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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...
Bishop Fly Fishing Report

Bishop Fly Fishing Report

Updated 3/8/2024 Sunny days in the 60’s are in store for the Eastern Sierra for the next week. Most of the snow fell above the 7,500 foot level. Dirt roads in the Long Valley area are drying out, but fly fishers need to drive with caution as the mud can easily cause vehicles to get stuck. Blue wing olive mayflies, caddis, midge and stoneflies continue to provide the food to trout that fly fishers are imitating. Peak insect activity has been mid-day which means the best fly fishing of the day is from 11 to 3. Dry fly activity is increasing, but nymphing continues to be the most productive method on Eastern Sierra waters. Stay tuned for the Blake Jones Trout Derby, March 23.

Climbing Conditions Report

Climbing Conditions Report

Updated 3/9/2024 Conditions Report time! Buttermilks have melted out! Chalk Bluff Road is open again. Spring magic is happening as we begin to see little buds and blooms popping up all over Owen’s Valley! 🌱 Stay on trail, watch where you’re placing crash pads, and don’t drag crash pads through the desert. We don’t want to crush those little cuties as they try to grow and help us combat erosion in our beloved climbing areas. 🌼

Eastsider Spotlight: Mike McDermott

Eastsider Spotlight: Mike McDermott

Michael McDermott; a Cerro Gordo of psych and skill behind the lens. This collaboration has infused two synergistic aspects of the project – photography quality and stylistic diversity, and involvement of local runners – with an infectious energy. Read on.

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.

Welcome Tips

Welcome Tips

Willkommen, Bienvenue, Welcome Tips To All Our Foreign Visitors 

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.

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...
Come Again? What To Do If You’ve Been Here Before… Go Beyond

Come Again? What To Do If You’ve Been Here Before… Go Beyond

John Muir once wisely remarked, “between two pines is a doorway to a new world.” If you’ve been to Bishop and checked off the classic attractions, like witnessing the world’s oldest tree or enjoying the numerous alpine lakes filled with fish, we recommend going...
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...
Find the Perfect Gift at Local Area Museums and Visitor Centers

Find the Perfect Gift at Local Area Museums and Visitor Centers

One of the best ways to find unique and thoughtful gifts while traveling is to visit museum gift shops. Museums are a great place to learn about the history and culture of a region, and the gift shops in the Museums of the Eastern Sierra carry a wide selection of items that are representative of our local area.

Bishop Is Home To The Longest Fall Colors In California

Bishop Is Home To The Longest Fall Colors In California

After a warm summer exploring Bishop’s big backyard, fall is like the cold refreshing pint of beer after a hike. Everything just tastes and feels better. The “bloom” of fall brings a sense of excitement. Mother Nature is letting you know that time is fleeting. That...
2023 Blake Jones Trout Derby Recap

2023 Blake Jones Trout Derby Recap

The 54th edition of the Blake Jones Trout Derby is now “in the books” and it was a good one! Despite rescheduling the event from March to May then to September, there was a good turnout, and everyone had a great time. There were 233 registered participants this year,...
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.

Roaming the Range of Light: Five Iconic Trails in the High Sierra

Roaming the Range of Light: Five Iconic Trails in the High Sierra

By: Jeff Kozak The author runs near the rounded summit of Mazourka Peak in the Inyo Mountains, looking west across the Owens Valley near Independence to the Sierra Crest and two 14’ers: Mt. Williamson and Mt. Tyndall. Howie Stern Rising abruptly on the western...
Angler Blake Jones was an icon of the Sierra

Angler Blake Jones was an icon of the Sierra

Imagine someone loading a mountain lion into a station wagon and taking it to a trade show, such as the Fred Hall Fishing Tackle Show.It would never happen today, of course, and not just because there are no more station wagons around.But that’s what Blake Jones did...

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