The practice of building cairns—or stacking rocks into “signposts” in wilderness areas—is not new. In fact, it’s a tradition that dates to ancient times and has significance to many cultures. But now it’s being decried by environmentalists and park rangers. This is because it can be detrimental to life forms and natural land drainage patterns. It also seems to fly in the face of “leave no trace” camping.
Though rock stacking seems like it may be a harmless way to leave a mark on nature, critics of rock stacking believe it signals a disturbing lack of concern about the natural environment. Particularly for the future of fragile ecosystems.
Here’s why it matters, according to naturalists and those who are charged with keeping parks and public spaces healthy and as pristine as possible. Read more Rock Stacking: Modern Art or Destructive Graffiti?