I Didn't Know That!: Wilderness 101

What is a wilderness area? 

The Wilderness Act of 1964 established the National Wilderness Preservation System, a network of individual wilderness areas on federal public lands. Designating these lands as wilderness areas provides the highest level of protection and can only be done through an act of Congress. Today, the National Wilderness Preservation System protects over 111 million acres of land.

Wilderness stewardship builds upon the ongoing relationship of shared connections between people and the land. It’s important to recognize and respect the rich cultural traditions of indigenous people, and later immigrants, with these lands that existed long before national parks and wilderness areas.

Did you know? 

The term "wilderness character”, first referenced in the 1964 Wilderness Act, is the defining attribute that makes federal wilderness unique and distinct from other public lands. Wilderness character is based on intangible qualities like a sense of adventure, inspiration, or relaxation. Wilderness character also includes five tangible qualities associated with the biophysical environment:

• Natural Quality 
• Untrammeled Quality 
• Undeveloped Quality 
• Opportunities for Solitude or Primitive of Unconfined Recreation 
• Other Features of Value

Hikers enjoy the scenic views of the Buffalo National River Wilderness.

Photo by Jeff Rose

Did You Know?

You can access wilderness from your wheelchair. Learn more in the I Didn't Know That! Wilderness For all article.

Know Before You Go

Preserving wilderness character includes providing opportunities for people to connect with wilderness. The options for getting out and exploring NPS wilderness are as diverse as the landscapes these places help to protect and the people who visit. There are many opportunities to explore wilderness: hiking, climbing, paddling, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, skiing, snowshoeing and more.

And if you’re unable to visit a wilderness area, you can explore these areas online and appreciate wilderness benefits from afar.

What You Can Do 

We need your help to preserve wilderness character and protect wilderness areas! Help us steward these special places by coming prepared for your next wilderness visit and practicing Leave No Trace when you’re out there. Check out the wilderness park’s website to learn more about trip planning and other steps to be ready for your time in the wild!

Pass It On! 

Did you learn something new? Pass it on! Having positive experiences in NPS wilderness areas is something we hope everyone can enjoy. That’s why sharing your knowledge and experience with others is so important! The next time you hear someone ask why wilderness is important, you can fill them in and assure them it’s ok to admit - “I didn’t know that!” 

Download or screenshot this card to share with a friend.

Want to learn more about Wilderness in National Parks? Visit the Wilderness subject site.

Check out other I Didn't Know That! topics.

Text Description of Infographic

I Didn't Know That! Wilderness 101

Over 80 percent of all NPS lands are managed as wilderness.

The concept of wilderness character distinguishes wilderness from other lands. 

The term "wilderness character" is a holistic concept based on the interaction of the biophysical environment, personal experiences, and symbolic meaning.

What you can do:

• Plan ahead: Visit your park's website to learn about trip options and conditions.
• Enjoy wilderness: Choose an adventure that suits you and remember to Leave No Trace!
• Share the experience: Share your knowledge to inspire others and help protect wilderness for the future.

go.nps.gov/idkt