As the Sierra Nevada Mountains begin to snuggle into their winter blanket, it’s the perfect reminder to slow down. To savor each moment. To reconnect with family, friends, and the things that truly matter. That’s where Bishop comes in. Like your favorite pair of slippers, this mountain town is ready to wrap you in a big hug and recharge your soul, so you return home feeling refreshed, grounded, and ready for whatever comes next. Here’s why Bishop is the perfect place to do just that.
Bishop’s climate and geography offers unique holiday fun: enjoy summer and winter activities in the same day.
Easy to get to for a quick holiday getaway: Centrally located between major Western cities with easy flights and one of the most beautiful road trips in the country.
Clear roads, sunshine and big mountains – Image appears courtesy: Bishop Visitors Center
Speaking of time, trying to see all the people you care about can be tough, especially when family and friends are spread out across the West. That’s what makes Bishop such a gem. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and high desert beauty, it’s surprisingly right in the middle of Reno, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas. And this time of year, flights from San Francisco and Denver make getting here easier than ever. To top it off, the road trip to Bishop is often ranked among the most beautiful drives in the country, making the journey just as rewarding as the destination itself.
A Winter Wonderland for Everyone
Once you’re here, Bishop and its big backyard offer a unique combination of things to do that kiddos to those grandparents who are young at heart, and everyone in between will enjoy. To get a feel for what makes this place so special, check out local writer Gigi de Jong’s colorful piece “Where West Meets Wild.”
Want to go play in the snow? Take a twenty-minute scenic drive up into the mountains. Yearning to go for a hike in a t-shirt? Head to the Volcanic Tablelands or Buttermilk Country. It’s why Bishop is called a “Warm” winter wonderland because you can do pretty much ANY activity in the winter.
Embracing Season’s Cheer
Along with its endless outdoor adventures, Bishop’s small-town charm truly shines this time of year. On the first Saturday of December, visitors and locals come together for the annual Christmas Parade, where lighted floats roll down Main Street all the way to City Park for the Christmas tree lighting ceremony. From there, the celebration continues with the Street of Lights party.
And if you have little ones, don’t miss the Railroad Express event at Laws Railroad Museum on the second Saturday of December. Families can enjoy train rides, crafts, wagon rides, refreshments, and of course, a visit with Santa himself.
Don’t let the stress pile up until it feels as big as Mt. Whitney. Instead, treat yourself to a cozy getaway in Bishop. You’ll be so glad you did.
Written by:
Alex Silgalis
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.
