Updated 12-06-2023 As the amount of daylight fades as we head towards winter solstice the daytime temperatures have dropped. Middle of the day in the Owens Valley is pleasant as long as you’re are in the sun. When the sun goes behind the mountains the temperatures plumet. There are sporadic hatches of blue wing olives and good hatches of midges. Brown trout spawning in upper elevations is quickly coming to an end. In the Owens Valley brown trout are still spawning. December through mid-January is the toughest time to be fly fishing in the Eastern Sierra. There are trout to be caught for the diligent fly fisher.
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.
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...
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...
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...
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,...
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.
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...
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!
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.
Family vacations are about relaxing as well as creating memories of fun times. When it comes to a destination to visit, there might be none more suited for an affordable outdoorsy family getaway than Bishop and its big backyard. To help plan your trip, here’s 6 things...
Deep in its core is Bishop, a place that rejuvenates the soul, that inspires visitors and residents alike to enrich themselves holistically and creatively. As the sunsets over the sharp razorback line of the Eastern Sierra, let these yoga studios and artistic outlets round out an already fulfilling trip.
We’ve compiled a list of scenic drives to help you marvel at mountain and valley views without setting foot on a trail. The Eastern Sierra is uniquely poised to offer gorgeous auto touring.
Horseback riding in Bishop and its big backyard isn’t just a hobby. It’s a tradition. To this day, the only way to access many parts of the rugged Eastern Sierra is by foot or horseback. That’s why Bishop has earned the moniker the “Mule Capital of the World.” While...
Bishop and its big backyard are magnetic to adventure seekers. An adult playground filled with an almost endless number of activities to choose from. Big scenery that arguably is some of the most beautiful in the world. If you and your partner are planning a wedding,...
Tucked in a quiet section of Owens Valley you’ll find the Alabama Hills. Although close to the mighty Sierra to the west this locale doesn’t share any resemblance of the tall peaks. Instead, you’ll find a landscape with arches, rounded rocks, and eroded hills that looks otherworldly. It’s no wonder they’ve been featured in hundreds of films over the years.
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...
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...
Out of anywhere in the world, Bishop might be the epicenter of soaking up all the seasons’ offerings to the fullest. The changing of the seasons isn’t a short bang like most other places. Rather, it’s like a well-orchestrated symphony. Starting slowly and lasting for months with a crescendo. The spring wildflower bloom starts in February and lasts until July. Similar to spring’s slow opening, fall foliage begins in early September and finishes in November.
From the peak of Mount Whitney to the depths of Death Valley—that’s how many options there are for things to do near Bishop, California. If that’s a bit extreme, here are a few more ideas: birding and fishing, cool rocks and hot springs, 4-wheel drive and all-star skies. Written by Visit USA Parks. Story also available in French and German.
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...
Death Valley is one of the most unique and beautiful places in all of America. This park blew us away as each area felt like a completely different world from the last. Making it in our opinion, one of most underrated parks in all of the US, and one you need to have on your bucket list.
Are you looking for camping that’s near the world-class recreation of Bishop? Look no further than the Pleasant Valley Pit Campground. Just north of Bishop and only a half mile off Highway 395, this gorgeous and friendly campground is the perfect spot to base yourself...