The morning is cold and overcast, but I still wanted to soak in a hotspring before taking off on the bike once again. I’m feeling groggy, my legs are sore, and my butt has started to feel the pain of this trip, bikepacking from Lake Tahoe to Mount Whitney. It’s day four.

Welcome to the Eastern Sierra, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of California's captivating landscape. Here, amidst towering peaks, glistening lakes, and untouched wilderness, awaits an outdoor haven that beckons hikers from far and wide. With its unparalleled beauty and a tapestry of breathtaking trails, the Eastern Sierra is a hiker's paradise like no other.

Welcome to the breathtaking realm of the Eastern Sierra, a realm where rugged peaks kiss the cerulean sky, crystal-clear lakes mirror the towering majesty of the surrounding mountains, and vast stretches of untamed wilderness beckon adventurers from far and wide. Nestled along the eastern edge of the mighty Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, this enchanting region is a true haven for nature lovers, photographers, hikers, and those seeking solace in the embrace of untouched landscapes.

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.

Nestled in the Sherwin Range of the Sierra Nevada, Convict Lake, with its turquoise-blue waters and dramatic mountain scenery, is a remarkable destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Its name, steeped in an intriguing history of convicts and shootouts, adds an element of mystery to its natural beauty. Carved out by glaciers, the lake is among the deepest in the Sierra Nevada mountains and is enveloped by a box canyon set in the mountains. The landscape is dominated by light-colored granite, the result of a deep geological history involving magma, sedimentary rocks, and extreme heat and pressure. Moreover, the lake holds cultural significance as well, being known as Wit-sa-nap to the Paiute Indians, whose legends fill the place with a spiritual ambiance.

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.

Are you looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and small-town charm? Look no further than Highway 395, a scenic byway that stretches along the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada range in California. This road trip is an epic journey through a landscape of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and wide-open deserts. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, Highway 395 is a must-see destination that should be on everyone's bucket list.

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.

Now that you have discover where these flat water locations are, what makes them special, and additional activities in the area, it is time for you to explore the best flat water kayaking in Northern California for yourself.

California is packed with lake hikes that will blow your mind, especially in the Eastern Sierra Mountains. The best part of lake hiking in the Eastern Sierra is the access. From remote lakes tucked days away in the mountains to roadside lake hikes, any hiker can find something for themselves during a visit to the Eastern Sierra. As a kid, I grew up in the foothills of Lake Tahoe wandering around the Eastern Sierra, exploring lake hikes, and embracing the often chilly mornings while searching for gorgeous landscapes. So, what happens when you put the calm of a cold morning and an extraordinary lake hike together? Scroll down below and discover the best lakes hikes of the Eastern Sierra for yourself!

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!

Highway 395, the scenic road which gives you access to the Eastern Sierra, stretches from Palm Springs to Mount Shasta. This old trade route has now become the land of adventure for many reasons. The famous black and white photographer, Ansel Adams, main body of work is based throughout the Eastern Sierra. Mount Whitney, the highest point in the continental US can be gawked at from the highway.

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!

It All Begins Here

It All Begins Here