Bishop – The Launching Pad For Two National Parks

Death Valley and Yosemite National Parks are like two bookends in the encyclopedia of wilderness fun at Bishop. Though only 300 miles apart, they couldn’t be more different in their scenery, ecology, and climate. And sitting nearly equidistant between these two places is Bishop, connected via a heavenly stretch of pavement. Even if you’ve visited Yosemite and Death Valley before, here’s how to experience them in a new way—Bishop-style.

Don’t Rush To Get There

Although the drive between Death Valley and Yosemite National Parks is only 170 miles, you should take a page from Bishop’s playbook and savor the journey. If you rush to your final destination, it means missing out on incredible sights like the tallest peak in the lower 48 or the oldest trees in the world. Even Bishop is more than just a “pit-stop” but rather a time capsule to a different era. Don’t believe us? Here are eight incredible adventures you can have between Death Valley and Yosemite National Parks.

Stairway To Heaven

Although Yosemite spans nearly 1,200 square miles, a majority of visitors concentrate on only the seven square miles of Yosemite Valley. The towering granite cliffs and awe-inspiring waterfalls are must-see sights, but for the summer months, it’s time to explore what John Muir called the “crown of Yosemite.” As the snow melts, visitors can access the Cathedral Range via Tioga Pass. Here, you’ll find the park’s highest mountains and most rugged terrain. The peak which lends its name to the range is derived from its cathedral-shaped summit. In addition to the peak, you’ll also discover lesser-known waterfalls, alpine lakes, and the striking Tuolumne Meadows.

Highway to Hell

In stark contrast to the lofty elevations of Yosemite, which can be buried under feet of snow, Death Valley is home to the continent’s hottest, driest, and lowest point: Badwater Basin. Don’t let these names and superlatives fool you. Death Valley is far from being “dead” and boasts a rich diversity of life. It’s filled with unique attractions such as Racetrack Playa, Zabriskie Point, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. A place so extraordinary and otherworldly, it’s sure to be one of the most memorable trips. Even so, Death Valley isn’t a park you just “wing it”. Make sure you come with a plan. To help you, Bishop has created the Ultimate Guide to Death Valley National Park.