Year:
2012
Publication type:
Proceedings (P)
Primary Station(s):
Rocky Mountain Research Station
Source:
In: Cole, David N., comp. Wilderness visitor experiences: Progress in research and management; 2011 April 4-7; Missoula, MT. Proc. RMRS-P-66. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station p. 70-76.
Description
Wilderness areas provide a sanctuary from human domination, for the plants and animals that exist there and also for the visitors who come there to escape the demands and pressures of modern society. As a place of refuge and sanctuary, we have found wilderness to allow experiences of connection, engagement and belonging. Two studies help illustrate the role of wildness (freedom from intentional human control) in wilderness, one focusing on gendered experiences of wilderness and another considering spiritual experiences in wilderness. Following the intent of Howard Zahniser, architect of the Wilderness Act of 1964, we call on managers to maintain the freedom and wildness of wilderness, lightening the burden on nature and on the experience of nature.
Parent Publication
Citation
Borrie, William T.; Meyer, Angela M.; Foster, Ian M.; Hall, David E. 2012. Wilderness experiences as sanctuary and refuge from society. In: Cole, David N., comp. Wilderness visitor experiences: Progress in research and management; 2011 April 4-7; Missoula, MT. Proc. RMRS-P-66. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station p. 70-76.