Trace techniques through skits, discussions, and hands-on activities. To practice Leave No Trace teaching strategies in a supportive, educational environment, each participant will teach a short session focused on the seven Leave No Trace principles.

Most participants to complete a Level 2 Instructor Course receive a one-year membership to Leave No Trace. This membership gives new Level 2 Instructors better access to teaching resources, as well as closer contact with the Center for education, training, and outreach questions.

Those who are looking for a more economical, less comprehensive course in Leave No Trace principles should consider our 2-day Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructors courses. These courses provide adequate preparation for trip leaders who are working under the direct or indirect supervision of more highly trained educators.

Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor Course

Dates

North Cascades, Washington Dates:

April 21 - 25, 2025
July 21 - 25, 2025
Sept 01 - 05, 2025

Sierra Nevada, California Dates:

June 30 - July 4, 2024

Red Rock Canyon, Nevada Dates:

2025 Dates TBD

Observing wildlife from a distance is an integral part of Leave No Trace ethics.

Private Programming

This program may be provided privately at any appropriate location. Please call the American Alpine Institute office for a quote.

Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor Course

Details

Capacity

10 for Backpacking (minimum of 4 students)

Prerequisites

Previous backpacking experience is required. Participants should be able to set-up a tent, use a camp stove, pack a backpack and operate in a wilderness setting, without significant instruction.

If you have not previously backpacked, you can gain the prerequisite experience by taking our 2-day introductory backpacking course.

Cost Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions: Transportation to the program areas from AAI headquarters, all permits and camping fees, and all guide fees. On climbing programs, group technical climbing equipment is also included. A live Zoom gear consult is also included.

Exclusions: Items not included in the course fee include personal clothing, backpacking and camping gear, meals while on program, and travel insurance. Personal climbing gear is not provided on the alpine program. All equipment (climbing, camping, backpacking, etc.) may be rented from AAI's Equipment Shop.