Wilderness areas are protected  for the use and enjoyment of the public, as well as to conserve resources in a natural state.  Wilderness areas are set aside to provide opportunities for primitive recreation and solitude.  Hiking, horseback riding, photography, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, skiing, bird watching, and wildlife viewing are some of the activities allowed in Wilderness areas.  Hunting and fishing are also allowed in Wilderness, except in national parks.

Mechanized vehicles are not allowed in Wilderness areas.  This includes off-road vehicles, motor bikes, and mountain bikes.  Under the Wilderness Act, mining operations and livestock grazing are permitted to continue in Wilderness areas where such operations existed prior to Wilderness designation.  Where public travel by motorboat or aircraft was established prior to wilderness designation, these methods of travel are still allowed because they were "grandfathered in."