The seven principals of "leave no trace" creates a foundation of respect and responsibility through educational framework that reduces the influence humans have on the natural environment. Both 7th and 8th grade students at John Muir Elementary in Ashland Oregon are responsible for applying the "leave no trace" principals during a three day backpacking trip. This project focused on building a support system for the development of confidence as students take on the role of leadership as a group. Students practiced decision making on how to ethically reduce the impact they had on the environment for the duration of the backpacking trip; they analyzed the environment for the basis of applying their decisions, such as a sustainable location for camp setup and proper disposal of waste. Ultimately, students developed autonomy and are now able to apply and pass on the principals of "leave no trace" to all nature based activities.