Understanding Hikers’ Behavioral Intent Towards Leave No Trace in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Resource degradation is a chief concern related to increased recreational of U.S. public lands. The Seven Leave No Trace (LNT) Principles are used educate visitors how reduce impacts. This study sought understand Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GRSM) hikers’ behavioral intent towards LNT practices. A quantitative questionnaire was measure participants’ based on 4 predictor variables: attitudes appropriateness, perceived effectiveness, difficulty, and self-reported knowledge. 285 total questionnaires were completed. These results indicate that the variables had varying levels influence intent, with effectiveness difficulty being most significant predictors. GRSM staff may be able hiker impact by focusing education ease practice Principles. also provide increases understanding impacts emphasizes appropriateness proper behavior.