Backcountry Recreation Management

Definitions

Backcountry: As used by the NPS, this term refers generically to "primitive, undeveloped portions of parks" (Management Policies 8.2.2.4). Developments within backcountry areas are generally limited to trails, unpaved roads, and administrative facilities associated with dispersed recreational use. Dispersed recreational use is the most prevalent human use in backcountry areas, although research activities may also occur.

Wilderness: Any NPS backcountry areas which have been specifically designated as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System or any other area that has been determined to posses the characteristics of wilderness as defined by Section 2 ( c) of the Wilderness Act. This includes lands which are administratively classified as "potential wilderness," "proposed wilderness," "recommended wilderness," "suitable wilderness," and "wilderness study areas." Approximately 83% of the National Park Service is encumbered with wilderness lands and must be administered in keeping with the requirements of NPS Management Policies (Chapter 6, Wilderness Preservation and Management) and Director's Order #41: Wilderness Preservation and Management. NPS managers need to be able to clearly distinguish the difference between backcountry resources and wilderness resources.