Joshua Bennett
Digging a cathole is an essential skill for backpackers to minimize their impact on the environment while answering nature's call in the wilderness. A cathole is a small, 6-7 inch deep hole used for human waste disposal, typically dug in organic soil at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites. To create one, use a trowel to dig a hole wide enough to accommodate your waste, ensuring it’s deep enough to prevent animals from accessing it but shallow enough to allow for natural decomposition. After use, cover the cathole with the excavated soil and disguise it with natural materials to restore the area to its original state, following Leave No Trace principles. Proper cathole technique helps protect ecosystems, prevent contamination, and maintain the pristine beauty of the backcountry.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Depth | 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) deep to ensure proper waste burial. |
| Location | At least 200 feet (70 adult paces) from water sources, trails, and camps. |
| Soil Type | Prefer sandy or soft soil for easier digging. |
| Tools | Use a lightweight trowel or stick for digging. |
| Diameter | 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) wide, just enough for waste. |
| Toilet Paper Disposal | Pack out used toilet paper in a sealable bag; do not bury it. |
| Covering Waste | Cover waste with the excavated soil after use. |
| Frequency of Use | Avoid using the same cathole repeatedly; move to a new spot each time. |
| Leave No Trace Principle | Follow Leave No Trace guidelines to minimize environmental impact. |
| Hand Sanitization | Use hand sanitizer or wash hands thoroughly after use. |
| Group Considerations | Spread out catholes if in a group to prevent overuse of an area. |
| Rocky or Frozen Ground | Choose a different location if the ground is too hard to dig. |
| Wildlife Awareness | Ensure the cathole is deep enough to prevent animals from digging it up. |
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What You'll Learn
- Choose the Right Location: Select a spot 200+ feet from water, trails, and camps, in organic soil
- Dig Proper Depth: Aim for a 6-8 inch deep hole, wide enough for waste, in soft earth
- Use a Trowel Efficiently: Pack a lightweight trowel for easy digging and minimal soil disturbance
- Dispose of Waste Correctly: Bury toilet paper or pack it out; cover waste thoroughly with soil
- Leave No Trace: Fill the hole, camouflage the site, and avoid repeated use in the same area
Choose the Right Location: Select a spot 200+ feet from water, trails, and camps, in organic soil
When choosing the right location to dig a cathole while backpacking, it's essential to prioritize environmental responsibility and hygiene. The first rule is to select a spot that is at least 200 feet (approximately 70 adult paces) away from any water sources, including rivers, lakes, and streams. This distance helps prevent contamination of water supplies, as pathogens from human waste can easily spread and pose health risks to both wildlife and other hikers. Always err on the side of caution and measure carefully, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or near campsites.
Equally important is maintaining a safe distance from trails and campsites, also at least 200 feet. This minimizes the chances of other hikers stumbling upon your cathole, ensuring privacy and reducing the visual and olfactory impact on the natural environment. Additionally, keeping catholes away from camps helps prevent attracting animals to areas where people are sleeping or cooking, which can lead to unsafe encounters. Remember, the goal is to leave no trace, so choose a location that is discreet and unlikely to be disturbed.
The type of soil is another critical factor when selecting a cathole location. Opt for organic soil, which is typically found in forested areas with leaf litter, pine needles, or other decomposing plant material. Organic soil contains microorganisms that help break down waste more efficiently, accelerating the natural decomposition process. Avoid digging in rocky, sandy, or arid soil, as these environments lack the necessary microbes and moisture to decompose waste effectively. If you’re in an area with sparse vegetation, consider carrying a small trowel to help you find suitable soil beneath the surface.
Before digging, take a moment to assess the surrounding terrain and vegetation. Choose a spot with good drainage to prevent waste from pooling or running off during rain. Slight elevations or areas with natural depressions can be ideal, as they allow water to flow away from the cathole. Also, avoid digging near tree roots, as this can damage the plant and disrupt the ecosystem. By selecting a location with the right soil and terrain, you ensure that your cathole will decompose naturally without harming the environment.
Finally, be mindful of local regulations and guidelines, especially in protected areas or national parks. Some regions may have specific rules about where and how to dispose of human waste, so check with park authorities or trail guides beforehand. If you’re in a heavily trafficked area or an environment with slow decomposition rates (like high altitudes or deserts), consider packing out your waste using a portable waste disposal system. By choosing the right location—200+ feet from water, trails, and camps, in organic soil—you contribute to preserving the wilderness for future generations while practicing responsible backpacking.
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Dig Proper Depth: Aim for a 6-8 inch deep hole, wide enough for waste, in soft earth
When digging a cathole while backpacking, achieving the proper depth is crucial for minimizing environmental impact and ensuring waste is effectively contained. Aim to dig a hole that is 6 to 8 inches deep, as this depth is sufficient to prevent animals from accessing the waste and to allow for natural decomposition. This depth also helps to keep odors contained, reducing the likelihood of attracting wildlife to your campsite. Always choose soft earth for digging, as it requires less effort and minimizes damage to plant roots and soil structure. Avoid rocky or compacted soil, as it can make digging difficult and increase the risk of leaving visible scars on the landscape.
To begin digging, use a lightweight trowel or a sturdy stick to break through the top layer of soil. Insert the tool at a slight angle and leverage it to loosen the earth. Gradually work your way deeper, ensuring the hole is wide enough to accommodate waste without being excessively large. A good rule of thumb is to make the hole wide enough for its intended purpose but no larger, as this helps to concentrate the waste in one area for easier decomposition. If the soil is particularly loose, you may need to widen the hole slightly to prevent collapse, but avoid making it so wide that it becomes unstable.
As you dig, periodically check the depth of the hole using your trowel or a stick as a measuring guide. Aim to reach the 6 to 8 inch mark, but be mindful of the soil composition. If you encounter roots or harder layers of soil, adjust your digging location slightly rather than forcing the hole deeper. Remember, the goal is to create a hole that is deep enough to contain waste while minimizing disturbance to the surrounding environment. Once you’ve reached the appropriate depth, use the trowel to smooth the edges of the hole, ensuring it is ready for use.
Digging in soft earth not only makes the process easier but also ensures that the hole can be properly covered afterward. Soft soil allows for easy refilling and helps to disguise the cathole, leaving no trace of your presence. If the soil is too dry or clumpy, lightly moisten it with water to make it more manageable, but avoid over-saturating the area. Always prioritize digging in areas where vegetation is sparse, as this reduces the impact on plant life and makes it easier to restore the site to its natural state after use.
Finally, after using the cathole, refill it completely with the soil you removed, ensuring no waste is visible. Pack the soil down gently but firmly to mimic the natural ground surface. Properly covering the hole is just as important as digging it to the correct depth, as it prevents animals from digging up the waste and helps maintain the natural appearance of the area. By aiming for a 6 to 8 inch deep hole in soft earth and following these steps, you can practice responsible waste disposal while backpacking and leave no trace of your visit.
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Use a Trowel Efficiently: Pack a lightweight trowel for easy digging and minimal soil disturbance
When backpacking, properly digging a cathole is essential for minimizing your impact on the environment, and using a lightweight trowel is the most efficient way to achieve this. A trowel allows you to dig quickly and with precision, ensuring the hole is deep enough (6-8 inches) to prevent animals from accessing waste while keeping the soil disturbance to a minimum. Unlike using a stick or rock, a trowel creates clean edges and reduces the risk of compacting the soil around the hole. Always pack a trowel specifically designed for backpacking—these are lightweight, compact, and often have serrated edges for easier penetration into hard or root-filled soil.
To use a trowel efficiently, start by selecting a suitable location for your cathole: at least 200 feet (70 adult steps) from water sources, trails, and campsites. Once you’ve identified the spot, position the trowel at a 90-degree angle to the ground and push it straight down, leveraging your body weight to break through the topsoil. Twist the trowel slightly as you dig to loosen the soil, then lift it out and set the soil aside in a small pile. Repeat this process, gradually deepening the hole until it reaches the recommended 6-8 inches. Be mindful of roots or rocks, and adjust your digging angle or location if necessary to avoid damaging the surrounding vegetation.
Efficient trowel use also involves minimizing the size of the hole. A cathole should be just large enough to accommodate your needs, typically no wider than a trowel blade. This reduces the amount of soil displaced and ensures the hole can be easily covered afterward. When digging, focus on creating a cylindrical shape rather than widening the hole unnecessarily. If the soil is particularly hard, use the serrated edge of the trowel (if available) to saw through roots or compacted earth, but avoid excessive force that could damage the tool or the surrounding area.
After use, properly cover the cathole by returning the excavated soil to the hole and tamping it down lightly with the trowel or your boot. This helps the area recover quickly and prevents animals from digging up the waste. Clean your trowel thoroughly with biodegradable soap and water or sanitize it with hand sanitizer before packing it away. Proper maintenance ensures the tool remains effective and hygienic for future use.
Finally, carrying a lightweight trowel is not just about efficiency—it’s a Leave No Trace principle. By packing a dedicated tool, you demonstrate respect for the environment and set a positive example for fellow backpackers. A trowel’s small size and weight make it an easy addition to your essential gear, often weighing less than 2 ounces. Pair it with toilet paper (or biodegradable alternatives) and a small hand sanitizer bottle for a complete cathole kit. With practice, using a trowel becomes second nature, allowing you to dig catholes quickly, effectively, and with minimal environmental impact.
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Dispose of Waste Correctly: Bury toilet paper or pack it out; cover waste thoroughly with soil
When backpacking, properly disposing of human waste is crucial for minimizing environmental impact and maintaining hygiene. One of the most effective methods is to dig a cathole, a small hole specifically for this purpose. To begin, select a location that is at least 200 feet (approximately 70 adult steps) away from water sources, trails, and campsites. This distance ensures that waste is isolated from areas where people gather and from water supplies, reducing the risk of contamination. Avoid areas with heavy vegetation or sensitive ecosystems, as these can be easily damaged.
Once you’ve chosen the right spot, dig your cathole using a trowel or a sturdy stick. The hole should be 6 to 8 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches in diameter—just large enough to contain your waste. This depth allows for natural decomposition while minimizing the chance of animals digging it up. After using the cathole, dispose of toilet paper correctly. If the paper is biodegradable and you’re in a remote area with mineral soil, you can bury it in the cathole. Ensure it is completely covered with soil to aid decomposition and prevent animals from being attracted to the site. However, if the paper is not biodegradable or you’re in an area with organic soil (like deserts or high alpine regions), pack it out in a sealed plastic bag.
Covering the waste thoroughly with soil is the final and most critical step. Use the dirt you excavated to fill the cathole completely, ensuring no waste is visible. Properly covering the waste helps prevent odors, discourages animals from digging, and promotes natural decomposition. Lightly tamp down the soil to blend it with the surrounding area, making it less noticeable. This practice not only protects the environment but also ensures that other hikers can enjoy the area without encountering unpleasant remnants of previous visitors.
In some high-use areas or fragile ecosystems, catholes may not be permitted, and alternative methods like using a portable toilet or wag bag are required. Always check local regulations before your trip to ensure compliance. Even when catholes are allowed, consider using privacy techniques like setting up a makeshift screen with gear or clothing to maintain discretion. By following these steps, you contribute to the preservation of natural areas and demonstrate respect for fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Lastly, remember that proper waste disposal is a shared responsibility among all backpackers. Educate yourself and others on these practices to foster a culture of environmental stewardship. Carrying out what you bring in, including toilet paper when necessary, is a simple yet impactful way to protect the wilderness. By burying waste correctly and covering it thoroughly, you play a vital role in keeping trails and campsites clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
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Leave No Trace: Fill the hole, camouflage the site, and avoid repeated use in the same area
When practicing Leave No Trace principles while backpacking, properly disposing of human waste is crucial to minimizing your impact on the environment. After you’ve finished using the cathole, the first step is to fill the hole completely. Use the soil and organic material you set aside earlier, ensuring the hole is packed tightly to discourage animals from digging it up. Break up any large clumps of soil to create a natural, level surface that blends seamlessly with the surrounding terrain. This not only helps in camouflaging the site but also aids in the natural decomposition process.
Once the hole is filled, take the time to camouflage the site to make it indistinguishable from the surrounding area. Scatter any remaining debris, such as toilet paper (if it’s not packed out), and use leaves, pine needles, or other natural materials to cover the spot. Avoid leaving behind any signs of disturbance, like footprints or displaced rocks, by gently brushing the area with a stick or your hand. The goal is to ensure that other hikers or wildlife cannot detect that the area was recently used.
A critical aspect of Leave No Trace is to avoid repeated use in the same area. Catholes should be dug at least 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) from water sources, trails, and campsites to prevent contamination and maintain a pristine environment. If you’re camping in a group or staying in one location for multiple days, ensure that each cathole is dug in a different spot. Repeated use of the same area can lead to soil degradation, increased visibility of the site, and a higher risk of water pollution.
To further minimize impact, consider the terrain and vegetation when selecting a cathole location. Choose areas with inorganic soil, such as sand or gravel, where decomposition occurs more slowly, or areas with minimal vegetation to reduce damage to plant life. Always prioritize durability zones—areas that can withstand human use without long-term damage. By following these steps—filling the hole, camouflaging the site, and avoiding repeated use—you contribute to preserving the natural beauty of the wilderness for future generations.
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Frequently asked questions
A cathole is a small hole dug in the ground for human waste disposal while backpacking. It’s important because it minimizes environmental impact by burying waste, allowing it to decompose naturally and preventing contamination of water sources and trails.
A cathole should be at least 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) deep to ensure waste is properly buried and inaccessible to animals. This depth also helps with decomposition.
Always dig a cathole at least 200 feet (about 70 steps) away from water sources, trails, and campsites to prevent contamination and maintain hygiene.
Pack out toilet paper in a sealed bag to minimize environmental impact. If packing out isn’t possible, bury it in the cathole, but use minimal amounts and ensure it’s fully covered with soil.
