Before the sun rose, we had our shorts on, bags packed, and towels slung over our shoulder. Andrew has the behemoth Muse Roamer that allows for a very plush life on the road, meanwhile I have modest comforts with a converted van. So, I crawled out of the van and headed into the heated Muse Roamer to enjoy coffee to wait for the best lighting.
When planning a trip along California's iconic Highway 395, make sure to stop at Convict Lake. Just 10 miles south of Mammoth Lakes, this Eastern Sierra alpine lake is at its best during the summer months. With warm weather, clear blue skies, and endless activities to enjoy, summer is the ideal season to experience all that Convict Lake has to offer. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this destination offers something for everyone.
Just ten miles south of Mammoth Lakes along Highway 395, Convict Lake is an alpine lake surrounded by rugged peaks waiting to be kayaked on. This glacially carved gem in Inyo National Forest is a favorite for outdoorsy people, offering year-round kayaking and paddleboarding. The lake’s mirror-like surface reflects the towering mountains, creating a breathtaking backdrop as you glide across the calm waters.
When I first got my hands on two Oru Kayak Lake, I had little to no kayaking experience. These foldable kayaks instantly reminded me of inflatable stand-up paddleboards because of their portability. They fold down into a compact package that fits in the back of a car, making them perfect for spontaneous adventures. My girlfriend, Kristin, and I decided to load them into our converted van and road trip along Highway 395 to test the Oru Kayak Lake.
Bridgeport, CA is a pass-through town along Highway 395 that’s filled with adventures, if you’re willing to stop. With one overpriced gas station, two coffee shops, a sandwich shop, and a general store that is rarely open, I didn’t think much of this town at first. But over time, a few of my favorite adventures led me to the outskirts of Bridgeport, CA, and I discovered it has much more to offer than meets the eye. This town is packed with activities like kayaking, rock climbing, hot spring soaking, backcountry skiing, camping, stargazing, and so much more. Below are just a handful of reasons to stop in Bridgeport, CA while road-tripping Highway 395.
There's a tranquil beauty that comes with gliding across the still surface of a calm lake, river, or pond, surrounded by nature's serenity. If you've ever been captivated by the idea of exploring these peaceful waters up close, then you're in the right place. Welcome to our beginner's guide on how to embark on the exciting journey of flatwater kayaking.
Located in the Inyo National Forest, Wild Willy’s Hot Springs is a natural wonder that attracts adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts year-round. If you're planning a trip to this hot spring, you're in for a treat! In this guide, we'll give you everything you need to know about visiting Wild Willy’s Hot Springs near Mammoth.
Hidden in the plain sight in the breathtaking Eastern Sierra region of California, Mammoth Lakes and its neighboring areas provide a perfect retreat for travelers craving tranquility, natural beauty, and rejuvenation. Among the area's most alluring features are the hot springs scattered along Highway 395, offering a serene and soothing escape amid stunning mountain views. Whether you're looking to soak in a natural mineral pool after a day of hiking or simply unwind surrounded by nature, these hot springs are an oasis worth exploring.
Emerald Bay, a stunning destination in Lake Tahoe, sits among the Sierra Nevada Mountains with its crystal-clear waters, dramatic landscapes, and captivating history. This enchanting bay draws visitors from around the world, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re planning a trip, here’s what you can look forward to.
We had a crazy idea, let’s road trip down Highway 395 in our self-converted van (watch the video tour of our dodge promaster 2500) with kayaks and explore as many bodies of water as possible. We only had a week, so how much could we cram into a single outing? We were not sure, but we wanted to try. So, would five bodies of water be too many, ten? Now, I’ll admit neither of us are good at kayaking, heck we can barely get in the kayaks without flipping, but that doesn’t matter. What matters is that we committed to the idea and have loads of fun along the way.
Lake Tahoe beckons adventure seekers year-round with its breathtaking landscapes and a plethora of outdoor activities. Whether you find yourself on the North or South shores, this iconic destination is a haven for those craving adrenaline-fueled escapades and serene moments in nature. Yet, amid its undeniable allure, Lake Tahoe grapples with a pressing challenge – overcrowding. The surge of visitors during peak seasons transforms this paradise into a bustling hub, prompting the need for savvy strategies to navigate the crowds and unearth the region's hidden treasures.
Movie Road stands as a testament to the enduring allure of cinematic history in the Alabama Hills of California. This iconic road has played a pivotal role in numerous Hollywood productions, attracting filmmakers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. From its rich history to its captivating scenery, Movie Road offers a unique blend of nostalgia and natural beauty that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
The Eastern Sierra, a rugged and captivating region in California, offer a mesmerizing landscape that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Stretching along the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, this area is a haven for outdoor activities, stunning vistas, and significant landmarks. In this article, we'll delve into what is considered the Eastern Sierras, highlight must-visit locations along the iconic Eastern Sierra Byway (Highway 395), and explore important landmarks that make this mountainous region of California a unique destination.
When it comes to exploring the picturesque landscapes and charming small towns of California, Bridgeport often flies under the radar. Tucked away in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, this quaint little town is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and rich history, there's no shortage of things to do in Bridgeport, CA.
In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through Bridgeport and highlight some of the must-see attractions and activities that make this town a perfect destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.
This gear not only enabled us to explore the stunning bodies of water in the region but also provided us with the necessary tools to embrace the great outdoors. Here's a list of the kayaking gear we packed for our journey:
It’s easy to get stuck in a box, or mentally trapped when a routine goes on for too long. So, in an effort to rewire our brains and start thinking outside of the box, again, we went for a road trip.
For years, I had dreamed of exploring Highway 395, starting at Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay and making our way south to a little lake off the beaten path called Convict Lake.
With a perfect weather window and just enough time over a long weekend, we packed up the van, stock the fridge with all sorts of goodies, and loaded up our Oru Lake Kayaks.
When it comes to scenic road trips, California offers an array of well-known routes that take travelers through some of the most iconic landscapes in the world. However, beyond the beaten path lie road trips that are just as spectacular, if not more so and the crowds are minimal.
In this article, we'll explore four such road trips that often don't get the attention they deserve, showcasing the hidden gems of the Golden State.
Welcome to the pristine haven of Sabrina Lake, where adventure meets serenity and nature beckons you to unwind. Nestled in the heart of the majestic Eastern Sierra Nevada, this stunning alpine lake offers a retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of exhilarating activities and unparalleled tranquility.