Bishop, CA, is a small town located in the eastern Sierra Nevada range in California. It is surrounded by spectacular natural beauty and offers numerous outdoor activities for adventure seekers. If you're planning to visit Bishop, CA, and wondering what to do around the area, this blog post is for you!
Offering a variety of adventurous activities for outdoor enthusiasts Bishop, CA has become a hub for adventure travel. Some popular activities include hiking in the Sierra Nevada range, rock climbing at the Buttermilks or the Happy Boulders, fishing in the Owens River or Crowley Lake, skiing at Mammoth Mountain, and stargazing in the nearby White Mountains. With so many options, Bishop is the perfect destination for anyone seeking outdoor adventure.
In this article, we will explore 6 adventure ideas that will make your trip to Bishop, CA, memorable.
Making the travers across the top of Mount Emerson in Bishop, CA. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Pros:
Natural Beauty: Bishop, CA is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Sierra Nevada range, alpine lakes, and the Owens Valley.
Outdoor Activities: The town offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, fishing, skiing, and stargazing.
Small Town Charm: Bishop is a small town that offers a laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Accessible Location: Bishop is located off Highway 395 and is easily accessible by car. It is also within driving distance of several popular attractions, such as Yosemite National Park and Death Valley National Park.
Cons:
Limited Services: Bishop is a small town with limited services and amenities, so visitors should come prepared with everything they need for their stay.
Extreme Weather Conditions: The area can experience extreme weather conditions, such as high winds, snow, and heatwaves, so visitors should plan accordingly.
High Altitude: Some of the popular activities in the area, such as hiking and skiing, are at high altitudes, which can be challenging for some visitors.
Seasonal Tourism: The town experiences high volumes of tourists during the summer and winter months, which can make it challenging to find lodging or book activities during peak season.
Hiking:
Bishop, CA, is a hiker's paradise, with numerous trails offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Hiking in Bishop offers an opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in California, including the Inyo National Forest, the John Muir Wilderness, and the White Mountains. However, it is important to note that some of the trails are at high altitudes and can be challenging, so hikers should be prepared for the conditions.
Before embarking on a hiking adventure in Bishop, it is essential to do some research and come prepared with the necessary gear. Hikers should bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, and dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. It is also a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out, as the area can experience sudden storms and high winds. With these tips in mind, here are six recommendations for hiking trails in Bishop, CA:
Hiking Suggestions
Sabrina Basin Trail: This 9-mile round trip hike takes visitors through stunning alpine scenery and past several pristine lakes.
North Lake to Lamarck Col: This challenging 19-mile round trip hike takes visitors over a high pass and past stunning alpine lakes and meadows.
Bishop Pass Trail: This moderate 10-mile round trip hike offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada range and leads hikers to several alpine lakes.
Buttermilk Country Loop: This easy 2-mile loop takes visitors through a unique landscape of granite boulders and is suitable for all skill levels.
Little Lakes Valley Trail: This moderate 7.5-mile round trip hike offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and leads hikers to several pristine alpine lakes.
McGee Creek Trail: This moderate 5.5-mile round trip hike follows a creek through a beautiful canyon and leads hikers to several scenic waterfalls.
Rock Climbing:
Bishop, CA, is a world-renowned destination for rock climbing, offering some of the best bouldering and sport climbing in the United States. The area is famous for its high-quality granite rock, challenging routes, and stunning scenery. However, it is important to note that rock climbing in Bishop requires experience, skill, and proper safety equipment, and beginners should consider taking a class or hiring a guide before attempting any climbs.
When planning a rock climbing trip to Bishop, climbers should make sure to come prepared with the necessary gear, including a helmet, harness, ropes, and climbing shoes. It is also important to check the weather conditions before heading out, as the area can experience high winds and sudden storms. With these tips in mind, here are seven recommendations for rock climbing areas in Bishop, CA:
Climbing Areas Suggestions:
Buttermilks
The Happy Boulders
Owen's River Gorge
The Sads
The Druid Stones
The Happies
The Steinfell's Dome
Fishing:
As a premier fishing destination that offers a wide range of fishing opportunities, including fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing, the Bishop area is home to numerous rivers, streams, and lakes, including the Owens River, Crowley Lake, and the Sabrina Basin. Fishing in Bishop offers an opportunity to catch a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. However, it is important to note that fishing in Bishop requires a valid California fishing license, which can be obtained online or at local tackle shops.
When planning a fishing trip to Bishop, anglers should come prepared with the necessary gear, including a fishing rod, reel, and bait. It is also important to check the local fishing regulations before heading out, as some areas may have specific restrictions or catch limits. With these tips in mind, here are seven recommendations for fishing spots in and around Bishop, CA:
Suggested Fishing Spots:
Owens River
Crowley Lake
Sabrina Basin
South Lake
North Lake
Rock Creek Lake
Convict Lake
Skiing:
Bishop, CA, is a popular skiing destination, offering access to world-class ski resorts and backcountry skiing opportunities. The area is home to several ski resorts, including Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain, and the Bishop Creek Lodge. These resorts offer a variety of terrain, ranging from beginner to advanced, and are known for their stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. However, it is important to note that skiing in Bishop requires proper equipment, including skis or snowboards, boots, helmets, and warm clothing.
When planning a ski trip to Bishop, skiers should come prepared with the necessary gear and check the weather conditions before heading out. It is also important to note that backcountry skiing requires experience, skill, and proper safety equipment, and skiers should consider hiring a guide or taking a class before attempting any backcountry runs. With these tips in mind, here are some recommendations for skiing in Bishop, CA:
A Few Places to Stay while Skiing around Bishop, CA:
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
June Mountain Ski Resort
Bishop Creek Lodge Ski Resort
Rock Creek Lodge Ski Resort
McGee Creek Lodge Ski Resort
Tamarack Lodge Ski Resort
Grouse Mountain Ski Resort
Hot Springs:
Bishop, CA, is home to a variety of natural hot springs, providing a relaxing and therapeutic experience for visitors. These hot springs offer an opportunity to soak in mineral-rich waters, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. However, it is important to note that many of these hot springs are located in remote areas and may require a bit of hiking or off-road driving to access.
When planning a trip to the hot springs around Bishop, visitors should come prepared with the necessary gear, including towels and bathing suits. It is also important to note that many of these hot springs are located on public lands and require visitors to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and following all posted regulations. With these tips in mind, here are some recommendations for hot springs in and around Bishop, CA:
Hot Springs Around Bishop, CA:
Keough Hot Springs
Benton Hot Springs
Hilltop Hot Springs
Crowley Hot Springs
Buckeye Hot Springs
Stargazing:
Bishop, CA, is known for its dark skies, making it an ideal destination for stargazing. The area is home to several stargazing spots that offer unobstructed views of the night sky, including the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, the Buttermilk Boulders, and the Crowley Lake Overlook. These spots are known for their stunning views of the Milky Way, shooting stars, and other celestial objects. It is important to note that stargazing in Bishop requires clear skies, so visitors should check the weather conditions before heading out.
When planning a stargazing trip to Bishop, visitors should come prepared with warm clothing, a blanket or camping chair, and a red flashlight, as white light can interfere with night vision. It is also important to note that many stargazing spots are located in remote areas and may require a bit of hiking or off-road driving to access. Visitors should also practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.
If visitors are looking for a more guided stargazing experience, the Owens Valley Astronomy Club offers public stargazing events throughout the year. These events provide an opportunity to learn about astronomy and stargaze with experienced astronomers. Overall, Bishop, CA, offers some of the best stargazing in California and is a must-visit destination for astronomy enthusiasts.
Soaking in the mountain views somewhere outside of Bishop, CA. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Bishop, CA, offers numerous outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Whether you're a hiker, rock climber, fisherman, skier, or stargazer, there's something for everyone in this small town located in the eastern Sierra Nevada range. Plan your next adventure in Bishop, CA, and discover the natural beauty of this spectacular region.
