The term LEAVING FOOTPRINTS ON can be summarized by the crossword solution TRACKING, which is an 8-letter word. TRACKING is the act of following a path or trail, usually with the intention of finding something or someone. It is often used in the context of hunting, but it can also refer to the act of monitoring the movements of an animal or person. In this case, the term LEAVING FOOTPRINTS ON is referring to the act of leaving a trail that can be followed.