In 1964, the United States Congress passed the hallmark Wilderness Act. The idea of designating areas as Wilderness enjoyed overwhelming support – of the 474 Senators and Representatives then, only 13 voted against it. Since 1964, more than 100 million acres have been added to the National Wilderness Preservation System.

When a Wilderness Area is created, several land management issues are clarified, namely that the designated area will be managed to retain its primitive and wild character. While Wilderness does not allow motorized transportation or equipment, it is open to the public and encouraged to be enjoyed. As the Wilderness Act states, “wilderness areas shall be devoted to the public purposes of recreational, scenic, scientific, educational, conservation, and historical use.”

Whether you enjoy hiking, horse-packing, photography, exploring, or just knowing that wild places still exist, Wilderness ensures that a place remains where the imprint of humans is largely unnoticeable. North of Ruby Road, which runs roughly southeast-northwest, outlines the bulk of the proposed Wilderness. To the south of Ruby Road, the proposed area will mostly surround the existing Pajarito Wilderness. View the maps here.

Only Congress reserves the right to designate Wilderness. Therefore, a congressional bill will accomplish our goal to protect this magnificent Tumacacori Highland wilderness for this and generations to come.