Environment

PROTECT PLANTS AND ANIMALS

Treat Germany’s forests and animals with respect. Some of them are unique and often rare.

REMOVE RUBBISH

Litter is unattractive and can increase vermin and disease. Plan your visits to reduce rubbish, and CARRY OUT WHAT YOU CARRY IN.

BURY TOILET WASTE

In areas without toilet facilities, bury your toilet waste in a shallow hole well away from waterways, tracks, campsites and huts.

KEEP STREAMS AND LAKES CLEAN

When cleaning and washing, take the water and wash well away from the water source. Because soaps and detergents are harmful to water-life, drain used water into the soil to allow it to be filtered. If you suspect the water may be contaminated, either boil it for at least 3 minutes, or filter it, or chemically treat it.

ENJOY YOUR VISIT

Enjoy your outdoor experience. Take a last look before leaving an area: will the next visitor know that you have been there?

Protect the environment for your own sake, for the sake of those who come after you, and for the environment itself.

KEEP TO THE TRACK

By keeping to the track, where one exists, you lessen the chance of damaging fragile plants.

CONSIDER OTHERS

People visit the back country and rural areas for many reasons. Be considerate of other visitors who also have a right to enjoy the natural environment.

TAKE CARE WITH FIRES

Portable fuel stoves are less harmful to the environment and are more efficient than fires. If you do use a fire, keep it small, use only dead wood and make sure it is extinguished by dousing it with water and checking the ashes before leaving.

• Keep to the paths.
• Keep a firm foothold on narrow paths; stay away if you’re not good with heights.
• Be especially careful in wet weather (roots, mossy stones)
• The rocks are often icy in the winter.
• Avoid narrow, steep paths during the winter period.

• Please, use only the marked cycle paths in the National Park.