The Road Less Traveled: A Journey of Rejuvenation
The open road awaits, and with every mile, you’ll feel your worries melt away, replaced by a sense of awe and rejuvenation. The Eastern Sierra isn’t just a destination; it’s a state of mind.
The Eastern Sierra Tour: A Curated Journey
The Eastern Sierra Tour (EST) isn’t just a road trip; it’s a meticulously crafted itinerary designed to showcase the crown jewels of this remarkable region. Spanning over 550-miles and traversing an elevation range that dips below sea level in Death Valley and reaches the peak of Mount Whitney, the EST is an epic journey tailored for exploration.
Picture cruising down US Highway 395, the scenic artery that winds its way through the Eastern Sierra. One moment you’ll be dwarfed by the towering granite walls of Yosemite National Park, the next, marveling at the otherworldly spires of Devils Postpile National Monument. Dip your toes in the crystal-clear waters of Mono Lake, where strange tufa towers jut from the surface, a testament to the lake’s unique ecosystem. Hike among the world’s oldest living beings or listen for voices from the past at one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the western USA, the choice is yours.
But the EST is just one suggestion. The Eastern Sierra offers a buffet of road trip possibilities, each catering to a different desire.
Beyond the EST: Offbeat Adventures and Scenic Loops
Craving a quirky and offbeat adventure? The Weird and Wonderful Side of California takes you on a journey along US Highway 395 visiting fascinating attractions along the way. The points on this road trip are all testaments to human ingenuity and the wonders of nature. Like the Burro Schmidt Tunnel, a man-made tunnel dug by one man with no formal training; Fossil Falls, a geological wonder that was once a waterfall but is now a dry canyon of smooth, black lava rock; the coyote teeth dentures and the two-headed lamb; and more that you’ll have to see to believe.
A more laid-back experience. Consider the Bishop Big Loop Auto Tour, a scenic meander that winds its way around Bishop offering stunning mountain views; access to year-round, world-class fishing spots; seasonal vistas like wildflowers, fall colors, or snow-capped peaks; county parks and regional railroad history.
Feeling adventurous? Take a drive up Bishop Creek Canyon, a high Sierra haven for fabulous fall colors; a winter wonderland with visits from Santa during the holidays; spring wildflowers, and best of all, super summer fun, with boating, fishing, hiking, and camping under a canopy of stars.
Get dirty. Other great adventurous drives hit the dirt, literally. An extensive network of over 2,200-miles of dirt road in the Inyo National Forest with access to an OHV open area on which to drive on either 4- or 2-wheels is exhilarating. One great route is Chidago Canyon between Chalfant, on US Highway 6 just north of Bishop, and Benton Crossing road east of Crowley Lake – go see the Headless Miner.
Tour on two wheels! There’s no end of fun to be had on a motorcycle in and around the White Mountains. Go for a Ride Around the Block on a two-wheeled road trip that starts and ends at one of the best hot springs resorts in the region.
