Inyo County Travel Guide

Explore Inyo County, California with our comprehensive travel guide - from natural landmarks to cultural attractions and everything in between.


Introduction to Inyo County

Inyo County, located in the heart of the Eastern Sierra region, is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It is home to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, which contains some of the oldest trees in the world, and Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States. In addition, Inyo County has a rich cultural history, with several museums and historical landmarks showcasing the life and growth of the area.

List of Places to Visit in Inyo County

When planning a visit to Inyo County, there are several must-see destinations to add to your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Inyo County is home to several museums and historical landmarks that offer insight into the area’s rich culture and history.

  • The Eastern California Museum in Independence is a great starting point for exploring the area’s history, with exhibits on the Paiute Native Americans, the California Gold Rush, and more.
  • Manzanar National Historic Site offers a poignant look at Japanese American internment during World War II.
  • The Laws Railroad Museum and Historical Site in Bishop showcases the life and times of a small, early twentieth-century western town along with its railway.

Natural Attractions of Inyo County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Inyo County’s natural beauty is unparalleled, with towering mountains, crystal clear lakes, and vast deserts. Here are some popular natural attractions you may want to include on your next visit:

  • Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is one of the oldest living things on earth and offers an impressive insight into the age-old natural beauty of Inyo County.
  • Mount Whitney, iconic and California’s highest peak, is an incredible climb to anyone brave enough to make it to the top.
  • Alabama Hills, near the town of Lone Pine, offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and features unusual rock formations, unique geographical features of the area’s geography you can’t miss.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Inyo County

Exploring Inyo County’s remarkable landscapes is even more exciting on foot or by bike.

  • The Mammoth Crest Trail in Mammoth Lakes is an 8-mile hike for expert hikers seeking spectacular mountains scenery.
  • The Alabama Hills Trail is a beautiful moderate hike, with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and encompasses much of the unique geological landforms of the area.
  • The Owens River Trail is a multipurpose trail that’s perfect for both hiking and biking and runs around the scenic Owens River.

Best Things to Do in Inyo County: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Inyo County, from exploring national parks to taking scenic drives.

  • The Death Valley National Park is a unique and fascinating area is a great destination for exploring when in Inyo County, showcasing its desert terrain shows the natural beauty of the county.
  • The Bodie State Historic Park offers an exciting insight into the lively mining town in the 1800s where you can explore preserved buildings.
  • A drive along the US Route 395 is a recommended scenic experience.
  • Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort transforms into a mountain biking haven in the summer, with world-class trails for all skill levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Inyo County

To best explore all the natural and cultural attractions that Inyo County has to offer, here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay:

  • Day 1: Drive the US Route 395, stopping at the Alabama Hills Trail for a hike and taking photos as you go along.
  • Day 2: Visit the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest and explore the Schulman Grove Visitor Center.
  • Day 3: Hike the Mammoth Crest Trail in the morning, followed by a scenic drive through the Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area in the afternoon.
  • Day 4: Tour the Laws Railroad Museum and Historical Site and head to Manzanar National Historic Site for an immersive history lesson.
  • Day 5: Take on the challenge of hiking Mount Whitney (reservations required!)
  • Day 6: Visit the Bodie State Historic Park, then take a dip in one of the scenic hot springs in the area.
  • Day 7: Wrap up your trip with a visit to Death Valley National Park, including hiking at Zabriskie Point and salt flat exploration in the park - an impressive way to end your Inyo County adventure.

Food and Drink Scene of Inyo County

With so much to see and do in Inyo County, there are plenty of options to indulge in the local cuisine:

Must-Try Dishes

There isn’t any notable local cuisine in Inyo County, but a trip to any local restaurants is a great way to experience the area’s culinary culture. One notable dish for any history buffs visiting the area is the Paiute Fry Bread, a Native dish that has been made for hundreds of years.

Local Beverages

If you’re looking for a place to grab a drink after a long day of exploration, check out a craft brewery in the area.

  • Mammoth Brewing Company located in Mammoth Lakes, is known for its exciting beer flavors and collection of cocktails.
  • Black Doubt Brewing Company, for award-winning beers, is also a great destination to experience the unassuming, small-town feel of Inyo County.

Where to Stay in Inyo County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

When visiting Inyo County, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. During peak months booking, lodging in advance is highly recommended.

  • For affordable accommodation, check out Tioga Lodge in Lee Vining, which has budget-friendly rooms and cleaned spaces.
  • The Dow Villa Motel in Lone Pine is an excellent option for historical lovers seeking to experience the surroundings as they’re decorated with local themes.

What to Buy in Inyo County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Inyo County, be sure to bring back some souvenirs as a memento of your trip.

  • The Eastern California Museum gift shop and Mount Whitney gift shops are great places to start your shopping.
  • Inyo County is also known for its artisanal soaps, honey, and crafts, all of which make a great souvenir that truly captures the local culture and atmosphere.

Local Culture and Customs of Inyo County

Inyo County is a unique destination, with its landscape, nature, and fascinating history, all of which combine to create a vibrant culture. Some important aspects of the local culture that visitors should know about include:

  • The tribal communities, including the Paiute Indian Tribe of the Bishop Community, have been an integral part of the area’s culture for hundreds of years and continue to play a vital role in its development.
  • Inyo County is also immersed in rich cowboy culture where you can explore it through local rodeos and events.

Best Time to Visit Inyo County

The best time to visit Inyo County is during the fall, from September through November, as the weather is typically mild and pleasant. The spring also offers a beautiful, albeit a bit cooler, experience of the mountains and less-crowded national parks. The summers in Inyo County are hot and crowded, making it a less ideal time for some people to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Inyo County

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to follow when visiting Inyo County:

Do:

  • Respect the nature and wildlife by participating in eco-friendly activities, such as responsible hiking and leaving behind no trash.
  • Plan your itinerary thoughtfully keeping the weather in mind opting for comfortable clothing, water, and other necessary items for outdoor activities in the area.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter during your stay in the area.
  • Do not swim in Owens Lake or other bodies of water you’re not aware of, for safety reasons.

Safety and Health

Exploring the outdoors has its share of risks, so keep these safety and health guidelines in mind to ensure a safe and healthy visit to Inyo County.

Safety in Inyo County

  • Always check weather conditions for any unexpected storms or weather shifts.
  • Watch out for wildlife, as Inyo County is home to cougars, bears, and other potentially dangerous animals.

Health in Inyo County

  • Bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration during physical activities.
  • Be mindful of altitude sickness if hiking Mount Whitney or visiting any location at a high altitude.

Getting to Inyo County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Inyo County is easily accessible by car, and several airports are near the region.

Airports Near Inyo County

Some popular airports near Inyo County include Mammoth Yosemite Airport, Inyo County Airport, and Bishop Airport. Flyers can also opt to travel through Los Angeles, flying into LAX and getting to the county from there.

Bus Stations Near Inyo County

Greyhound Bus Lines offers bus service to several locations close to Inyo County: Bishop and Lone Pine.

Other Options

Car rentals are available at major airports and cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Las Vegas.

How to Get Around in Inyo County

Being a small county, Inyo County is easy to get around by car. If exploring natural landmarks is on the itinerary, renting a car or an ATV or bike is the best way to easily maneuver through the terrain.

Where to Go Next from Inyo County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Inyo County is a great jumping-off point for several other destinations in the area. Mono Lake, Sequoia National Park, Yosemite National Park all make for a great continuation of your exploration in California.

Conclusion

Inyo County is a unique destination filled with history, culture, and impressive natural beauty. A visit to this county is not complete without exploring its native heritage, hiking spots, and visiting historical monuments. So pack your bags and get ready to experience all that Inyo County has to offer.



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