Ansel Adams Wilderness

Ansel Adams Wilderness is a protected area in the Sierra Nevada of California, spanning 93,000 hectares between Sierra and Inyo National Forests. Granite peaks alternate with alpine meadows, while glacial lakes rest between the ridges.

The area was created in 1964 as Minarets Wilderness, protecting these high mountain ranges for the first time. Twenty years later it received its current name in honor of the photographer and conservationist.

Named after Ansel Adams, whose black-and-white photographs of the Sierra Nevada became symbols of American conservation. Hikers today follow the same trails he documented with his camera.

A permit is required between May and October, which should be requested in advance. Summer temperatures range from 57 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit (14 to 32 degrees Celsius), though nights can be cool even in July.

Mount Ritter rises above 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) and displays dark metavolcanic rock shaped by glaciers. Glaciers themselves are still active here, though they have shrunk in recent decades.

Location: California

Inception: September 3, 1964

Operator: US Forest Service;National Park Service

Shares border with: John Muir Wilderness, Yosemite Wilderness, Owens River Headwaters Wilderness

Website: https://sierrawild.gov/wilderness/ansel-adams

GPS coordinates: 37.68330,-119.18300

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28