Eastern Sierra Travel Guide

Get ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of Eastern Sierra with our detailed travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Eastern Sierra

Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, Eastern Sierra is truly a hidden gem. This region boasts endless stretches of ruggedly beautiful landscapes, natural wonders, and fascinating destinations to explore. From stunning alpine lakes to towering granite peaks, Eastern Sierra has something for everyone.

With a wide range of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and incredible scenery, it’s no wonder that Eastern Sierra is fast becoming a hot spot for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Eastern Sierra, from top attractions to hiking/biking routes, where to stay and what to eat. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Sierra

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mono Basin Historical Society: The Mono Basin Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural history of Eastern Sierra. Visit the historic buildings, dig up artifacts at the museum, and experience the local history and lore.

  • Mammoth Ski Museum: Located in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, the Mammoth Ski Museum is a fascinating museum displaying the history of skiing in the Eastern Sierra.

Natural Attractions of Eastern Sierra: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Yosemite National Park: Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic and beautiful natural wonders of the United States. Visit Yosemite to explore the giant sequoias, granite cliffs, and breathtaking waterfalls.

  • Mono Lake: The Mono Lake is a stunningly beautiful saltwater lake that offers incredible scenic views. The lake is a unique sight with other-worldly tufa towers and a diverse ecosystem.

  • Alabama Hills: Alabama Hills is a collection of massive rocks and boulders interspersed with rolling hills and vistas. The scenic beauty of this place is unparalleled, and it has served as an inspiration for many famous films.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Sierra

  • John Muir Trail: The John Muir Trail is a famous 211-mile hiking trail that stretches along the Sierra Nevada mountain range from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney. This trail is a challenge for experienced hikers but offers some of the most stunning views in Eastern Sierra.

  • Convict Lake Trail: The Convict Lake Trail is a moderate hike located just outside of Mammoth Lakes. This 3.5-mile trail offers fantastic views of the surrounding peaks and the stunning alpine lake.

Best Things to Do in Eastern Sierra: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Springs: Eastern Sierra is home to several natural hot springs that are open to visit and offer a unique experience. Relax in the natural hot waters of Travertine Hot Springs, Hilltop Hot Springs, or Keough Hot Springs.

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Eastern Sierra is home to some of the best ski resorts in California, including Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain, and China Peak.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Sierra

Day Destination
1 Drive to Eastern Sierra and visit Alabama Hills
2 Visit Mono Lake and hike the Mono Pass Trail
3 Explore June Lake and hike to Parker Lake
4 Explore Mammoth Lakes and visit Devil’s Postpile National Monument
5 Visit Yosemite National Park and hike the Mist Trail
6 Relax at Travertine Hot Springs
7 Drive back to Los Angeles

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Sierra

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burgers at The Eatery: The Eatery in Mammoth Lakes is a local favorite for the best burgers in town. Try the famous “Mammoth” burger with crispy onion rings and barbecue sauce.

  • Beef Stroganoff at the Red Lantern: The Red Lantern in Bishop is known for serving up classic American comfort food. Don’t miss their signature beef stroganoff, which locals say is the best in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Breweries in Mammoth Lakes: Mammoth Lakes is home to several craft breweries, including Mammoth Brewing Company, Black Doubt Brewing, and June Lake Brewing.

  • Wineries in Bishop: Bishop has several fantastic wineries, including Laws Family Wines and Parchers Resort Wines. Be sure to sample some of their award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in Eastern Sierra: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Mammoth Mountain Inn: Mammoth Mountain Inn located in Mammoth Lakes, is a ski-in/ski-out hotel with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

  • Tamarack Lodge: Tamarack Lodge in Mammoth Lakes is a rustic resort located in the mountains with cozy cabins and a private lake.

  • Innsbruck Lodge: The Innsbruck Lodge in Mammoth Lakes is a family-owned lodge with warm and inviting guest rooms and exceptional service.

What to Buy in Eastern Sierra: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Jams and Jellies from Mahogany Smoked Meats: Mahogany Smoked Meats in Bishop is famous for its delicious smoked meat and also offers a fantastic variety of jams, jellies, and treats.

  • Local Art from Mammoth Museum at the Hayden Cabin: The Mammoth Museum at the Hayden Cabin offers a great selection of local art and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Sierra

One of the most significant features of the area is the impact Native American culture has had on Eastern Sierra. Respect the environment and their sacred sites, be a good neighbor, and if you find any archaeological sites, leave them intact.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Sierra

The best time to visit Eastern Sierra is between spring and early summer (April to July) or late summer to fall (August to November). During these months the weather is mild, and outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping can be enjoyed.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Sierra

Do:

  • Respect wildlife and stay a safe distance from them.

  • Pack in and pack out all trash.

  • Bring enough water and supplies for your hikes and other outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave your campfires unattended, and always make sure they are extinguished before leaving.

  • Don’t pick wildflowers or disturb the environment.

  • Don’t try to pet or interact with the wild animals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Sierra

While Eastern Sierra is generally safe, visitors should take proper precautions when exploring the wilderness, including carrying a map, telling someone your itinerary, and being prepared for emergencies.

Health in Eastern Sierra

Make sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and drink water from reliable sources when hiking and camping. Be aware of altitude sickness when you travel to higher levels of the mountains.

Getting to Eastern Sierra: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eastern Sierra

  • Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH)

  • Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO)

Bus Stations Near Eastern Sierra

  • Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA)

  • Greyhound Station in Bishop

Other Options

The best way to explore Eastern Sierra is by car.

How to Get Around in Eastern Sierra

The best way to get around Eastern Sierra is by car, which gives you the flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. Several car rental companies are available.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Sierra: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bodie State Historic Park

  • Lake Tahoe

  • Mono County Ghost Towns

Conclusion

Eastern Sierra is an incredible place to visit, full of natural beauty and fascinating cultural attractions. With this comprehensive guide, you now have everything you need to plan your perfect trip to Eastern Sierra. Whether you’re heading there for a weekend getaway or making a more extended stay, there’s no doubt that you will fall in love with this picturesque region, and return home with memories that will last a lifetime.

Bodie State Historic Park Bodie State Historic Park


    Big Pine
    Devils Postpile National Monument
    Mono County
    Owens Valley