Conundrum Hot Springs has been targeted as a “hot spot” by the outdoor ethics organization Leave No Trace.
The popular wilderness spot attracts large crowds, which U.S. Forest Service officials say is damaging the fragile high-alpine ecosystem. So the Forest Service is partnering with Leave No Trace, a nonprofit that works to teach people how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly.
Backpackers at Conundrum last year left behind nearly 200 pounds of trash, abandoned campgrounds and large amounts of human feces.
“It’s always a little uncomfortable to talk about poop, but it’s a real issue up there, so we’re asking people to pack out their human waste,” said Katy Nelson, Wilderness and Trails Coordinator with the U.S. Forest Service.
The Forest Service and Leave No Trace trainers are meeting with local chambers of commerce and retailers, spreading the word about the importance of removing all waste from backcountry areas. They will also be talking to hikers at the trailhead and setting up a booth at the Aspen Farmers Market on Saturday.
