Formerly the Minarets Wilderness, it was expanded and renamed to the Ansel Adams Wilderness as a result of the Wilderness Act of 1984. It honors the famous photographer and environmentalist, Ansel Adams. Not surprisingly, this area is the popular subject of photographers. 1,000 Island Lake, Garnet Lake, and Banner and Ritter Peaks are all frequent subjects of high Sierra photographs.
The wilderness is a rugged area that includes the high country east of the Sierra crest. It also contains the North Fork, Middle Fork and lower South Fork San Joaquin River, spectacular alpine scenery, and deep granite-walled gorges. There is a variety of wildlife and fish. The wilderness is the summer range for deer. Elevations range from 7,000 to 14,000 feet, with the central part of the wilderness containing many lakes, most filled with trout. Both the Pacific Crest and John Muir trails go through this wonderful Wilderness.