Colorado's beloved backcountry is facing a mounting issue: hikers' waste. The problem is particularly acute on Mount Elbert, Colorado's highest peak, where as many as 11% of hikers leave their mark along the trail. While some use the free human waste bags provided by PACT Outdoors, a staggering 40% resort to digging holes for their deposits. This not only poses a health risk but also damages the delicate alpine environment, which lacks the organisms needed to biodegrade waste.
The issue extends beyond Mount Elbert. Over 40% of Colorado's 58 14ers lack toilets at their trailheads, and high-altitude hikers often suffer from gastrointestinal distress. This highlights a need for better waste management solutions in the state's backcountry.
One promising solution is the use of 'wag bags,' short for waste aggregation and gelling. These bags, which include two durable bags and a special powder that dehydrates and kills bacteria, are proving popular among hikers. A survey of 410 hikers on Mount Elbert found that 30% used wag bags and 87% were willing to use them again. This suggests that, despite initial hesitancy, hikers are open to using these bags if they are easily available.
However, the reliance on wag bags could grow as federal land managers face budget and staffing constraints. This means that new vault toilets may not be a priority, and existing facilities may struggle to maintain consistent cleanliness. In response, initiatives like PACT Outdoor's wag bag kiosks are being installed in popular hiking areas.
The White River National Forest has seen success with wag bags, distributing over 7,500 bags at four trailheads in partnership with The Forest Conservancy. This has led to a significant reduction in exposed poop piles in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, from 351 in 2015 to 53 last year. The forest has also installed three new vault toilets since 2022, and is working to secure funding for four more.
Despite the progress, there is still a learning curve. Some hikers are hesitant to use wag bags, and there is a need for better messaging to educate them about the environmental impact of improper waste disposal. Additionally, ensuring that wag bag kiosks are consistently stocked and maintained in remote locations can be challenging.
In conclusion, while wag bags offer a viable solution to the backcountry waste problem, a blended approach is necessary. This includes providing wag bags at trailheads, improving waste management infrastructure, and educating hikers about the importance of proper waste disposal. By working together, we can ensure that Colorado's backcountry remains a pristine and enjoyable destination for all.
