Historically, wilderness has been defined as an area where man has not trampled, built, or modified the landscape. Wilderness has many different uses, including recreation, wildlife protection, and scientific research.
The 1964 Wilderness Act created the National Wilderness Preservation System. The system initially designated nine million acres of wilderness. This system has grown to include 110 million acres of federally protected wilderness areas.
The Wilderness Act defines wilderness as an area of land that is not developed with permanent roads or mechanically improved roads. Wilderness also includes untrammeled land not for sale, and is free from industrial infrastructure. It also prohibits motorized equipment.
Wilderness areas provide clean air, solitude, and recreation opportunities. These benefits are important to all Americans. The Wilderness Specialist Group defines wilderness management guidelines. The group is also part of the World Commission on Protected Areas.
Wilderness areas are also important educational sites. Students and teachers can learn about nature, ecology, and conservation through field trips in wilderness areas.
Many people visit wilderness areas for the aesthetic value of the land. Other people visit wilderness areas for spiritual connection. People also visit wilderness areas to escape the fast-paced, industrialized society.
Some people visit wilderness areas for fun with friends. However, human activity on the edge of a wilderness area can also have an impact on the interior. Human activities on the margins of a wilderness area may prevent animals from migrating, or may interfere with the pollination of certain plants.