Human Waste Disposal And Cathole Techniques

Managing human waste is an important part of Leave No Trace practice. In many forest and soil types, guidance suggests digging a cathole—a small pit in the ground—at an appropriate distance from water, trails, and campsites. The waste is deposited in the hole, then covered and disguised with the original soil. Depth and location guidelines are often provided by land managers and may vary by region.

However, catholes are not suitable everywhere. In high alpine areas with thin soil, heavily used zones, some desert environments, or places with limited decomposition, land managers may require alternative approaches. These can include pack-out systems such as specialized bags or containers, or the use of designated toilets at campsites, trailheads, or along popular routes.

Toilet paper management is another consideration. Some areas recommend or require packing out used toilet paper to avoid accumulation and visual impact, while others may have different guidance. Wet wipes and similar products decompose slowly and are commonly discouraged from burial.

This article provides a general overview and does not prescribe a single method for all locations. Hikers are encouraged to follow current local regulations and recommendations, which reflect water resource protection, public health considerations, and the capacity of specific ecosystems to break down waste.