Until not so long ago, the word "wilderness" did not have any meaning: people lived close to the nature, not by choice but simply because there was no other way. People were part of the nature, like many of us are now part of the city. Native Americans were drawn to Yosemite by practical considerations, not by the beauty of the mountains or the appeal of great climbing opportunities, and the proposition of a stroll to enjoy the landscapes would seem odd at best, as odd as the notion that nature should be devoid of any sign of human activity to be enjoyed.
Much of this is actually still true for those who live in countrysides (or poorer countries) and not in the comfort of modern cities.
