Leave no trace at hoffler creek
An Eagle Scout project by certified Leave No Trace trainer, Aliya Summers
You've found an egret sign! This scavenger hunt is designed to help you discover the seven Leave No Trace Principles—easy-to-follow guidelines that minimize our impact on nature. These principles apply everywhere, from remote wilderness to local areas like Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve.
Keep your eyes open for the other signs along the trail to learn how these principles specifically help protect the wildlife and habitat right here at Hoffler Creek.
Principle 7: Be Considerate of others
Outdoor ethics are all about courtesy. Being considerate of others ensures everyone can enjoy nature no matter how they interact with it. We can respect others and protect the quality of their experience by:​
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Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.
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Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.​​
Protect the Quality of others Experience at Hoffler Creek
Hoffler Creek is a popular outdoor area that sees an average of 7,500 visitors annually. Despite 142-acres of space, it can sometimes get crowded in certain areas on a busy day. Be kind and considerate to other visitors by sharing our trails, waterways, and picnic areas.​​​
need exclusive access?
We offer Facility Rentals for areas like our Pavilion. Contact staff by calling 757-686-8684 or emailing hofflercreek@hofflercreek.org.
embrace diversity
Commit to an outdoors where everyone feels welcome, safe, and has equal access to cultivating a personal connection with nature.
Sharing the Trails of hoffler creek
When enjoying one of the six trails around Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve, you are likely to encounter other hikers.
be courteous
Yield to others. If you are moving faster, politely announce your presence before passing.
right-of-way
Let faster hikers and oncoming hikers in narrow trail sections pass. Step off the trail onto a durable surface to let others pass.
be mindful of noise levels
Everyone has their own purpose for their visit to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve. Some visitors come to spend time with their friends and family, and some come seeking to enjoy solitude and the peace of nature. Help everyone enjoy their time here by being mindful of how music and phone calls may affect the experience of others. If you choose to listen to music or take a phone call, please use headphones. Avoid noise-canceling settings or use only one earbud so you can remain aware of your surroundings.
About
Meet Aliya Summers
I am a certified Leave No Trace Trainer, BSA Scout, BSA Sea Scout, BSA Venturing Scout, OA Brotherhood member, Girl Scout, AFJROTC cadet, Civil Air Patrol cadet, Karate Black Belt, and student at Nansemond River High School, class of 2026.
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For my Eagle Scout project, I aimed to execute something that was helpful to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve and my community by educating visitors about Leave No Trace Principles. Teaching people about Leave No Trace while in nature is beneficial and can have a lasting impact, helping preserve nature for future generations.
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The idea for this project was inspired by the Leave No Trace Big Foot Trail at Cheaha State Park in Alabama, which I hiked when I was ten years old. I give my heartfelt appreciation to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve for helping me bring my vision to life.
