What to Do If You Have to Poop While Hiking?

Let’s be honest: evryone loves hiking... until their stomach turns into a ticking poop bomb halfway up the trail. If you've ever broken into a cold sweat mid-climb and thought, “Dear nature gods, not now,” you’re not alone. Welcome to the wild world of outdoor pooping. It’s not glamorous—but with a little prep, it doesn’t have to be a disaster either.

1. Know the Signs (Trust Your Gut—Literally)

• Sudden cramps? That suspicious gurgle? The moment you start clenching and praying? Those are nature’s evacuation notices.
• Don’t wait. Denial will betray you. Act before it becomes a full-blown “crisis squat.”

2. Prep Before You Step

• Eat clean before the hike—skip greasy food bombs and dairy roulette.
• Pack the holy poop trinity: TP or wipes, hand sanitizer, and a small trowel.
• Optional MVPs: ziplock bag (for TP trash), poop kit pouch, and a sense of humor.

3. Find the Right Poop Spot

• Rule #1: Go 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) away from water, trails, and campsites.
• Look for soft soil, tree cover, and privacy—but don't get so deep in the woods you can’t find your way back (it’s not a boss level).
• No cliff edges. We’re dropping loads, not making headlines.

4. Dig the Hole, Don’t Be One

• Use your trowel (or a rock if you’re feeling primal) to dig a **6-8 inch deep cathole**.
• Poop in the hole. Cover it with the original dirt. Pat it down like a cake you never want to see again.
• Mark it discreetly if you’re in a group, or just... don’t poop near your friends.

5. Wipe Smart, Wipe Right

• TP is fine—but do not leave it behind. Either bury it in the cathole **or pack it out** in a sealed bag.
• Biodegradable wipes are great, but they still need to be packed out unless you’re 100% sure it’s legal to bury them (hint: it rarely is).
• Reusable “poop cloths” exist. Yes, it’s a thing. No, it’s not for the faint of butt.

6. To Pack Out or Not?

• Some parks and alpine zones *require* you to pack out your poop using wag bags (Google it—basically doggie bags for humans, but NASA-approved).
• It’s not glamorous, but neither is stepping in someone else’s business. Be a decent human.

7. Bonus Tips (For the Brave and the Backed-Up)

• Feeling blocked? Drink water and take breaks. Hiking stimulates digestion, for better or worse.
• Poop anxiety is real. Practice “the stance” at home if you’re new to trail dumps.
• Leave No Trace isn’t just a motto—it’s how we make sure nature doesn’t become a minefield of human turds.

So yeah, pooping outdoors isn’t glamorous—but it also doesn’t have to ruin your hike. With the right prep, a trowel, and some dignity-saving technique, you can handle your business and still enjoy the view.

Now go forth, brave hiker. Nature is calling—just don’t forget to bury it when it’s done.