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While Bishop’s big backyard may attract you to visit, to really catch a glimpse of the soul of the Eastern Sierra and Bishop itself you need to set aside time and take in an event. Ranging from electrifying music festivals to the nation’s longest non-motorized parade, take a close look at some of the bigger annual events that you may not even know happen throughout the year.
It’s true. Bishop can reach triple digits in the summer. However, unlike other areas burdened by urban heat islands or tropical climates, you’ll always find times or places to enjoy the outdoors comfortably. Tucked in a high desert valley between two imposing mountain ranges, Bishop offers an extensive list of summer activities as vast as the mountains themselves. Whether you’re eight or eighty, here are some adventures everyone can relish, ensuring your summer trip is filled with unforgettable memories.
For those aspiring to conquer towering peaks like Mt Whitney, there’s no better starting point than White Mountain. Located approximately 50 miles from Bishop, it’s regarded as one of the “easiest” 14ers to hike in the lower 48. This makes it an ideal choice for first timers. Why? You can complete the hike in a single day without the need for overnight backpacking or camping. However, don’t be fooled— the trailhead starts at 12,000 feet and entails an elevation gain of over 2,500 feet! In other words, it’s a challenge worthy of anyone’s pride. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the 8 best hikes near Bishop.
As the school year comes to an end, summer offers your children the freedom to explore their interests. While freedom is good, why not give them something to look forward to this season? Enroll them in one of the many summer camps for kids taking place in the Eastern Sierra. They’ll forge new friendships, boost their confidence, and most importantly, return home with cherished memories. And while they’re enjoying themselves, seize the day by indulging in some “me” time by exploring Bishop and its expansive outdoor playground.
Highway 395 is arguably one of the greatest strips of asphalt for a road trip. It provides you access to “The Land of -Est.” Such as the Tall-EST peak in the lower 48, the Low-EST point on the continent or even Old-EST trees on the planet, just to name a few. If you’ve seen these attractions or want to really experience the Eastern Sierra, take it a step further and hit the Bishop Big Loop Auto Tour.
If there’s a place on Earth that’s perfectly suited for backpacking, it’s the Eastern Sierra. The Sierra Nevada receives nearly 300 days of sunshine. Wonderfully pleasant temps in the summer as well as into fall. And on top of it all, you’ll find serene lakes with nary a person round. Eye popping granite peaks to take in. And an adventure you’ll remember for the rest of your life. No matter your age, fitness level, or experience, there’s a way for you to enjoy backpacking in Bishop on your own terms. Don’t miss out on exploring deeper into Bishop’s expansive wilderness this summer.
Bishop is legendary for its road biking. The perfect basecamp for visitors and residents alike to get outside and ride pretty much year-round. You’ll also find that the roads are so lightly trafficked that you may not see another soul or encounter a traffic light or stop-sign for many miles. But if you really want to delve into the unknown, consider heading out on a gravel grinder.
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.
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.
Willkommen, Bienvenue, Welcome Tips To All Our Foreign Visitors
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
Pick your path along these inspirational story maps that inform and inspire.
Flip through the pages of the new Bishop Information Guide! Or Download a FREE Visitor Guide or request one sent to your home today.