So what exactly is Wilderness?
To become a designated Wilderness Area, the United States Congress must pass a law consistent with the Wilderness Act of 1964. The Wilderness Act defines what lands qualify for Wilderness designation and how the lands are to be managed after designation. While awaiting designation these areas are called Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) and are managed as if they were Wilderness. Activities that are allowed in designated wilderness include hunting, fishing, backpacking, horsepacking, hiking, rafting, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, birdwatching and other similar activities. In order to protect these special lands and the solitude they provide, mining, drilling, road building, motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment (including mountain bikes), are not allowed. However, wheel chairs, and measures necessary to control fire and insect outbreaks, or to respond to search and rescue needs and other emergencies are allowed.

Designated Wilderness Areas protect:

  * Backcountry recreation: As our state continues to grow, becoming increasingly filled with homes, roads and traffic, access to quiet, pristine places to backpack, hike, horseback ride, hunt, fish and paddle is more important than ever. Lands protected as wilderness are permanently available for the backcountry recreation that clears the head and enriches the heart.

  * Cultural resources: Colorado is rich in artifacts from our state's past residents. Designating wilderness protects many of the remaining treasure troves of past cultures for future generations to enjoy.

  * Water quality: With increasing demand and dwindling supplies, ensuring Colorado's water quality is a top priority. Wilderness protection guarantees that the watersheds that feed our state's cities and towns will stay clean and clear.

  * Wildlife habitat: Colorado's wildlife relies on wild places for food, water and shelter. Wilderness protection ensures that the deer and elk, falcons and eagles, marmots and mice, and bears and mountain lions will have the habitat they need to thrive.