Eastern wilderness users: perceptions from two small wilderness areas

This study explores perceptions of wilderness recreationists in the eastern United States, with a focus on definitions of wilderness areas and factors that may decrease enjoyment of the wilderness experience. The eventual aim is to compare these data with information collected from wilderness users in the western United States. The few studies performed on this comparison over the past 25 years have produced inconsistent results and indicated a need for more research. This survey was conducted at wilderness areas in the Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania.