Wilderness
The Wilderness Act of 1964 defines Wilderness as “an area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.” The Act’s purpose is to preserve and protect the natural ecosystems and wild areas and also provide opportunities for solitude and retrospective or primitive recreation.
In the Pacific Northwest, the Forest Service manages 66 Wilderness areas that encompass 4.6 million acres. These regional Wilderness areas provide:
- Opportunities for solitude, personal challenge, and self discovery
- Protection for volcanic peaks and unique geology of the Cascade Range
- Safeguarding of important water sources, such as glaciers, lakes and streams, at higher elevations
- Conservation of unique biological ecosystems and old growth forests
Visiting Wilderness
Spending time in Wilderness comes with the responsibility for developing outdoor skills required in a remote, rugged, and primitive setting. In return, spending time in Wilderness reminds us of our deep connection with nature and helps keep our lives and perspectives in balance.
Wilderness requires sustained commitment and careful stewardship by the Forest Service, visitors, and the public to insure its remarkable resources and values remain for future generations.
To ensure that the remarkable resources and values of Wilderness endure, special regulations apply. Always practice Leave No Trace techniques to help keep these areas wild, clean, and safe. Please do your part and take a personal role in preserving these special places.
Explore a National Interactive Wilderness Map
View an interactive map of Wilderness areas of the United States and look for unique destinations near you.
Wilderness: Know Before You Go
What is the current fire danger? Are there current campfire restrictions in place? During times of high wildfire danger, campfires may temporarily be prohibited.
Are there any fire closures or restrictions in the area? During or after a wildfire, temporary closures may be in place. Closed areas may have unstable soils, falling-rocks, or fire-weakened trees.
Does the area you are visiting allow campfires? Campfires are prohibited in many high-use, sub-alpine and alpine wilderness areas. If campfires are not allowed, understand the alternatives to wood campfires. Do you have a camp stove or other alternative to provide a fuel/heat source?
Do you have the correct recreation pass? Many trailheads require recreation passes. You can purchase passes online, at most forest service offices, or from private retailers.
What wilderness permit will you need? Does it need to be reserved in advance? Research and request the proper wilderness permit. Wilderness permits may be required for day use or overnight camping. Most permits are free and can be filled out at the trailhead. However, for some popular wilderness areas permits must be reserved in advance.
Is there a group size limit? Generally, groups are limited to no more than 12 people and 12 head of stock. Check the specific area you are traveling to for group size limits. If you have more than 12 people, groups must be totally separated (out-of-sight and sound) from the other group at all times.
Leave your bikes, drones, and motorized equipment at home. The use of motorized and mechanized equipment is prohibited in wilderness areas. This includes: vehicles, bicycles, motorcycles/ATVS/OHVS, motorboats, chainsaws, carts or wagons, and drones. Persons requiring wheelchairs are allowed to use non-motorized equipment for mobility.
Leave the fireworks at home. Possession and/or use of fireworks or other explosives is prohibited on national forest lands.
Have a plan and communicate it. Make sure that more than one responsible person knows your plans. They need to know where you are going, parking, and hiking; which vehicle you are taking; who is with you; and most importantly when you plan to return.
Know current conditions and your limits when choosing a location. This includes evaluating physical strength and stamina, time available, difficulty of terrain, elevation gain, time of year, and trail conditions.
Plan for emergencies. Do not rely on a rescue. A rescue may be difficult or impossible due to weather conditions or terrain. Carry first aid gear and other emergency or self-rescue equipment.
Don’t rely on your devices. Cell reception is not reliable in wilderness areas. In an emergency you may not be able to call for help. If you rely on GPS for navigation, always have a paper map and compass as a backup. Know how to read the map and use the compass to know where you’re going and how to get there.
The 10 Essentials are a collection of first aid and emergency items that can help you in the event of minor injuries, sudden weather changes, or unexpected delays.
The 10 Essentials are organized into ten categories, or systems :
NAVIGATION – Map, compass, and GPS system
Navigation systems are used when planning your route before your trip, and when you need help orienting yourself in your surroundings during your activity. Know how to use a topographical or relief map as well as your compass or GPS unit before going out.
SUN PROTECTION – Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat
Sun protection is necessary to protect your skin and eyes against harsh UV rays that are responsible for sunburns and skin cancer. Consider using sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats. Sun-protection clothing such as pants and long sleeve shirts can also help minimize your exposure to the sun.
INSULATION – Jacket, hat, gloves, rain shell, and thermal underwear
Nature is unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. Pack an extra layer of clothing that reflects the most extreme conditions you could encounter.
ILLUMINATION – Flashlight, lanterns, and headlamp
Lighting is indispensable in the outdoors where no conventional light sources can be found. Items include flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps. Headlamps are the preferred light source because they are hands-free. Be sure to pack extra batteries.
FIRST-AID SUPPLIES – First Aid Kit
Be prepared for emergencies by packing first-aid supplies with you. Start with a pre-made kit and modify it to fit your trip and your medical needs. Check the expiration date on all items and replace them as needed. Consider including an emergency guide in case you are faced with an unfamiliar medical emergency.
FIRE – Matches, lighter and fire starters
Fire can be an emergency signal and a heat source for cooking and staying warm. Pack matches (preferably waterproof) and fire starters - items that catch fire quickly and sustain a flame (e.g. lighter). Familiarize yourself with the fire regulations before heading out.
REPAIR KIT AND TOOLS – Duct tape, knife, screwdriver, and scissors
Carry a basic repair kit with you to help repair equipment. The kit should include items such as duct tape, a knife, and scissors. Consider packing a multi-tool, a compact version of many tools that can include a knife, screwdriver, can opener, etc. Be sure to bring any tools specific to your trip and your activity.
NUTRITION - Food
You should always be prepared for the possibility of changes to your trip plans. Pack an extra day's supply of food, preferably no-cook items that have good nutritional value in order to keep your energy high. Salty and easy to digest snacks (e.g. trail mix, nuts, and granola bars) work well for outdoor activities.
HYDRATION – Water and water treatment supplies
Staying hydrated on your trip is of utmost importance! Physical activity increases your risk of dehydration (loss of water and salts from the body), which can lead to negative health consequences. If you’re active outdoors (hiking, biking, running, swimming, etc.), especially in hot weather, you should drink water often and before you feel thirsty. Prepare your water before you need it and do not allow yourself to become dehydrated. Before heading out on your trip, be sure to identify if there are any bodies of water at your destination that you could collect water from and treat using your water treatment supplies.
EMERGENCY SHELTER – Tent, space blanket, tarp, and bivy
Shelter is one of the most important elements during an emergency survival situation. It can protect you from severe weather conditions and exposure to the elements. A tent, tarp, bivy sack, or emergency space blanket are all light weight options for emergency shelter.