At Boulder Mountain Lodge, we are committed to preserving local culture and making the lowest possible impact on the environment. We’re dedicated to the conservation of local ecosystems, and one of our primary goals is to educate guests and encourage them to practice eco-tourism whenever possible.

What is Eco-Tourism?
As tourism spreads throughout the world, travelers are faced with the responsibility of preserving the places they visit so that others may enjoy them later. We should all strive to protect the environment and help nourish its many cultures. The word “Eco-tourism” may sound exotic or even daunting, but the meaning is as simple as traveling responsibly.

The following guidelines were compiled by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). By adhering to these guidelines you can do your part to lessen the impact of tourism.

Respect our Fragile Planet

Keep your group small. Fewer people equal less of everything else: less garbage, less food, smaller fires, smaller campsites, and less crowding of popular areas. Simple solutions make for major improvements.

Leave Only Footprints

Take only photographs, leave only footprints. This simple, often-heard phrase is at the very heart of eco-tourism.  Do not leave litter of any kind or take any souvenirs from historical sites or natural areas.  Leave all rocks where they are.  (The “it’s only a rock” attitude has a significant effect if a million people take one rock each from the area, and in some instances, removing rocks or other souvenirs is a crime.) Remember that archaeological sites and artifacts are protected by law.

In the wilderness, never disturb anything you can avoid disturbing—for example, find fallen branches for firewood instead of cutting down small trees. 

The Road Most Traveled

Always follow designated trails and resist the urge to explore the forest or desert. 

Do not disturb animals, plants, or their natural habitats, and in turn they probably won’t disturb you.

Education Is a Terrible Thing to Waste

Familiarize yourself with the geography, customs, and manners of the region you’re visiting. 

Ignoring or upsetting cultural and community values can cause significant damage. Before traveling, do your research to find out what behavior is and is not appropriate in the areas you plan to visit.

Attending local events encourages indigenous pride and cultural heritage, supporting the preservation of many traditions.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Respect the privacy of others by always asking permission if you wish to photograph them. In some cultures, there is a belief that having one’s photograph taken steals the soul. Regardless of your own belief system, it’s important to respect the ways of others.  Likewise, be considerate of people’s land—always ask permission before entering buildings, shrines, or sacred lands.

Eco-Souvenirs

Souvenirs are a vital part of a trip, for their direct mental link to a memorable vacation; however, it’s important to shop responsibly. Do not buy products made from endangered plants or animals, such as ivory, tortoise shell, animal skins, or feathers. Purchase souvenirs from local artists to help maintain cultural traditions. Extend this idea by dining in locally owned restaurants and choosing locally owned and operated lodges, hotels, and tour-guide services. 

Eco-Friends and Neighbors

The easiest “green” action you can undertake is to support conservation-oriented organizations already working to protect the environment. Select responsible tour operators and guides who contribute financially to conservation and preservation efforts.

It’s A Small World After All

Globetrotting with the world in mind provides a more satisfying way to travel—not only does it challenge you to learn about the places and people you visit, it offers you the opportunity to learn how to sustain fragile environments, economies, and cultures.

Through increased awareness and an earnest desire to help protect natural and cultural resources for the good of the planet and for the generations yet to explore, you can trek to the four corners of the earth and make a positive impact.

Travel with purpose.

The Boulder Mountain Lodge mission is to achieve and maintain a level of service that results in a visitor experience matching the one offered by the unparalleled natural beauty of the Boulder-Escalante Region. We are committed to upholding the following principles.