WILDERNESS is . . .

The FREEDOM to experience true wildness . . . to hear only nature’s music . . . to study the little secrets of the natural world . . . and to enjoy the quiet and solitude so rare in the stressful life we now live.

The CHALLENGE to learn and respect wild country . . . to be self-reliant . . . to take your time . . . to test your physical abilities . . . to courteously share the last blank spots on the map with others . . . and to fully enjoy your wilderness experience while leaving no trace of your passing.

The OPPORTUNITY to discover why wilderness is priceless . . . to see the threats to your wilderness . . . to decide to devote part of yourself to preserving it . . . and to encourage others to do the same.

—Bill Schneider

The Teton Range from Schwabacker’s Landing. National Park Service