If you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed by daily stresses, it’s time to consider Bishop’s Big Backyard as a therapy session. Instead of pushing yourself to accomplish feats like summiting a mountain or solving a bouldering problem, set aside part of your vacation to simply unwind in nature. In fact, take one of these easy winter hikes and try forest bathing!
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Your Guide to Relax in Bishop: Easy Winter Hikes
Easy Hikes
Winter Walking Trails
Movie Road Tour
What is Forest Bathing?
Although the term originated in Japan in the 1980s, the concept has deep roots in both Asian and Japanese traditions. Known as “shinrin-yoku,” it roughly translates to “forest bathing” or immersing oneself in the atmosphere of the forest. At its core, it’s a mental practice of stepping into nature and consciously connecting with your surroundings. In fact, forest therapy has proven so effective that it has been integrated into national healthcare systems in Asia and is recognized as a legitimate method for stress reduction. It’s even considered a bona fide way to combat chronic illness.
If you want to try it yourself, here’s a great wiki article providing step-by-step instructions.
Perfect Climate for Winter Hiking
With temperatures averaging in the 50s and 60s throughout winter and more than 335 days of sunshine per year, Bishop’s Warm Winter Wonderland offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors year-round including hiking. Here’s a run-down of some of the dozens of wonderful winter hikes to be had in the Eastern Siera.
Mobius Arch Trail
Distance: Less than a mile
Difficulty: Easy
The entire Alabama Hills area offers magnificent hiking, with numerous roads and trails winding through stunning rock formations. One easy winter hike that stands out is the Mobius Arch Trail. This short but sweet excursion leads to the largest and most picturesque of the many natural arches in the area. And on warmer winter days, the late afternoon is especially lovely, as the sun sets behind the crest.
Zabriskie Point
Distance: Less than a mile
Difficulty: Easy
If there’s one part of Bishop’s Big Backyard that should be explored in winter, it’s Death Valley National Park. As the hottest point on the continent, winter offers the perfect weather to explore its otherworldly attractions. One easy hike everyone should add to their list is Zabriskie Point. It provides a bird’s-eye view of the stark badlands, snow-covered peaks, and salt flats in the distance. It’s no wonder photographers come here to capture the sunrise. For more information about this and other sights, be sure to check out Bishop’s Guide to Death Valley National Park.
Tungsten City Running Loop
Distance: 4 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate (few punchy, sandy ups and downs) – with easier options available
The Tungsten Hills provide views of the Eastern Sierra and White Mountains that has to be experienced. Named for the tungsten that was mined here in the 1940s, the area also offers opportunities for rock hounding, where you can search for crystals of red garnet. It’s also a great dog-friendly hike. For more dog-friendly hikes that are perfect for winter and spring, check out Gigi’s Super Spring Hikes around Bishop.
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.
