Highway 395 is an adventurer's paradise, providing access to the breathtaking Eastern Sierra Mountains. This scenic road trip route is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of activities and attractions along the way. If you're planning a journey along Highway 395 and find yourself unsure of where to stop, this blog is here to help.

From Lake Tahoe to Alabama Hills, Highway 395 has become a destination for adventure seekers, offering stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities. But what do you do with all those sore muscles after a long day of hiking, skiing, or exploring? Fortunately, sprinkled throughout the 215-mile stretch of road and mountains, you'll find six different mineral-rich hot springs waiting to soothe and rejuvenate your adventure-beaten body.

Welcome to Alabama Hills, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of California's breathtaking Eastern Sierra Nevada range. This rugged and picturesque landscape has captivated visitors for decades with its unique rock formations, stunning vistas, and rich cinematic history. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Alabama Hills offers an array of experiences to satisfy every traveler's wanderlust. In this blog, we will guide you through the must-see attractions and activities that make Alabama Hills an unforgettable destination.

Sitting at 7,800 feet, Mammoth Lakes is a grouping of five high altitude lakes fed by snow melt in the Eastern Sierra Mountains. Close to Yosemite National Park, Mammoth is known for year round outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, skiing, rock climbing, and, of course, kayaking. These large alpine lakes are a stellar summer destination for flat water kayakers and fisherman who are looking to immerse themselves in a landscape that Bob Ross would paint.

Breaking our backs as we sling our packs over our shoulder, we locked the car and headed for one of the coolest camping spots I had ever seen. From photographs, we saw a chain of turquoise lakes surrounded by mountains. From the rumor mill, we heard the third lake was the best lake to sleep at, if you could secure your spot. We were ready for our three-day backpacking adventure into the North Fork of Big Pine.

Well, it is day three of this journey to climb-bike-climb from Freel Peak in Lake Tahoe to Mount Whitney. To be honest, I woke up feeling pretty good! My butt was a little bit sore from yesterday’s, but that is to be expected. Thankfully, I was able to soak in a hot spring last night at Travertine Hot Spring in Bridgeport, CA and get a good rest in the van.

Halfway between Lake Tahoe and Mount Whitney there are two lakes tucked away in the Eastern Sierra mountains filled with fish, readily available fishing, and a glassy waters that are asking to be paddled upon. Located in Bridgeport, California, Twin Lakes are a hidden gem perfect for a weekend get away, or a week long family camping trip. Not only does Twin Lakes have some of the best flatwater kayaking, accessible to all levels of kayakers, but there is stellar hiking, hot springs to soak in, and trees to hang a hammock.

Travertine Hot Springs is a wonderful stop for all those traveling along Highway 395. If you finished with a long hike, come pamper yourself. If you need time to reflect, bring a journal and enjoy a silent morning before the crowds arrive. If you need a place to sleep, there is dispersed camping around the area, so go for a soak and post up for the night, on forest service land, for a free night of camping. Be a kind human while at the hot springs and enjoy your warm soaks.

Are you looking to stand on the summit of a mountain in the Eastern Sierra on your next road trip? Perfect! You found the right place for a tick list. Below you will find 10 peaks, some obvious, some not so much, that have been challenging, enjoyable, and made my list of “Must Summit” peaks. Most of these peaks can be done in a single day of hiking, but are often made more enjoyable if you have the time for a backpacking trip. Regardless, park your vehicle at the trailhead and get started, the Eastern Sierra is calling!

DANG!! This was a cold one. Lake Sabrina is one of my favorite lakes to swim in during the summer, but I had not taken a dip in the winter… or late fall. When I say cold, I mean that I was shaking, my lips turned purple, and at some point, I ended up throwing up because I was so dang cold! Swimming in the Eastern Sierra during the winter was a fun challenge I am not sure I would take on for myself again. Once out of the water, I hunkered down in a sleeping bag, inside of my van, turned the heater on, and tried to warm up. Andrew was laughing at me the whole time!