Contact Info
The University of Montana
Missoula, MT 59812
- Phone:
- 406-243-6933
Description
The Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness now contains a total of 943,626 acres and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Montana contains approximately 920,343 acres. Wyoming contains approximately 23,283 acres.
Public land becomes wilderness through legislation passed by the United States Congress in the form of public laws. For the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, this process began in 1978 when 904,500 acres were designated by Public Law 95-249. The following public laws also affect the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness: 98-140, 98-550.
The Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness is part of the 106 million acre National Wilderness Preservation System. This System of wild lands contributes significantly to the ecological, economic, and social health of our country. Wilderness provides clean air and water, a shelter for endangered species, sacred places for indigenous peoples, a living laboratory for research, and a classroom for exploring personal values while experiencing risk, reward, and self-reliance. In wilderness, you can enjoy challenging recreational activities like hiking, backpacking, climbing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, horse packing, bird watching, stargazing, and extraordinary opportunities for solitude.
Details
Additional Details:
Unless otherwise specified, no motorized equipment or mechanical transport is allowed. This is true for all federal lands managed as designated wilderness.
Leave No Trace principles:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
