A wilderness is supposed to be a place where nature, not man, influences the landscape and biotic order. But even in the wilds, trails and other evidence of man's intrusion, remind us that legislation and decrees alone cannot keep areas pristine. It takes individual commitment. With more than 120 color photos and text based on combined 70 or more years of exploring Arizona, the authors explain why we need wild places where we will not see houses, cars, fences, roads, or even trails - no trace of human interference.

They hope that portraying the wondrous legacy nature bestowed on Arizona will gently focus attention on the fact that we are losing it and the need to protect it for future generations. Their concern traces to the first Europeans to enter Arizona - members of Coronado's expedition searching for fabled cities glittering with gold. In this book the true gold is exhibited and shared with those who wish to see it and visit it. The images and words are used to inspire those who have not been here before.