The Eastern Sierra Tour, affectionately known as E.S.T., is a captivating 555-mile route showcasing a blend of breathtaking scenery and rich historical landmarks. While many embark on this journey during summer, exploring it in the colder months unveils a one-of-a-kind experience that’s not to be overlooked. Here are compelling reasons why a winter tour of the E.S.T. should be at the top of your list.
Willkommen, Bienvenue, Welcome Tips To All Our Foreign Visitors
Bishop stands out as one of the few towns left to strike a perfect balance between tight-knit community yet easy access to the great outdoors. With 99% of the land in Inyo County being publicly owned, this gives Bishop an expansive backyard that’s beyond imagination. Craig London, owner of the Rock Creek Pack Station, shares his deep affection for Bishop and why you should enjoy the simple things in life.
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.
California’s heartbeat is intertwined with the Pacific Ocean. From its iconic surf culture to its climate, it weaves itself into everything. Despite Bishop and the Eastern Sierra being hundreds of miles from the coast, it too is affected by it. And you’ll see it in its weather and seasons including the “Sierra Wave.”
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.
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!
The world’s oldest living tree is in the National Forest White Mountains in California, USA, just east of Bishop, California.
Think of it as the opportunity to experience the Eastern Sierra in a new light without putting yourself at risk or having to learn an entire set of skills to do it. Explore somewhere new while feeling invigorated and transformed by memorable experiences. Here’s a small sampling of soft adventures to be had in Bishop.
The heat is on in Bishop. But unlike other hot locales, there are many ways to still enjoy the great outdoors in the summer, if you have a plan. As the saying “it’s a dry heat” goes… due to our proximity to the High Sierra and the desert climate, you can escape by going out early, taking a dip in an alpine lake, or go up in elevation to play. Here’s a few ideas on how you can sample Bishop’s Big Backyard this summer during the day.
First stop on the Eastern Sierra Ale Trail from the south – Bishop and Mountain Rambler Brewing. Home to a vast array of award-winning beers from the California Craft Brewers Cup and the Great American Beer Festival.
From the city of Independence to the town of Mammoth Lakes, with Bishop midway between you’ll find pancake breakfasts, parades, free fishing, free swimming, train rides, a running race, baseball, volleyball, bocce, free watermelon, pie and ice cream, arts and crafts fairs, and of course fireworks – lots and lots of fireworks!
If you’re planning a trip to Bishop, there’s no better way to deepen your understanding of this special place than through reading.
For visitors attempting to traverse the mighty Sierra, be aware that many of the mountain passes (including those from Yosemite National Park) are closed from the 1st snowfall until the snow melts. This means many of the passes may not open until June or even July.
Regardless if you’re an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or just a nature lover, Bishop and the Eastern Sierra has something for you. Take yourselves on this journey of E.S.T. – the highest, lowest, hottest, oldest, saltiest, rockiest, earliest, purest, strangest, loneliest, and wildest 555-Mile Road Trip of the Eastern Sierra.
Pick your path along these inspirational story maps that inform and inspire.
Flip through the pages of the new Bishop Information Guide! Or Download a FREE Visitor Guide or request one sent to your home today.