Bishop Visitor Logo

Bishop Visitor's Center

About the Author: Alex

blog author image

Alex founded localfreshies.com® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.

Bishop Visitor Blog Posts by Alex:

Uncommon Overnighters

Uncommon Overnighters

Everything about Bishop and its big backyard creates memories. Its list of attractions reads like the ultimate bucket list vacation – the oldest trees in the world to the tallest peak in the lower 48. It’s no wonder many affectionately call it the “Land Of -Est!” While there are plenty of places to get a good night’s sleep, for those wanting accommodations out of the ordinary, you’re in luck! Here’s some of our favorite “uncommon overnighters” in the region. 

Spring – A Hiker’s Paradise In Bishop 

Spring – A Hiker’s Paradise In Bishop 

The sound of water trickling over polished granite boulders. The warmth of the sun against your face. And as far as the eye can see, a meadow filled with blooming wildflowers. Spring isn’t just a great time to visit. It’s magical! Make sure you start off on the right...
Eastern Sierra Tour in Winter

Eastern Sierra Tour in Winter

The Eastern Sierra Tour, affectionately known as E.S.T., is a captivating 555-mile route showcasing a blend of breathtaking scenery and rich historical landmarks. While many embark on this journey during summer, exploring it in the colder months unveils a one-of-a-kind experience that’s not to be overlooked. Here are compelling reasons why a winter tour of the E.S.T. should be at the top of your list.

Small Town, Big Characters

Small Town, Big Characters

Bishop stands out as one of the few towns left to strike a perfect balance between tight-knit community yet easy access to the great outdoors. With 99% of the land in Inyo County being publicly owned, this gives Bishop an expansive backyard that’s beyond imagination. Craig London, owner of the Rock Creek Pack Station, shares his deep affection for Bishop and why you should enjoy the simple things in life.  

Underrated Landmarks

Underrated Landmarks

Most Underrated Landmarks That Tell You That You’re In Bishop There’s a lot of “big” attractions in Bishop and its big backyard. The oldest living thing on Earth at the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. The hulking peaks of the Eastern Sierra. The land of -EST some...
How To Use Webcams To Plan Your Winter Trip 

How To Use Webcams To Plan Your Winter Trip 

As winter blankets the High Sierra, direct routes like Sonora and Tioga Pass shut down for the season. But this isn’t a setback – it’s a chance for you to revel in our vast backyard with serene exclusivity. Due to our unique topography, you can start the...
Fishing Derbies In The Eastern Sierra

Fishing Derbies In The Eastern Sierra

Each year, the Eastern Sierra’s lakes, streams, and various bodies of water receive a generous stocking of 650,000 pounds of trout. All courtesy of Bishop, Inyo County, Mono County, Mammoth Lakes and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife. In fact, fishing is so intertwined with the community that opening day of fishing season is locally dubbed “Fishmas,” rivalling the anticipation of Christmas. Why not make this fishing season extend beyond those dates by entering a fishing derby in the High Sierra.

Even Easier To Get Into Bishop’s Big Backyard – New Winter Air Service

Even Easier To Get Into Bishop’s Big Backyard – New Winter Air Service

Instead of sitting in the car for hours upon hours, you’ll now have the opportunity to fly into Bishop Airport, also known as the Bishop/Mammoth or Eastern Sierra Regional Airport via San Francisco, and Denver. Each of these routes will operate daily through winter giving you access to world class climbing, skiing, and even golf at the Bishop Country Club and fishing on the Owens River.

Foodie Tour: Kick Start Your Bishop Adventures The Right Way

Foodie Tour: Kick Start Your Bishop Adventures The Right Way

Bishop’s backyard is a playground catering to everyone, from little tikes to those young at heart with a few more years under their belt. Whether you’re gearing up for a day of bouldering or planning a leisurely auto-tour, it’s a good idea to fuel up in the morning. If big breakfasts aren’t your thing, these coffee shops and bakeries are here to boost your mood and get those adventure juices flowing. Get set to kickstart your day with these invigorating options.

Take A Tour Of Movie Road

Take A Tour Of Movie Road

As you embark on your Eastern Sierra Tour, don’t miss out on the wonders of the Alabama Hills. Of course, a must-see attraction among many. But before immersing yourself in the iconic filming location, take a detour to the charming town of Lone Pine. Explore the Museum of Western Film History, where a treasure trove of memorabilia, images, documents, and posters awaits. Beyond classic Western movie artifacts, discover props from modern hits like the head of the giant worm from Tremors and the dirt covered business suit Tony Stark wore in Ironman when he was stuck in the cave.

Sierra Wave

Sierra Wave

California’s heartbeat is intertwined with the Pacific Ocean. From its iconic surf culture to its climate, it weaves itself into everything. Despite Bishop and the Eastern Sierra being hundreds of miles from the coast, it too is affected by it. And you’ll see it in its weather and seasons including the “Sierra Wave.”

Bouldering with Kids

Bouldering with Kids

Reach For The Sky And Stars – Bouldering With Kids In Bishop We affectionately refer to the area surrounding Bishop as “our Big Backyard” because much like your own backyard, it’s a place to have fun. An ideal destination for a family vacation, introducing...
Christmas Cheer

Christmas Cheer

This time of year, especially around the holidays, it can be stressful and even hectic as you prepare for Santa’s big day. Why not combine the joyful spirit of the holiday season with a short break to Bishop’s big backyard. Your family will come home with renewed...
4 Experiences for History Buffs

4 Experiences for History Buffs

Bishop and the Owens Valley are overflowing with beauty. Surrounded by the towering, rugged peaks of the Sierra Mountains in the West. And the majestic ridgeline of the White Mountains to the East. The breathtaking scenery and the plethora of outdoor activities are...
Celebrate Eons Of Culture At The Bishop Powwow

Celebrate Eons Of Culture At The Bishop Powwow

The Pabanamanina Powwow is being held from September 22nd through the 24th at the powwow grounds across from Wanaaha Casino.  This event, hosted by the Bishop Paiute Tribe and its many volunteers, is held every California Indian Days weekend, starting with a parade at 10am on California Indian Day.  Throughout the weekend, you’ll find hundreds of dancers, singers, friends, and family from all over the U.S. and abroad as they come together to share their culture and traditions.

Millpond Recreation Area

Millpond Recreation Area

Just six miles northwest of town, this 120-acre park has a bit of everything for anyone just looking for some outdoor fun in a tranquil setting. Millpond Recreation Area is known by many for one thing – the Millpond Music Festival. Check it out this September!

Classic Cars And Fall Foliage

Classic Cars And Fall Foliage

There couldn’t be a more perfect town to host a classic car show. For many, classic cars represent a different era in history and evoke memories of childhood or past vacations. And similar to classic cars, Bishop is a living time capsule where the character and charm remain preserved. This is your chance to relive memories by taking in the car show while enjoying a big slice of small-town Americana.

Soft Adventures in Bishop

Soft Adventures in Bishop

Think of it as the opportunity to experience the Eastern Sierra in a new light without putting yourself at risk or having to learn an entire set of skills to do it. Explore somewhere new while feeling invigorated and transformed by memorable experiences. Here’s a small sampling of soft adventures to be had in Bishop. 

Sample The Eastern Sierra Summer In A Myriad Of Ways

Sample The Eastern Sierra Summer In A Myriad Of Ways

The heat is on in Bishop. But unlike other hot locales, there are many ways to still enjoy the great outdoors in the summer, if you have a plan. As the saying “it’s a dry heat” goes… due to our proximity to the High Sierra and the desert climate, you can escape by going out early, taking a dip in an alpine lake, or go up in elevation to play. Here’s a few ideas on how you can sample Bishop’s Big Backyard this summer during the day.