Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
lakes and hot springs galore. Endless outdoor activities - camping, hiking, rock climbing
and more - beckon beyond the asphalt.
Why Go?
This road trip is riddled with amazing geological spectacles, like the bizarre volcanic
formations at Mono Lake and Devils Postpile, as well as soaring Mt Whitney (14,505ft),
the highest peak in the lower 48 states. To unwind, spend an afternoon soaking in one of
the area's hot springs. Also along the way are fascinating historical sites like Bodie, a
gold-mining ghost town, and heartbreaking Manzanar, where 10,000 people of Japanese
ancestry were unjustly interned during WWII.
When to Go
June to September is peak season, although the shoulder months of May and June may be
snow-free at lower elevations. The golden fall foliage of aspen trees is beautiful during
October. Driving in winter isn't recommended, because roads can be icy and or even
closed by snow.
The Route
If you're coming from SoCal's deserts, pick up Hwy 395 south of Lone Pine. From the
north, Reno, Nevada is the closest major access point. Travelers coming from Yosemite
National Park via Hwy 120 over Tioga Pass (usually open from May or June to October or
November) intersect Hwy 395 at Lee Vining.
Best Detour
The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest (
Click here
)
has some of the oldest living trees on the
planet (one named Methuselah has been around for over 4700 years). It's a 22-mile drive
east of Big Pine via Hwy 168, then north on White Mountain Rd.
Time & Mileage
Three to five days, 350 miles
