The Bishop Blog
Plan a long weekend getaway with our Bishop adventure blog, featuring outdoor escapes off the beaten path, where to stay, and where to eat.
The Weird and Wonderful Side of California
Road Trip! Pick your path along US Highway 395, from Los Angeles to Bishop and little beyond, where you will see some of the most curious, grotesque, mysterious and awe-inspiring features of nature and feats of humankind. The Eastern Sierra is often referred to as “the other side of California,” and these places might also make it “the weird side of California.”
Bishop Weekly Fly Fishing Report
Updated 10-8-2021 The first storm of the winter season, even though it’s Fall, is headed to the Eastern Sierra this weekend. We need all the precipitation we can get. Eastern Sierra streams and lakes are at their lowest levels of the year. Hatches are moving to more of a midday time frame. You do not need to be in a hurry to get on the water.
Fabulous Fall Fun in the Eastern Sierra
Fall in the Eastern Sierra begins with an almost imperceptible change and the air feels refreshingly smooth and silky on the skin. A magical light has a clarity and crispness that brings colors into brighter focus. Lethargy is replaced by energy and, although the days...
Activities During Inyo National Forest Closure
The following represents options to give guests when the Inyo National Forest is closed to visitor use. The list below describes alternative outdoor opportunities which and indoor use when the wind shifts and is too smoky to be outdoors due to wildfire activity. In...
Pick Your Path
With so much to discover in the lower 48, we rarely go back time after time to the same destination. But when an area has as much to discover as Bishop, California, it’s easy to book a return trip. This small town with a regional population of 10,000 is nestled in between the Sierra Nevada and White Mountains on the eastern side of the Golden State. Not to be confused with a road-side pitstop on the way to Yosemite National Park, Bishop is a year-round outdoor mecca that knows how to keep its locals and tourists busy.
Wähle deinen Pfad in Bishop, Kalifornien
Da es in den Lower 48 so viel zu entdecken gibt, kehren wir nur selten immer wieder an dasselbe Ziel zurück. Aber wenn es in einer Gegend so viel zu entdecken gibt wie in Bishop, Kalifornien, dann fällt es leicht, eine erneute Reise zu buchen. Diese kleine Stadt mit...
Hidden Stories of the Eastern Sierra
Guests who have grown to love Bishop often desire to take a deep dive into the diversity of the Eastern Sierra’s treasures. The compilation below consolidates the area’s richness in one easy to find location. Nothing like this exists either in the digital domain or in print. It is a unique, one of a kind, compendium that will keep you entertained for many days. The following assemblage provides digital links to stories about the Eastern Sierra via videos, slide shows, cinematic films, podcasts, and documents immersing you into the area’s natural history on a grand scale.
Waterfalls of the Eastern Sierra
The sound and scene of flowing water, particularly when it’s falling over a rocky cliff or cascading down a rocky chute, instills a sense of wonder and peace. We’ve created an extensive guide to show where each of the noteworthy falls is located and how best to see, photograph, and get near them. Some of our beautiful falls can be seen from vista points along mountain roads that will take you well into the alpine and sub-alpine regions of the Sierra Nevada. Many more can only be seen from hiking trails within our national forest and wilderness areas. A visit to a wild and scenic waterfall in the Sierra Nevada is an extraordinary experience.
2 Days. 2 Nights. 20 Iconic Images.
The Eastern Sierra is one of the most photographed regions in California. It’s a land of contrasts and opportunity. There are obvious and well-known scenes and settings, and there are hidden gems. If a photograph is worth a thousand words, here’s a challenge to create a visual story worth 20,000 words.
The challenge is #2days20photos
Bishop Spring Fishing Report
Wind has been relentless this last week. Mornings have been fishable before the winds pick up in the afternoon. So far this has been a very windy spring. Insects are hatching and fishing has been good when you can get a cast and a drag free drift. Lower Owens River...
Boating Safety Guide
Safe boating messages prior to the busy Memorial Day holiday and the unofficial launch of the summer boating season.
Horsing around in Bishop – Rodeo season is here!
Mark your calendar for the second week in June. California High School State Championships are in Bishop, California highlighting Barrel Racing, Polebending, Goat Tying, Breakaway, Queen, Team Roping, Cutting and Reined Cow Horse for girls. Boys compete in Tie Down Roping, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, Cutting, Reined Cow Horse, Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding and Bareback Riding.
How a Small Town Survives a Pandemic
On a windy February evening, Lauren Robinson and I donned our winter hats and took a walk on the canals. Lauren is the owner of Sierra Shanti, Bishop’s very own yoga and wellness studio. I’ve been taking classes at Sierra Shanti since it opened in 2013. When classes went online at the start of the first shutdown, I found solace in a familiar ritual. While the cows milled around us and the sun set behind the Sierra, Lauren told me what it’s been like keeping her business afloat, and what the future holds for Sierra Shanti.
Bloodmoon: A Full Lunar Eclipse
Immerse yourself in this celestial experience. Observers throughout most of the country will get a partial eclipse, where Earth’s shadow slowly darkens the moon’s surface in the early morning hours on May 26.
Up and Down California in 1860-1864
The Sierra Nevada catches all the rains and clouds from the west—to the east are deserts—so, of course, this valley sees but little rain, but where streams come down from the Sierra they spread out and great meadows of green grass occur. Tens of thousands of the starving cattle of the state have been driven in here this year, and there is feed for twice as many more. Yet these meadows comprise not over one-tenth of the valley—the rest is desert. At the base of the mountains, on either side, the land slopes gradually up as if to meet them. This slope is desert, sand, covered with boulders, and supporting a growth of desert shrub
Dispatch from a Clear Day
Read local writer, Kendra Atleework’s recent writing about living in 2020 in the Eastern Sierra, where smoke and COVID-19 bring challenges, but also inspiration.
The Kindness of Strangers in a Crisis
Here are some touching stories from local community members rising above, rallying volunteers, and making generous financial gifts. Let’s do our part to help keep our community stay open by wearing masks upon entering any and all businesses. #keepinyoopen #keepbishopopen
Returning to the Outdoors!
Who has the Right of Way? Camping, hiking, biking and other outdoor activities offer the ability to self-isolate, social distance, and get outdoors. Outdoor activities, whether it be exercise or recreation, are proven to reduce stress and anxiety levels and can be very refreshing for the soul.
Natural (Virtual) History tour of the Eastern Sierra
Our world is a world of wonder. Our big backyard is especially wonderful.
There are few places in the world where evidence of the natural history of a region is more obvious and interesting than in the Eastern Sierra. The forces that have shaped our world have produced an astonishing assortment of observable characteristics that give us insight into the creation of this part of our planet. Visit us virtually. Our Natural History page is an exploration into many of the most fascinating features of the Eastern Sierra landscape.
Choose Your Own Adventure
Somewhere in a season or on the cusp between two seasons is that special moment in time that stirs weather patterns deep inside and fulfills your inner awe. It is unique to you. In Bishop, we call it the 5th Season. Take a virtual tour through pages of unique adventures and find a trail, or stream, a waterfall, a vista, or a road to ride that takes you to the essence of you.
Blake Jones Raffle Winners
Winners Announced for 2020 Blake Jones Trout Derby – Bishop Chamber Thankful for Community Support! The 52nd annual Blake Jones Trout Derby is “in the books” and considering the challenging circumstances presented by Coronavirus, organizers have deemed it a success! In order to reduce risk to derby attendees, staff and volunteers, the Chamber cancelled the weigh-in and prize party and put all entries into one big raffle. “The fish had been stocked and prizes had been gathered,” explains Chamber Event Coordinator April Leeson. “We knew people wanted to fish and they love a chance to win prizes. We’re grateful we were able to modify this year’s event at the last minute.” 339 people entered this year’s contest.
Cycling the Eastern Sierra
We believe there is no other place on earth that offers as much opportunity to cycle year-round in one of the most topographically diverse and beautiful regions in our country. Our paved roads are lightly trafficked and a road cyclist can ride for many, many miles without encountering a traffic light or a stop sign. The abundance of dirt trails and tracks is almost endless with access to mountain biking rides ranging from super easy and leisurely, to highly technical and challenging — and everything in between.
Here’s why!
The 7 Wonders of the High Sierra
California’s High Sierra has some spectacular natural wonders and this article highlights jus a few: Emerald Bay, Yosemite Valley, the Giant Sequoias, KIng’s Canyon, Mono Lake, the Moaning Cavern, and the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. If you haven’t visited, these might have to go on your bucket list!
Ghost Mine in the Sky
A look into the Pine Creek Tungsten Mine in Bishop, CA. Once, four hundred miners pulled tungsten from these mountains, working in three shifts, the Pine Creek Mine churning away twenty-four hours a day. It was known as the Mine in the Sky.
Art Matters in Bishop
Art is inherent in everything we do during the holidays. Better yet, it is also part of our daily lives throughout the year and shapes us individuals and a community. Bishop is one of the many small towns across the USA that has come to epitomize cultural coolness with a sense of family values.
There’s always something artistic, creative, and inspiring to enjoy in Bishop. Read the blog and check out our comprehensive Art Guide.
Nature! The Natural Healer.
It’s proven. Nature is flat out good medicine!
Each time we visit a natural environment we benefit as individuals. We have fun. We learn. We relax and de-stress. We get exercise. We get solitude and we can make positive social connections.
We have a wonderful, wild, big backyard here in the Eastern Sierra and we’re committed to caring for it. Please join us! Be part of protecting and preserving our public lands.
Take Bishop’s Big Backyard Pledge…
Bishop. The Warm Winter Wonderland.
Bishop is an all-season wonderland. Each season has its own special look and feel that brings joy and offers experiences like nowhere else on earth. And winter … winter is a true, classic wonderland! Our town is warm and welcoming and our big backyard is wild and exciting.
Stop in Bishop. Stay in Bishop. Play in Bishop and in our big backyard.
California’s Biggest Playground Also Has a Great Downtown
If you're outdoorsy like myself, then Bishop, California is one of those fairytale destinations. You might be rock climbing in the morning and mountain biking by the afternoon. The trail options are limitless, and I bet that even the multi-generational locals won't...
3 Things Pet-Parents Must Do In Bishop
If you’re a pet parent, one of the first things you’ll want to know about an area before you pay it a visit, is whether it is pet friendly or not. We know that your dog is a part of your family, and when you travel to new places you want to bring him with you to...
The Magic and Mystery of Fall
Bishop’s big backyard has one of the most enchanting fall color seasons in California. It is long, it is vibrant, and it’s easily accessible. Drive, hike, or bike the many roads and trails and immerse yourself in the magic and mystery of fall in the Eastern Sierra.
Keough’s Hot Springs Celebrates 100 Years!!
Locals and visitors have flocked to Keough's Hot Springs for one hundred years to enjoy the relaxing, healing waters. In August 1919, Phillip Keough, an Eastern Sierra pioneer, leader in civic affairs, and owner of the City Market in Bishop, purchased the property and...
Fall Colors According to a Local Teen
We walked about half of a mile on a dusty dirt road before we even stepped onto the trailhead. Upon entering the trail, I instantaneously felt a sense of wonder. There was a blanket of yellow leaves on the trail, guiding the way. Aspen trees gently encompassed our path, and the faint sound of a trickling stream was audible. In a single file line, we started our trek to the lake.
Create Your Special Event in Bishop
If you are planning a special event take a look at Bishop. We have incredible venues where you can create your dream event. Bishop is in one of the most beautiful parts of our country and our region has an incredibly diverse range of settings and seasonal options.
Bishop is where wishes come true and beautiful memories are made.
Stargazing in the Eastern Sierra
Did you know that there are countless children and adults who have never seen the Milky Way? Experts say that 80% of North Americans can no longer see the Milky Way from where they live due to light pollution.
We believe everyone should have the opportunity to see, at least once in a lifetime, the amazing spectacle of the Milky Way and an intensely sparkling, starry night sky.
The heart of the Eastern Sierra is perfectly situated for a brilliant night sky experience. Take a look at our interactive night sky page and plan your trip now.
Another Woman’s Treasure: Amy Wicks’ Climbing Rope Art
Check it out in the park, Saturday April 20! By Kendra Atleework When I first met Amy Wicks, we were mostly upside down. There was a good reason for this—we’d both enrolled in an aerial silks class, which involves tying yourself in knots and swinging around in the...
A Morning or Afternoon in Bishop’s Big Backyard
Whether you’re a regular visitor or a traveler, you might find yourself in Bishop with a morning or an afternoon to yourself and wonder, “What should I do?”
Maybe you’d like to find something new or maybe you need to find out what you can do. We’ve created four short adventure possibilities – one for each season. So you get to try four fantastic experiences that could be the start a beautiful relationship with our big backyard.
Wildflowers in the Eastern Sierra
It’s happened again! California has had another wet winter and the Eastern Sierra has received a welcome share of rain in the valleys and snow on the mountains.
And so …
It’s happening again! Spring has sprung and some experts think we may have a super bloom.
Plan your Eastern Sierra wildflower viewing trip now!
50th Anniversary of Mule Days in Bishop
The Mule Days Celebration in Bishop is 50 years old this year! Come kick up your heels at the greatest Mule Show on Earth, May 21st – 26th, 2019. Mules are known to have more stamina, have greater patience, and live longer than horses. They require less food than a horse of similar size, are more independent, and can walk greater distances without rest. They are also said to have higher intelligence than a horse. All-in-all the mule has inherited the best of each of its equine parents. Learn about the history of this amazing animal and why it is so important to our national heritage and local culture. Learn about its significance in the Eastern Sierra, the great American west, and many places around the world. It’s all right here!
The Most Isolated Place in the World
First Place in the Mary Austin Prize for Writing contest Naiya Luna Warren Bishop High School Death Valley - full of gyrating heat waves, dusty landscapes that last an eternity contrasted with intermittent blips of apricot mallow and occasional swaths of desert gold,...
A Smorgasbord of Love on Valentine’s Day in Bishop
Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate love. Especially the love shared with a cherished partner. It’s a day to set aside time to spend with your partner and indulge a little, or a lot, in things that make you both happy. Bishop offers a unique experience for locals and visitors from near and far a chance to reconnect. It’s a wintertime playground for lovers of all ages and abilities to connect, not only with each other, but with nature. We’ve put together a Valentine’s Day itinerary for leisurely lovers and amorous adventurers of food, activity, relaxation, and gift giving. Take a look. You’ll love it!
OHV & Auto Touring in Winter in Bishop
If you are traveling the iconic US Highway 395 through the Eastern Sierra then you owe it to yourself to take an extended break in Bishop. Or, perhaps you’re looking for a great place where you can escape for a couple days and get out of the city and into the mountains. Come to Bishop. Come play in our big backyard. It has so much to offer that we want to share a suggested itinerary for auto & OHV touring in 48-hours in Bishop in winter! If that’s something you’ve never contemplated, or thought possible, then take a look at this.
The Artist Bishop Nabbed from NASA: A Conversation with Steven White Woodworking
Every night—if I want to get any sleep—I have to climb a ladder. I am not Rapunzel. I just sleep in the loft of my cottage. Descending while half-awake in the morning might seem treacherous, but the ladder I climb is a sturdy work of art. It’s the color of cherries...
Family Winter Vacation in Bishop
Bishop in winter offers the perfect family getaway. Get out of the big city and into the mountains where the snowy peaks rise up on either side of this broad, beautiful valley. The nights are chilly, the days are often warm, the air is clear and crisp, and our big backyard is a natural playground. We’ve created a suggested 5-Day adventure itinerary so you don’t need to figure it out. Just follow the links in this blog and make your bookings for your 5 days of fun.
Wonderful Winter Women’s Weekend in Bishop
When it’s time to get the girlfriends together for a long weekend of play and pampering, head for the hills. The mountains … actually!
Bishop, California is located in the heart of the Eastern Sierra in a deep valley known as the Owens Valley. It is bounded to two magnificent mountain ranges, the Sierra Nevada and the White and Inyo Mountains. We call this incredible space in and around our sweet town our ‘big backyard’ and a women’s winter weekend getaway is wildly wonderful. Take a look at this!
Why I keep coming back to Bishop, California
I'm not going to lie, I was stoked to return to Bishop, California. As in, I threw my arms around and did a little victory dance at my desk. Some places--like Bishop--just grab a hold of you, and though you're traveling, they make you feel at home. I was thrilled to...
Snowshoe in the High Sierra– 3 One-Of-A-Kind Adventures
photo credit Instagram user @jc_pascual Winter-time activities offer you clean-crisp air, snowbound vistas, lesser crowds and so much more. So, for this season, consider a snowshoe adventure in the High Sierra. Fresh snow has arrived this early season, as 50 inches or...
Fish Stocking by the Bucket
A 2007 survey by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife counted 12,000 fish per mile in Hot Creek — one of the highest densities of wild trout in California. A follow-up in 2016 indicated the number had plummeted by a staggering 92 percent. Read more about the efforts to save this terrific fishery.
Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center
The Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center is both a museum and cultural center that serves the community and safeguards its history. It is a place to preserve and tell the story of the old ways and a place for the community to come together to learn, teach and continue the traditional ways. The exhibits in the museum are beautifully illustrated snapshots of the lives…
Perfect Fall Fishing Day
Fall is here. The weather, for the most part, is perfect. Cool mornings and evenings, and great afternoons that are just warm enough to enjoy the heat. In between the nice weather is the occasional storm that reminds us that winter is on the horizon. For me this is the perfect time of the year. On the nice days I venture out to fish. On the stormy days I go looking for waterfowl. Read more…
Owens Valley Radio Observatory
2018 marks 60 years of observation at the Owens Valley Radio Observatory.
This is a truly awesome facility to visit for aspiring and current scientists, astronomers, and anyone who has a keen interest in learning about our world – especially our extra-terrestrial world.
A Guide to Cardinal Mine in Bishop Creek Canyon
The history of mining in California is long and legendary. The Cardinal Mine, located on the North Fork of Bishop Creek just above the settlement of Aspendell, is a fascinating relic of gold mining in the Eastern Sierra. This is the perfect place for families, anglers, and nature lovers to explore.
Matching the Hatch
I got into the fly-fishing industry as a fly tier. I’ve gotten good at tying exact imitations of other fly fishers fly patterns and imitating the insects found in the waters of the Eastern Sierra. I’ve also fished the major hatches in the Sierra with reliable success. Read more…
That’s Why They Call it Fishing, not Catching.
Fall is a great time to get out on the waters of the eastern Sierra for some fly fishing. Local guides are out there scouting the waters for the best fishing and can be your best resource for a good day on the water. Fred Rowe shares a day on the water last fall with us on the blog. Read more….
Notes on Home: A Villain in a Hero
On Main Street in Bishop, California, listen to the clatter of two lanes of traffic busy with horse trailers, RVs, biker gangs, and highway patrol racing after sports cars from the city. A clutch of teenagers saunters, Wrangler-ed and Stetson-ed, in town for the rodeo...
Autumn Leaf Peeping on Horseback
Can you keep a secret? We can’t either; one of the best ways to get up close and personal with fall color is from the back of a horse and that season is coming up fast. Hints of change are already starting to appear up high, and although the aspen peak won’t arrive until late September or October you can’t go wrong with the vivid blue skies of late summer coupled with the early yellow / golds of the willows and other shrubs. Read on and we’ll see you on the trails!
Laws Railroad Museum and Historic Site – Quick Guide
A visit to the Laws Railroad Museum and Historic Site is a trip back in time to experience the daily life of the early settlers of the Owens Valley. Close to 50 authentic structures on eleven acres are filled with artifacts and original objects. Take a train ride on the old Death Valley car. Enjoy colorful, period-themed events and have a happy holiday with carol singing, storytelling and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Open daily – except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Bishop Twin Movie Theater – Then and Now
Intro Now The historic Bishop Twin Movie Theater, as it stands today, has been an entertainment venue for Bishop and Eastern Sierra audiences for almost 100 years. On the outside it appears to be little changed from its beginnings in 1925, but the two theaters have...
Bishop, California: A Sancturary for birds, butterflies and bees!
Eastern Sierra Land Trust Certifies 100th Pollinator Garden Bringing Nature To Your Doorstep Eastern Sierra Land Trust (ESLT) will certify its 100th pollinator garden on August 30th to address water conservation, the importance of native plants and the rapid...
The Obsidian Trail: a glimpse into the 12,000-year history of the Owens Valley.
“The Obsidian Trail,” is a highly acclaimed half-hour documentary illuminating the prehistory of the Owens Valley in eastern California, as seen through the eyes of archaeologists, scholars, and Native Americans. The three part film (as published on YouTube) consists...
Bishop by the Water (Part 3)
Photo: @lanedumm on Instagram “If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water,” -- Loren Eiseley. Payahǖǖnadǖ. “Place of flowing water.” (Numic) The place of flowing water is the Owens Valley, as it is now more commonly known. It was once a wet, flood...
Inside on the Eastside: Top Ten Things to Do When You Can’t Be Outside
With well over 300 sunny days a year, you won't get too many chances to pull out this list, but when you need it you need it! An inside day in Bishop need not mean a day stuck in your hotel room desperately looking for something to watch on the telly - we've got ten...
How (and What) to Pack in your Daypack for an eastern Sierra hike
Cover photo by @ttloveskwi on Instagram It's hiking season in the eastern Sierra and there's nothing better than getting out on our local trails. Hundreds of miles of adventure await, with something for everyone. Whether you are looking to log in some workout miles...
Papoose Flat Quick Guide
Photo: Evan Thomas @exploreabitmore Intro Papoose Flat is known for its unique landscape of randomly isolated granite spires that dot the flat, and for the marvelous views of the Sierra Nevada crest and Owens Valley below. It is situated almost directly above Tinemaha...
Bishop by Land (Part 2)
Photo: @hatchetthejeep It may seem obvious to drive, run, walk, hike or ride in the Eastern Sierra. But do you know how much land there is to cover and how many ways there are to do it? Here’s an overview of the region to give you a sense of how much adventure awaits...
California’s Bristlecone Pines, The Oldest Living Things on Earth
By Lee FosterWhat are the oldest living things on earth? The current consensus is that they are trees, the bristlecone pines, which grow in the White Mountains of California, east from Bishop.You can easily make their acquaintance and wander amidst a group...
Bishop by Air (Part 1)
“The desire to fly is an idea handed down to us by our ancestors who... looked enviously on the birds soaring freely through space... on the infinite highway of the air.” ~ Wilbur Wright US Highway 395 is the route that most visitors drive to reach Bishop, but...
Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Thoughts on Bishop
Bishop, California, is nearby relief from hot temperatures By Deborah Wall / Special to View in the Las Vegas Review-Journal June 4, 2018 - 10:54 am Updated June 5, 2018 - 1:58 pm The granite formation of the Buttermilks near Bishop, California, are a top...
Live Like A Local. In Bishop.
“You’re so lucky to live in Bishop.” This is a phrase I hear quite often from folks who know this beautiful little town, but don’t live here …. yet! “Yes,” I agree, “I am.” The town has charm and grace, the community is hospitable and friendly, and the landscape is …...
8 Great Family Adventures in the Eastern Sierra
Photo: @autumnpaizley “I scream. You scream. We all scream for ice cream.” ~ Song Lyrics, 1927, by Howard Johnson, Billy Moll, and Robert King. When I was a child I was highly amused by this saying. I would run around saying it loudly – especially in the hopes that I...
Wildflowers of the Eastern Sierra
Photo: @okayserasera Intro Of the many magical experiences in the Eastern Sierra, the wildflower bloom is especially lovely and fascinating. Wildflower blooms are subject to many factors and blossoming occurs at different places and different times. Water and...
31 Wonderful Travel Tips for First-Timers to Bishop
Photo: @kschipke You never forget your first time. Your first time in Bishop, California. Perhaps you were here as a child and have fleeting, but sweet memories of fishing with a parent. Now you’re all grown up you should come back to relive some of that...
Inside Bishop Mule Days: Viewed as a Volunteer
To a Bishop Mule Days volunteer, Mule Days never really ends. Oh sure, everyone packs up and goes home, the fairgrounds hosts other events, and the seasons change, but Mule Days is always right around the corner. If you are like me, you have a pre-packed bin of Mule...
If You Can Walk You Can Snowshoe
Getting out in the winter can seem like a daunting venture. The cold, the clothing, the weather the skills needed and all sorts of other reasons. The hardest part of any mountain trip is often getting out the door and for a snowshoe trip into the winter wonders of the...
Get Yourself and Your Kids Ready for Fishing
There are many places to fish in the Owens Valley all year long, but what so many anglers look forward to every year is the California general trout season. Opening day of fishing season, the last Saturday in April, is anticipated as eagerly as Christmas is by adults...
Idols of American Music at Mule Days
It’s true that here in the Eastern Sierra we idolize the steadfast and sturdy mule. This magnificent pack animal is, almost literally, the backbone of our western American heritage. We celebrate ‘the legacy, heritage and talents of the mule’ every Memorial Day weekend...
The Druid Stones Trail Guide
Intro Getting to the Druid Stones is definitely an uplifting experience. The hike climbs about 1,700 feet in a little under 2 miles and delivers a bird’s eye view of Bishop and the Owens Valley below. The hike follows a fairly obvious trail from the base of the Coyote...
A Dozen or More Wonderful Winter Hikes in the Eastern Sierra
Photo: Michael White Winter in the Eastern Sierra is wild and wonderful and always unpredictable. The region is well-known worldwide, as a premier hiking destination. The Pacific Crest Trail, the John Muir Trail and the hike up to the highest point on the continental...
Taking Care of Business in Bishop
Even on vacation you may have a few things to take care of, and even in a small town it can take a while to find the services you need. We've put together a handy list of businesses and services you may be looking for in Bishop, and how to get to them. Visitors Center...
Extreme Sierra. Extreme Events.
"On top of Mt. Whitney" Photo: Emiliano Reyna Extreme Sierra The Eastern Sierra is a land of extremes. There are extremes in temperature and climate, of topography and geology, about features of the fauna and flora, and in feats of human endeavor in the region....
Wheelchair Accessible Places to Go and Things to Do in the Eastern Sierra
Bishop City Park. Photo: Tucheh Stone “We believe the freedom and exhilaration of outdoor challenges changes lives. No one should be left behind simply because of a disability!” -- Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra. A Paradise The Eastern Sierra is known as an outdoor...
How to Pet a Mule (or a burro or a horse)
Drive just about any backroad near Bishop, California during the winter months and you'll see herds of horses and mules out in pasture. Drive that same backroad during the summer and those pastures are likely to be empty, raising the question, "Where did they go?" The...
Bishop Country Club – Golf Guide
Intro The Bishop Country Club is located in one of the most beautiful settings in California – the Eastern Sierra. The fairways are picturesque, the views are uninterrupted, and the scenery is spectacular. Set in the broad expanse of the Owens Valley with the snow...
Blake Jones Trout Derby
50th ANNIVERSARY March 17, 2018 Intro The Blake Jones Trout Derby, held in Bishop every year in March, is one of the largest single day fishing events in California. The Bishop Area Chamber of Commerce began the annual fishing derby in 1968 and renamed it the Blake...
Razzle Dazzle Instagrazzle
“Hey Mom, I’m going to instagrazzle this one!” That’s what my daughter says when she has a great shot to post to Instagram. Then I reply, “Nice one. That will razzle dazzle ‘em.” If your Instagram feed is all about the wow factor in your life then come see and share...
Walkabout Bishop – Top 10 Reasons for Getting Out of your Car
Exploring Bishop on Foot Bishop is a walking town - on any day or evening you'll find people out on our downtown streets and wide sidewalks, dropping into a neighborhood shop for coffee or a meal, browsing the shops for gifts or treats, meeting up with friends for a...
Summertime Fun in a Wintertime Wonderland
Oh yeah, it’s cold out there. Snow has fallen. Ski season has started. You’ve packed your bags and you’re all geared up for a winter experience. But have you considered that you could experience a little summer with your winter? No. Well consider this … you can! Right...
It’s a Wonderful Life in Bishop during the Holidays
“Then it seemed to me that the Sierra should be called, not the Nevada or Snowy Range, but the Range of Light. And after ten years of wandering and wondering in the heart of it, rejoicing in its glorious floods of light, the white beams of the morning streaming...
The Railroad Express
Intro This is the train ride of the year. In fact it’s a magical train ride into yesteryear and it only happens once every year. Do you believe in holiday magic and that wishes really do come true? Well then get your Golden Ticket and receive a happy holiday bell when...
The Reluctant Highballer
My favorite highball of all times is in the Buttermilks in Bishop, CA. It’s a classic. A perfect set of moves. My hands sweat just thinking about it. I keep telling myself, with the pads we have it’s going to be ok, even with the big dyno at the end. What...
Hiking with dogs in the Eastern Sierra
One of the best things about living in and visiting the eastern Sierra are the thousands of acres of public land available for recreating. These mountains, valleys, and tablelands allow us incredible freedom in the ways we can visit them, including bringing our dogs...
Guide to Fall Color Spotting from Behind the Lens
Outside on the Eastside Fall is long in the Eastern Sierra. The topography of the region provides a slow shift into winter that starts first at the higher elevations and descends slowly over the open plains of the Owens Valley below. The cooling begins in September as...
How to Beat the Heat in Bishop
It’s not unusual for temperatures to climb to and over the 100-degree mark during the summer months in Bishop. And, yes, there’s that wonderful and oft repeated phrase, “But it’s a dry heat.” Well, that’s true and it does make it a little more bearable, but for those...
How to Tie Fishing Knots: 10 Easy Knots to Get You Started
Fishing knots are created and used everyday by many anglers worldwide. There is a variety of fishing knots, each has a different role, from attaching a line to a hook or swivel, attaching a line to a lure, to connecting and joining lines. If you have the right fishing...
5 Reasons to Rest, Refuel, & Regroup in Bishop
Photo: Madi Taylor “Miles weren't things that blazed dully past. They were long, intimate straggles of weeds and clumps of dirt, blades of grass and flowers that bent in the wind, trees that lumbered and screeched. They were the sound of my breath and my feet hitting...
The Night Sky in the Eastern Sierra
Ancient Bristlecone Pine & Milky Way. Photo: Tony Rowell Intro The night sky has captured the human imagination from time immemorial. Here in the Eastern Sierra the clear air and lack of light pollution make way for unimpeded visibility of the stars. On a night...
Camping Successfully With Kids
Have your kids outgrown camping your backyard? Bring them for a camping vacation in our big backyard. Here in the Eastern Sierra, Bishop has many wonderful options for camping that offer the gamut from full hookups to dispersed camping. Camping is a great way to...
Laws Poleta Area
Intro At the base of the White Mountains, 5 miles east of the center of Bishop, is an exceptional off-road motorcycling and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) area. The Poleta Open Area, covering 2,500 acres, consists of about 50 miles of single-track and ATV trails...
Sierra Bighorns on Ledge of Breakthrough
Written by Tom Stienstra From a perch above a boulder-strewn ravine, we peered with binoculars up canyon walls and across a steep jumble of rocks and dirt for endangered Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep. The arrival of spring in the high country is when Sierra bighorns...
A World of Good Food in the Eastern Sierra
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” -Virginia Woolf Good food prepares us, recharges us, and connects us with our family, friends and a community. Bishop is the “small town with a big backyard” and it also has a pretty impressive...
Small Town, Big Backyard: 6 Reasons Why Bishop is a Must-Visit Destination for Outdoor Lovers
Bishop, California is in what is arguably one of the most beautiful pockets of land in the Lower 48. It’s no wonder that the town is known as "small town with a big backyard." Between the Sierra and Inyo National Forest, just south of Yosemite and north of Death...
The Alabama Hills – A Quick Guide
Intro The Alabama Hills, nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada just west of Lone Pine, is one of Hollywood’s favorite filming locations. This monumental landscape provides a myriad of settings for movie backgrounds and evocative scenes. The beautiful rock...
Made in Bishop
The old world charm and quiet, country setting of Bishop belies its bold business heart. There are, living here, brave explorers and daring entrepreneurs who are making products and building businesses inspired by the mountains and a lifestyle of clean air, beautiful...
Volcanic Tableland Loop – Trail Running
Intro Around 700,000 years ago, the Volcanic Tablelands were formed from the erupting caldera in Long Valley. Near the small California town of Bishop, the Volcanic Tableland has become known around the rock climbing world as one of the more awesome spots to explore....
Happy and Sad Boulders – Climbing
Intro The Happy and Sad Boulders offer hundreds of boulder problems that will delight and challenge climbers who come to Bishop to test their skills. With everything from jugs to crimps to pockets, you can find just about anything here. There are caves and cracks, and...
Blake Jones Cancellation Alternative Fishing Weekend
I ask the question what is a normal weather year? Is it the drought we have endured the last four years? Is it the wet winter we are experiencing this winter? I’ve lived here long enough to know that every year is different and it’s hard to predict what winter will...
8 Incredible Adventures Between Death Valley and Yosemite National Parks
The small town of Bishop, California is nestled in the northern end of the Owens Valley, where the high desert meets rushing creeks and pine forests—all with the snow-capped Sierra Mountains in the background. Bishop is also located just hours away from two of the...
Owens River Gorge
Intro The Owens River Gorge is a deep, steep-sided canyon about 10 miles long located northwest of Bishop. It is a world-class destination for rock climbing and a favorite fishing area. The gorge offers fun and adventure all year long for climbers, anglers and hikers....
Mule Days
A world-class equestrian event promoting the legacy, heritage and talents of the mule. Intro For five days, every Memorial Day weekend, more than 30,000 fans from around the country (and the world) converge on Bishop for this colorful and fun festival. It is a...
Tungsten Peak – Hiking
Intro The beautiful Tungsten Hills are easy to overlook because of the surrounding peaks that dwarf them in size, such as Mt. Tom and the Wheeler Crest. They are a year round delight for those looking to take a quick jaunt in nature, however. It’s easy to get caught...
Buttermilk Country – Year Round Playground
Intro Buttermilk Country is a well-known, world-class bouldering destination. The massive boulders provide some of the most accessible and diverse bouldering in the country with routes that offer everything from fun scrambling to highly technical ‘problems’ that...
Must Do Trail Runs in the Eastern Sierra
Trail running and mountain running are not new to the world of running, but are becoming more popular as a way to enjoy the natural world around us and, at the same time, achieve fitness goals. Running on trails and in areas removed from urban life, where traffic and...
Owens River Gorge – Climbing
Intro The Owens River Gorge is a massive collection of some of the finest sport climbing that California has to offer. With over 300 routes ranging from 5.6 to 5.13, this crag has something for everyone. The rock in the Owens River Gorge is a type of volcanic tuff...
Bishop to Rock Creek – Cycling
Intro This bucket list climb is one of the most challenging, but rewarding efforts, a serious cyclist can tackle—there’s a reason this ride is considered one of the best in the area. The major steep, sharp climb takes place on the second half of the route, but the...
Grass Lake Loop – Trail Running
Intro In the Inyo National Forest, one trail is quietly becoming a great training run for trail runners in the greater Bishop Area. Known as the Grass Lake Loop, this 5k running route is the ideal loop for training, or just a relaxing jaunt into the gorgeous John Muir...
Bishop Pass – Hiking
Intro The popular (and sometimes busy) trail to Bishop Pass is steep and slightly rocky, making it more enjoyable for seasoned hikers. The second half of the ascent to the pass is where the real challenge begins (especially if there is still snow hanging around), but...
4 Wonderful Winter Road Bike Rides Around Bishop
Thanksgiving weekend is a wonderful time to start a winter road biking regimen. After the helpings of good food and time indoors with family and friends the first ride of the holidays will begin to work off the excess and exhilarate the body and mind. Research has...
Winter Fly Fishing in Bishop, CA on the lower Owens River
Best Fly Fishing in California! November 15 is a sad day in the life of an Eastern Sierra trout angler. It is the last day of the general fishing season. Fortunately, there are a handful of special regulated waters that offer winter fishing opportunities in the off...
Lower Owens River – Fishing
Intro Located below Pleasant Valley Reservoir and just north of Bishop, the Lower Owens River parallels Highway 395, making it easily accessible and a perfect spot for winter fly fishing. The river makes its way through a valley surrounded by the striking peaks of the...
Bishop Adds Up To More Fun This Winter
Where do crisp, snowy mountain mornings and sunny, warm high desert afternoons add up to the perfect winter experience? In Bishop, of course! Follow freshies at Mammoth Mountain with afternoon fishing on the Lower Owens River. Add a vertical component to your morning...
Whip it, Strip it, Fly it, Tie it.
How could I resist? Scrolling down the list of workshops, clinics and seminars for the Southwest Council of International Fly Fishers annual Fly Fishing Faire last October, the name of one clinic stopped me in my tracks. A whole day of fly fishing for women, by women,...
London. Paris. New York. Bishop.
During the last century the major urban centers of the world were traditionally hubs for creativity where low-cost urban living and compact communities were places where artists could live inexpensively and create art. The lifestyle was such that artists could gather...
6½ Reasons Why Bishop Rocks
I could list a thousand reasons why Bishop rocks. It’s stunningly beautiful. The mountains are majestic. The high desert is surreal. The climate is wonderful. There are scores of world-class outdoor activities to be enjoyed. The city is small and attractive. The...
Local Lingo and Colloquialisms of the Eastern Sierra
The Eastern Sierra is a lovely and unique place. Like other lovely and unique places, it has a certain language of its own. There are words and names, phrases and pronunciations that are particular and perhaps even peculiar to our part of the world. Some things have a...
Awesome Autumn Fishing in the Bishop Creek Canyon
Every September after Labor Day, a sense of stillness descends on the Bishop Creek Canyon. The kids are back in school, the family vacationers have come and gone, and the hustle and bustle of the summertime gives way to the relative peace and quiet of fall. It is...
The Season for Gold in Bishop
The Olympic Games have ended and will happen again in 2020, but here in the Eastern Sierra gold is far more easily attained and is awarded to us every year. When the air cools and summer turns to autumn the leaves begin to change color and an abundance of yellow,...
Bishop is a dog-friendly destination
One of the best parts of being in the travel and tourism industry is getting introduced to great travel writers and photographers. We've been inspired by many, and recently were lucky enough to run across Katherine and Romeo Belarmino's travel blog, Travel the World....
48 Hours of Adventure in Bishop
Rising to just over 4,000 feet in elevation, Bishop, California is a town of about 11,000 people nestled in a high desert valley, wedged between the High Sierra and the White Mountains. With nearby national parks and national forests, deserts and mountain peaks,...
Half Way Between Heaven and Well … Heaven!
The National Park Service is 100 years old this year. President Woodrow Wilson signed a bill 100 years ago directing the Department of the Interior “to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and wildlife therein, and to provide for the enjoyment of...
John Muir Trail – Hiking
Intro The John Muir Trail (JMT) is an American classic—211 miles that wind through some of the West’s (and the country’s) most beautiful mountain terrain—sequoia forests and granite mountaintops and deep canyons. The trail’s namesake, John Muir, is well-respected for...
The Good, Better & Best of Trail Running
Photo credit: Mike McDermott Trail runners who know … know that Bishop, California is trail-running heaven. Now all of trail running world knows. Bishop was rated one of the 8 great top trail running mountain towns on the North American continent in the September...
“300 Miles Too Long or 300 Years Too Soon” – Darius Ogden Mills
The Slim Princess The railroad in the Owens Valley was more than just a stretch of the imagination. It was a vision inspired by tales of rich strikes in the mines of California, when a lull in mining activity was settling on the Comstock and in Virginia City, Nevada....
Finding Solitude – An Essential Guide
“The mountains are calling and I must go.” – John Muir. The annals of history are full of the reminiscences of women and men who have sought and found solitude in the mountains. Many of these individuals also found inspiration there and much of our cultural heritage...
Lake Sabrina – Hiking
Intro Lake Sabrina leads to several trails that reveal a series of alpine lakes in glacial basins and several 13,000-foot peaks along the way. High in the Sierra Nevadas not far from Bishop, California, hikers can embark on strenuous day hikes or multi-day backpacking...
Independence Day in the Eastern Sierra
Celebrating Independence Day in the Eastern Sierra is a whole weekend full of fun. From Friday, July 1st to Monday, July 4th there are exciting activities available for the whole family. From the city of Independence to the town of Mammoth Lakes, with Bishop midway...
Fun 4×4 Adventures near Bishop
The valley is wide, the mountains high, and exhilarating 4x4 adventures are almost limitless. The Inyo National Forest is home to some of the nation’s most spectacular alpine scenery. A legal system of roads and trails for motorized vehicles was designated here in...
8 of the Best Hikes Near Bishop
Sandwiched between Death Valley and Yosemite National Park, the small town of Bishop, California, is packed full of wilderness adventure. Home to what some argue is the purest and most-inspiring wilderness in America, residents and visitors to Bishop have countless...
Field Guide to Aquatic Stream Insects of the Sierra Nevada
… and why they’re so important! June in the Eastern Sierra is “take a kid or friend fishing” month. Our big backyard is the perfect place to teach your youngsters and friends about fishing. Besides the fresh mountain air, wide open spaces, crystal clear streams and...
Night Photography: Beautiful Bishop After Dark
It is with great pleasure we offer you this guest post (with a link to the entire blog post and more photos) by Katherine Belarmino. Katherine and Romeo Belarmino are the authors of Travel the World, a travel blog for the everyday working stiff. They work full-time in...
All the Ins & Outs of Camping in Bishop Creek Canyon
It’s not a secret, but it certainly is a best-kept area - especially for camping. Bishop Creek Canyon is a large area of about 30 square miles where the North, Middle, and South Forks of Bishop Creek drain down toward the Owens Valley. At the head of each fork is a...
5 Things to Know About Bishop Mule Days
Bishop Mule Days is right around the corner We've got some tips for navigating the biggest, brightest and best Mule Show in the country. Grab your boots and come on in. Number 1. Go Early, Go Often Mule Days stretches over almost a week, and many of the most beloved...
A Few Fun Ways to Celebrate Fishmas – besides Fishing!
Fishmas is fabulous! We know you love fishing in the Eastern Sierra. So do we. We also know that we love to do lots of other fun, fantastic things out here and perhaps you do too. If you’re a member of a fishing family, but you don’t fish, or you find that you need a...
6 Super Spots to See Wildflowers near Bishop
The Eastside has had a much wetter winter than previous years, during which time we too suffered from the widespread drought that affected much of California and the western US. The accumulation of snow at the higher elevations on both the Sierra Nevada and White...
Fauna and Flora of the Owens Valley: Indigenous, Endemic, Endangered
Photo credit: Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep Foundation Every place or region has its own distinctive character or something unique that sets it apart and makes it special. Some of these things are easily seen or found while others go unnoticed or are hidden and...
Strategies for Wildlife Living in the Desert
Guest Post by Tom & Jo Heindel Deserts occur worldwide and all the wildlife that lives in these deserts faces similar challenges. Basically, deserts are areas with little rain, high evaporation rates, hot and windy summers, cold and windy winters, little open...
10 Perfect Places for Spring Camping around Bishop
You’re getting the itch to go camping in the Eastern Sierra, but unless you’re the hardy winter camping sort it’s a little too early to head up into the high country. Perhaps you bought some new gear recently or you need to dust off the old stuff and get things...
Women’s Climbing Fest 2016
The first Flash Foxy Climbing Festival was a three day event that brought together and celebrated the growing community of women climbers. The festival not only reached veteran female climbers but also provided a safe space for beginner climbers to learn more about...
Super Spring Hikes around Bishop
A springtime hike in the Owens Valley is pure joy. Daytime temperatures are pleasantly warm and the hours of daylight increase with each day. The trees and bushes are blossoming and wildflowers can be seen in the fields and alongside streams. There is a sense of...
Finding Winter Wildlife in Bishop’s Backyard
On a recent trip during President’s Day Weekend, our outdoor touring group spotted about ten deer just outside the small village of Rovana. Feeding on nearby plants, these docile mammals allowed us to get within a few yards of them while we snapped away on...
Community Theatre in Bishop presents Chicago
Tonight … the curtain goes up on Bishop’s community theatre production of the Broadway hit ‘Chicago’. There is a palpable energy in this little Eastern Sierra mountain town in anticipation of this year’s Playhouse 395 show. Community theatre and the arts in general...
Death Valley Wildflower Phenomena Brought to you by El Niño
Superbloom. The latest Marvel Comic character? A new plant food additive? No, it's the fabulous Death Valley wildflower phenomena brought to you by El Niño. It turns out the desert has a sweet spot. It's just the right amount of rain, sunshine, and low winds to coax...
6 Great Winter Mountain Bike Rides around Bishop
Winter in Bishop is one the best times of year for mountain biking in the area. The days are frequently warm and sunny and now as we edge toward spring the daylight hours are getting longer and longer. There are trails and tracks that challenge skill, fitness and even...
White Pelican Migration in the Eastern Sierra
Many locations have spectacular wildlife observation opportunities and the Eastern Sierra can claim one of them. If one wants an awe inspiring experience with Sandhill Cranes, a winter trip to Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico, will not...
Yoga in Bishop: Not Just Backbends
Not too long ago yoga classes were offered in big cities and urban areas but in small towns it was hard to find. Not so anymore. Yoga is so much a part of daily life for many that even a little town like Bishop has not one, or two, but four options for getting your...
Winter Motorcycle Rides: On-road. Off-road.
Ride the White Mountains on your motorcycle! The Eastern Sierra is well known for its mountains and wonderful outdoor adventure activities. Many of these are human powered activities such as: hiking, climbing, cycling, kayaking, fishing, paragliding, skiing and … the...
4 Fabulous Photography Features
Photography is a passion for many in the Eastern Sierra For those who live here or visit regularly photography is often a daily activity. Sometimes it’s just a momentary opportunity to snap a quick image. Other times it’s a commitment to time and place to capture a...
Road Trip: The Land of Est!
This is the land of est … the highest, the lowest, the largest, the saddest, the oldest, the greatest, the longest and perhaps other ests you may discover for yourself along the way. US Highway 395 from Lone Pine to Bishop – 60 miles US Highway 395 runs for 557 miles...
Motor Touring Round Valley
Read on for a motor tour of the Round Valley, Bishop area you can easily do in the morning or an afternoon. We recommend stopping by one of our friendly coffee houses for you favorite beverage before heading out on this pleasant loop, and it never hurts to throw a pair of sturdy shoes in the car in case you decide to explore a little more on foot.
Bishop Motocross Series Races
Gates open at 7am. Race entry fee $40 for first class and $20 for second class. Located at Tri-County Fairgrounds Find out more!
5 Free Winter Activities in Bishop
Bishop, a 40-minute drive south of Mammoth Lakes and 4,000 feet lower in elevation, is truly the heart of the Eastern Sierra. The town has charm and grace, the community is hospitable and friendly, and the landscape is, well … spectacular! Bishop and the surrounding...
Fly Fishing Around Bishop
The Upper and Lower Owens River is open to fishing all year. Get inspired!
Women’s Climbing Festival
Flash Foxy is hosting a women's climbing festival! The inaugural festival will take place February 19-21, 2016 right here in Bishop. Even if you are new to climbing, the goal is that the festival will not only reach veteran female climbers but also provide a safe...
Bishop Hot Springs
Baby, it's cold outside! But at Keough's Hot Springs the water is warm and the sun is shining! Keough's was established in 1919 and is the largest natural hot springs pool in the Eastern Sierra. Amenities include lounge chairs for sun bathing, snack bar for...
Falling in Love with Fall
When I tell folks that I love summers in Bishop, which tend to run into 100+ degrees on an average summer day, most think that perhaps the heat has addled my brain. Not so. I was conditioned to love summer, but now what I’ve learned to love even more is fall!
Tule Elk
Tule Elk A hulking and magnificent animal in its own right, approximately 400 – 500 Tule Elk roam the Owens Valley area, mostly between Lone Pine and Bishop. This subspecies (Cervus Canadensis ssp. nannodes) of elk is not native to the East Sierra but is actually...
Buttermilk Country
The Buttermilk road no longer carries dairy trucks from “Old Joe” Inman’s Dairy along its rough and rocky track that, according to local legend, could bounce and churn fresh milk into buttermilk on its way into Bishop. Now that the dairy has long since disappeared and...
Be Bear Aware
BEAR AWARENESS Reduce the risk of close encounters with bears: Let Someone Know: where you are going and when you plan to return. Keep Children Close: to you and within your immediate sight at all times. Avoid damage to your vehicle by NOT leaving any foods, drinks,...
Round Valley Mule Deer
Mule Deer Comprising one of the highest numbers of megafauna (large wildlife) species in the Eastern Sierra, Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) can be found in numerous herds throughout Inyo and Mono Counties. Look for their white rumps, black-tipped tails, and...