Ansel Adams Wilderness
Ansel Adams Wilderness encompasses approximately 232,000 spectacular acres of granite peaks, steep-walled gorges and rock outcroppings. Several small glaciers cling to north and northeast facing slopes of the highest peaks. There are also a number of fairly large lakes on the eastern slope of the precipitous Ritter Range. Elevations range from 3,500 feet to 13,157 feet. The area includes approximately 350 miles of trails, including portions of the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails. Approximately 79,000 acres of the Ansel Adams Wilderness are managed by the Inyo National Forest with 152,000 acres managed by the Sierra National Forest and 750 acres managed by Devil’s Postpile National Monument.
This wilderness was originally established as the Minarets Wilderness in 1964. These "minarets", a jagged ridge of peaks known as the Ritter Range, are considered to be the one of the most spectacular massifs in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. In 1984 the California Wilderness Act enlarged the area and the name was changed to the Ansel Adams Wilderness to honor the landscape photographer. Ansel Adams is known for his photography of Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada, and his wilderness advocacy work with the Sierra Club. His photography communicated the beauty of wild places and helped develop public support for protecting wilderness across the country.
Ansel Adams Wilderness is contiguous with Yosemite National Park, John Muir Wilderness, Owens River Headwaters Wilderness and several other wilderness areas. Together, they constitute one of the largest roadless areas in the lower 48 states.
The Ansel Adams Wilderness is very heavily visited. Approximately 30 million people live within a few hours’ drive. Access routes to Yosemite National Park, as well as the iconic John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails, pass through it. High levels of use and the flux of visitors across jurisdictional boundaries require that visitors to adhere to high standards of conduct.
Before visiting, familiarize yourselves with wilderness permit requirements as well as regulations and appropriate Leave No Trace practices.
More information about John Muir Wilderness and its designating legislation can be found at wilderness.net.
Maps and guidebooks can be purchased at sierraforevor.org.