yes. They will ask if you have a bear canister once you're out there, too. You can rent one through Yosemite & return it by mail at the end of your trip although I would buy one if you ever plan on going backpacking in a major US Park (http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/bearcanrentals.htm)

http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sierra/publications/pdfs/rogs/ansel-adams2006.pdf speaks in general about bear cannisters - they are required, they may be rented. I would like to note the gentlemen "above" is speaking about his 400. The 500 is a totally different animal. I would suggest calling "Ansel Adams" about this matter at 559-877-2218 or 760-924-5500. All this being said, I would guess that if the 500 is conditionally approved at Yosemite, it is probably conditionally approved in Ansel Adams as well, as many people cross back and forth between its shared border.

Yes, you won't have any problems using this at Inyo. I love mine (BV400) since I can actually see my food and not have to un-pack the entire thing to find what I want as opposed to the ever popular and omnipresent Backpacker's Cache.You won't be disappointed.To the best of knowledge, this device is approved in all national parks & certainly national forests.