Through Project Remote, we are documenting the remotest location in each state…But this is just the beginning. We would like to collect data from all the large, roadless areas in our country. And we can’t do it alone! Here’s how you can get involved…
Select a Remote Area
We have calculated the remotest location of designated Wilderness Areas across the country. Search the list, chose the Wilderness Area you would like to visit, then head out on your adventure to conduct a Remote Spot Assessment! Below you will find instructions. You can also read Rebecca’s blog post about what we do when we get to a Remote Spot.
Conduct a Remote Spot Assessment
- Use a GPS to navigate to the Remote Spot
- Record elevation and general description of location
- Take photographs in the four cardinal directions while standing on the Remote Spot
- Record a 360 degree video standing on the Remote Spot – recording should be about 1 minutes long
- Record a 5 min video, with the camera pointing to an area of your choice, such that you are recording the sounds of remoteness (i.e. be silent!)
- For exactly 15 minutes, observe your surroundings looking and listening for any signs of human presence – usually this comes in the form of airplanes and contrails but can be anything from cell towers to road noise to litter.
- Send us your data and any photos/stories of your experience and we’ll post them on our website.
Materials Needed
Navigation Skills – this project is not for those with beginner-level outdoor experience. You will need to have a good sense of direction and skills to handle river crossings, steep or unstable terrain, low visibility, tidal changes, inclement weather, and other unexpected situations.
- GPS – with coordinates loaded in
- Camera
- Tripod (helpful but not necessary)
- Notebook/pens
- Backup batteries for all devices