Disposal of Campfire Embers

[AlabamaDan]

What to do with your campfire when you're finished.  Of course we want to make sure it's all out to prevent fires, clean up the fire pit or whatever method you used.  We talk alot about how to have the fire, but what to do with all those ashes and coals when you're finished.  I see several options:

1.  Dig a hole and bury them.
2.  Spread them over a large area.
3.  Pack them out
4.  Dump them in a creek, lake, stream, etc.
5.  Leave them for the next person - it's only ash.

I've done #1 before, but honestly it can be alot of work and I'm not sure it's the best option.

I've done #5 before too.  (Just being honest!)

Most of the time when I was growing up we did #4 because we felt it left he best option to ensure no forest fires would crop up after we left.  (This is what we did all through Jr. High and High School.)

So, which option do you usually choose and why?

[ednotmilkman]

There is a way to make this a poll on the site if you can find out how.  I'd answer


#6 I Never build a campfire

since I'm more a distance backpacker than an evening "by the fire" relaxer.

[AlabamaDan]

I didn't think to make a poll, but I was rather hoping to have a discussion rather than just a vote.  I would say that never building a fire is the best way to practice LNT.  But, there are some who can't imagine camping without a fire and I'd like to discuss what to do once the fire goes out.

[weathermansam]

I have two approaches.  If the fire ring is already established, I use it and leave the ashes behind, cold and put out with the fury of the Hoover Dam unleashed.  Second, if I'm camping where no ring existed before, I build a small fire, and disperse the rocks from whence they came and scatter the cold ashes and leaves back over to give the appearance there was never a ring there. 

[Uncle Wayne]

#2. Spread them out over a large area.  (Usually on the trail tread, if one exists.)

[bman3725]

#1 rule on LNT principles is "Take only photos and leave only footprints" ashes are no issue burning embers though need to be properly put out, leave NO trash like cans, plastic of any kind, glass, etc etc etc. If there is a fire ring i usually leave it be and even leave wood for the next campers, but if there is no fire ring usually its for a reason. Im a thru hiker and use my stove but love a campfire so usually if there isnt one present i do it close to a stream.