How are motorized and mechanized access restricted in wilderness?
The Wilderness Act prohibits use of motorized/mechanized equipment and general access by motor vehicles and mechanical transport such as mountain bikes. However, the law makes exceptions for situations such as search and rescue operations, fire fighting to protect adjacent private lands, and insect and disease control. Grazing permittees are allowed to use motorized vehicles to rescue livestock, and the occasional use of motorized equipment is allowed to fix fences and maintain springs and livestock dams. Additionally, private inholders are guaranteed reasonable access to their land.
