Navigating Nature's Call: Your Essential Guide to Going to the Toilet When Hiking
Hitting the trail is a fantastic way to connect with nature and get some exercise. But what happens when nature calls, and you're miles away from a civilized restroom? Don't let that potential pit stop be a source of stress! This guide will equip you with the knowledge and practical tips to handle your business responsibly and comfortably when hiking in the great outdoors.
The Golden Rule: Leave No Trace
Before we dive into the specifics, it's crucial to understand the core principle: Leave No Trace. This means minimizing your impact on the environment, and that absolutely includes proper waste disposal. Your goal is to leave the area exactly as you found it, if not better. This protects wildlife, preserves the beauty of the landscape, and ensures future generations can enjoy the same trails.
Planning Ahead: Prevention is Key
The best way to manage your bathroom breaks is to be prepared. Here's how:
- Hydration: While staying hydrated is essential for a good hike, be mindful of how much you're drinking right before and during your hike. You might want to limit your fluid intake a couple of hours before your hike if you anticipate being in a remote area with no facilities.
- Potty Breaks Before You Go: Always use a restroom at the trailhead or a visitor center before embarking on your hike. This can buy you valuable time on the trail.
- Know Your Route: If you're hiking in a well-established park, research if there are any designated outhouses or composting toilets along your route.
When Nature Calls: The "How-To" for Solid Waste
This is where most hikers have questions. Dealing with solid waste in the backcountry requires a bit of effort and the right tools. Here's the breakdown:
Step 1: Find a Suitable Location
This is arguably the most important step. Look for a spot that meets these criteria:
- At Least 200 Feet (70 Big Steps) from Water Sources: This is a hard and fast rule to protect our rivers, streams, and lakes from contamination.
- At Least 200 Feet from Trails and Campsites: You don't want to create an unpleasant experience for other hikers or campers, nor do you want to attract wildlife to your immediate vicinity.
- In an Area Where Digging is Possible: Aim for soil that isn't too rocky or root-bound.
Step 2: Dig a "Cathole"
This is your personal backcountry toilet. You'll need:
- A Trowel: A small, lightweight trowel designed for camping is ideal. You can often find these at outdoor gear stores.
- Digging Your Cathole: Aim for a hole that's about 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches wide. This depth helps with decomposition and reduces the chance of animals digging it up.
Step 3: Do Your Business
Once your cathole is ready, squat over it and do your thing. Try to aim directly into the hole.
Step 4: Pack It Out or Bury It (Properly)
This is where opinions and regulations can differ, but the most responsible approach, especially in popular or environmentally sensitive areas, is to pack out your toilet paper and solid waste. Here's how:
- For Toilet Paper: If you choose to use toilet paper (which is often discouraged in favor of other methods), you MUST pack it out. Use a sealable plastic bag (like a Ziploc) or a designated "wag bag" to store used toilet paper.
- For Solid Waste: While burying your waste in a cathole is permissible in some areas, packing it out is increasingly the recommended and sometimes required method. This is done by using specialized "wag bags" or "restop bags" which are designed to contain odors and are often biodegradable. Place your solid waste directly into the wag bag and seal it securely.
- Burying (If Permitted and Practiced): If you choose to bury your waste, thoroughly cover the cathole with the soil you removed. Make sure it's completely concealed. You can then scatter leaves or natural debris on top to further camouflage it.
Step 5: Disguise the Site
Once you're done, cover the cathole completely with soil. Make it look as natural as possible, as if you were never there. Scatter some leaves or pine needles over the spot.
Dealing with Pee: The Simpler Side of Things
Urinating in the backcountry is generally less complicated, but still requires consideration:
- Find a Suitable Location: Similar to solid waste, aim to be at least 200 feet from water sources and trails.
- Allow it to Soak In: Unlike solid waste, urine can be absorbed by the soil.
- Avoid Concentrated Areas: Don't pee in the same spot repeatedly, as this can create odor issues and potentially damage vegetation.
What to Pack for Backcountry Bathroom Needs
Being prepared means having the right gear. Here's a suggested packing list:
- Trowel: Essential for digging catholes.
- Biodegradable Toilet Paper: If you choose to use it, ensure it's biodegradable and pack out any unused or used portions.
- Wag Bags or Restop Bags: Highly recommended for packing out solid waste and used toilet paper.
- Hand Sanitizer: Crucial for cleaning your hands after using the facilities.
- Small Shovel: Some people prefer a small, foldable shovel over a trowel.
- Ziploc Bags: Useful for storing used toilet paper or other waste.
Special Considerations for Women
Women may have a few additional considerations:
- Menstrual Products: All menstrual products, including tampons and pads, MUST be packed out. Never bury them. Use a sealable bag for disposal.
- Urinary Devices: Devices like a "Go-Girl" or "Pee-Buddy" can make urination easier and more discreet when standing.
What About Public Restrooms on Trails?
Some parks and trails do have designated restrooms, which can range from basic outhouses to more modern composting toilets. Always check park regulations and trail descriptions beforehand. When using these facilities:
- Be Considerate: Keep them clean for the next person.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Follow any posted instructions for waste disposal.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Toilets
How deep should a cathole be when hiking?
A cathole should be about 6 to 8 inches deep. This depth helps to ensure that waste decomposes properly and is less likely to be disturbed by animals.
Why is it important to be 200 feet away from water when going to the toilet?
Being at least 200 feet away from water sources is critical to prevent the contamination of drinking water and aquatic ecosystems. Even small amounts of human waste can introduce harmful bacteria and nutrients that can negatively impact water quality.
What is a "wag bag" and why should I use one?
A wag bag (or "restop bag") is a specialized, sealable bag designed for packing out human waste. They are often odor-resistant and can be made of biodegradable materials. Using one is the most environmentally responsible way to deal with solid waste in the backcountry, especially in areas where burying is discouraged or prohibited.
Can I just leave toilet paper on the trail?
Absolutely not. Toilet paper, even if biodegradable, takes a long time to decompose in many backcountry conditions. It is unsightly, can be spread by animals, and is a clear sign of human presence. Always pack out used toilet paper.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your hiking adventures with confidence, knowing you're doing your part to protect the beautiful natural environments you explore.
