Wilderness · California
Ansel Adams Wilderness
The jagged Ritter Range and Thousand Island Lake
TypeWilderness
StateCalifornia
Best seasonSummer & early fall
Don’t missThousand Island Lake
Named for the photographer who made it famous — a high Sierra wilderness of dark, dramatic peaks mirrored in dozens of lakes, just south of Yosemite. The John Muir and Pacific Crest trails run right through.
What to see
- Thousand Island Lake
- Banner & Ritter Peaks
- Garnet Lake
- Shadow Lake
- Devils Postpile nearby
On public wild lands, services are sparse and conditions change fast — check the managing agency (Forest Service / BLM / Park Service) for road and seasonal closures, fire restrictions, and any permits before you go, and pack out what you pack in.
Build a trip around wild places like this.
Roamward turns spots like this into a real road trip on your phone — the scenic drive, the stops, and the detours, planned around the vibe you’re after. Get early access: