RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL GUIDE
Simple tips and guidelines for preserving the natural beauty of Kawarthas Northumberland
Travelling responsibly means making thoughtful choices that respect the places you visit and the people who call them home. Small actions can make a big difference in protecting the region’s landscapes, waterways, wildlife, and communities for generations to come. Where you stay, how you explore, and what you support all help care for Kawarthas Northumberland’s natural and cultural heritage.
1. Pace and Planning
Slow Down and Stay Longer
Slow travel invites deeper connections and more meaningful experiences. Spending more time in one place allows you to explore at a relaxed pace, connect with local communities, and discover places you might otherwise miss.
Visit Beyond Peak Season
Travelling during the shoulder seasons (winter and spring) helps reduce crowding at popular sites while supporting local businesses year-round. You’ll enjoy a quieter, more relaxed experience while helping balance tourism impacts.
2. Immerse yourself in Kawarthas Northumberland
Support Local, Make an Impact
Choose locally owned accommodations, restaurants, artisans, guides, and tour operators. Supporting local businesses strengthens the regional economy and helps sustain the unique character of Kawarthas Northumberland.
Experience Local Culture
Get to know the region through its museums, historic sites, festivals, and Indigenous experiences. Learn from local guides, respect community spaces, and honour traditions and private property.
3. Protect the Land
Explore Nature Responsibly
Experiencing the region’s forests, waterways, and trails through low-impact activities like hiking, cycling, paddling, or snowshoeing allows visitors to connect with nature while minimizing your footprint.
Stay on the Path
Stick to marked trails and designated areas to protect fragile plants, prevent erosion, and preserve wildlife habitats for future visitors.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals. Respectful encounters help wildlife thrive and maintain natural behaviours.
Respect Parks and Protected Areas
Follow posted guidelines in provincial parks and conservation areas to ensure these special places remain safe, healthy, and welcoming for generations to come.
4. Everyday Stewardship
Explore on Foot
Walking is one of the best ways to experience local villages and downtowns. Slow down, browse local shops, and discover hidden gems along the way.
Choose Low-Impact Transportation
Whenever possible, walk, bike, paddle, or use public transit. For longer distances, consider carpooling to reduce emissions while exploring thoughtfully.
Use Water and Energy Wisely
Simple actions like turning off lights, limiting water use, and choosing accommodations with sustainable practices help protect local resources.
Practice Leave No Trace
Whether exploring towns, countryside, or wilderness, make it a goal to leave every place as you discovered it. Practice Leave No Trace by disposing of waste responsibly and leaving the wildlife untouched.
