California’s High Sierra Region’s eastern kingdom is filled with some of the Sierra’s most rugged and magnificent terrain.

The eastern Sierra stretches from Lone Pine in the south to the Nevada line in the north and contains many of the Sierra’s most awe inspiring settings. From the highest mountain in the lower U.S., Mount Whitney to the eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park, this side of the sierra is truly remarkable. Two major ski areas,the hauntingly beautiful Mono Lake, the world-class resort of Mammoth Lakes, Bodie Ghost Town, and much more compete for the visitors attention. Recreation opportunities abound with superb fishing, hiking and backpacking, boating, skiing (both downhill and crosscountry), snowmobiling, camping or just plain enjoying the scenery. First rate accommodations and restaurants complete the package. California’s High Sierra region’s eastern slope is an area not to be missed.



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Eastern Sierra Resources

Eastern Sierra Trip Picks

WinterWonderGrass Tahoe
Spring means your opportunities for a multi-sport day of adventure & fun in the California High Sierra are boundless. Start the day on the slopes followed by a warm bike ride & finish it off with any one of these amazing festivals.
skiing pow at homewood
Fancy a ski break away from the masses? Then be sure to take a close look at these 7 low-key destinations that turn out to be hidden gems in the High Sierra.
family skiing at Mammoth Mountain
Looking for something a bit different for a winter family getaway? You're in luck! The High Sierra's giant playground is home to one-of-a kind adventures that will create memories that will last a lifetime.
June mountain snowboarding views of California Alps on a winter day
Use this bucket list of High Sierra winter fun not as the be all or end all, but a diving board into the possibilities to be found in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
From ice fishing on Caples Lake to casting a line in the Lower Owens Valley, here's some some of the best winter fishing in California.
Mammoth Mountain Snowcat Tours
Regardless of what winter throws at the High Sierra or if you just need a break from skiing/snowboarding, here's a few fun ideas off the slopes that you can enjoy in the winter too.
Bear Valley in California High Sierra
From working remotely to a family getaway, these winter destinations will have you embracing warmth, sunshine, and snow instead of negative wind-chills and steel grey skies.
wheelchair accessible fishing pier in Mammoth Lakes California
From wheelchair getaways to a certified autism destination here's how the High Sierra is welcoming everyone to the region.
hospital rock in sequoia national park native american heritage month
As you take in the Sierra here's how you can honor and learn about all the nations that we're here before European settlers arrived.
Milk and cookies
From the foothills to the highest peaks, this is your chance to explore the many fun Christmas traditions going on throughout the High Sierra.
Thanksgiving pumpkin pie
Thanksgiving is about being thankful for what we have, and this year, we're thankful for these 9 great getaways in the High Sierra!
Tuolumne County Alicias Sugar Shack
8 fun things to do in November in California showing you pretty much have access to the full gambit of four-season fun in the High Sierra.
Bodie Ghost Towns of the High Sierra
For a perfect recipe to visit ghost towns AND enjoy nice weather at the same time come visit the High Sierra.
fall foliage on June Lake Loop
Crowds are gone, temps have cooled and most of all mother nature is putting on a show - here's the best fall camping trip locations in the Sierra this autumn.
Travertine Hot Springs Mono County
The High Sierra hot springs run the full gambit of amenities when it comes to rest and relaxation. From amenity-free to luxurious, you’ll find the pool that fits your needs. Come visit for a soak and create an adventure of your own.
Yosemite fall festival
Fall is THE time to visit the High Sierra. It's the season for local’s AND visitors alike to enjoy the peace, tranquility AND numerous fall festivals happening in the High Sierra.
Squaw Valley Oktoberfest in the high sierra beer steins
Grab your lederhosen or dirndl and get ready to celebrate Oktoberfest the right way… in the High Sierra!
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad Railroading Family Vacation Ideas in the High Sierra
Don't let the last glimmer of summertime pass you up without one more family trip to the High Sierra. Here are 7 family vacation ideas that will make everyone happy!
Autocamp near Yosemite National Park on a fall day
Experience the starry skies, listen to campfire stories, and all the best parts of camping without waking up to a sore back!
kennedy meadows relief reservoir high sierra alpine lake
Summertime is here so spark the wanderlust in your soul and get ready to take a dip at one of these scenic lakes in the High Sierra
twain harte high sierra california root beer
From a 20 ft tall root beer mug to a hotel that Mark Twain stayed in these underrated landmarks in the High Sierra are big in history, fun and let residents know they're home.
high sierra getaway
Scenic byways, roaring waterfalls, ghost towns that time forgot these romantic road trip getaways are the perfect break for summer routines.
kennedy meadows high sierra tuolumne county hiking
While there are activities that can challenge the fittest athletes, you don’t have to be one to enjoy what makes California's High Sierra special.
Eastern Sierra backpacking
Looking for beginner backpacking trips in California? Here's 9 of our favorites in the High Sierra to get you hooked on the sport for life!
Hensley lake during spring
The fishing is good. The temps are perfect. Spring is the best time to visit these year-round campgrounds in the Sierra.
Yosemite Falls High Sierra Waterfalls
From historic to iconic, the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range can arguably be considered the best place for viewing waterfalls in the world. This is just a drop in the bucket of the vast assortment of High Sierra waterfall beauty you can check out. What is your favorite on the list?   
Mokelumne River Canyon Calaveras County High Sierra Wildflowers
As winter fades away, it’s “high-time” to plan a trip to the Sierra Nevada and see the explosive color of High Sierra wildflowers that few other places can compete with.
best sunset sunrise california high sierra
Join the nation to celebrate National Park Week in California's High Sierra parks.
Climb on! Crags, boulders, and routes are just a foot hold away when rock climbing in California High Sierra.
Remove the stress and exhaustion from an adventurous experience and focus on making memories with these soft adventures in the High Sierra.
mariposa county, wild flowers, flower, poppy, poppies, lupine, grass, hills, spring, el portal, merced river, hite cove, cove, hites, trail, hike, explore, orange, green, damian
With over 1,450 species and a bloom that lasts over 6 months it can be difficult to find the displays of flowers. Here's the when and where to see wildflowers in the High Sierra so you can be informed ahead of time.
best california beers mountain rambler brewery bishop california
With such cold, clear, pure water to be accessed, it’s no surprise that these mountains hold many award winning breweries in the High Sierra. But don’t take our word for it.
northstar ski resort romantic getaway
Make this February holiday one to remember with these unique Valentine's Day trip ideas in the High Sierra.
Snowshoe in the High Sierra
Winter-time activities offer you clean-crisp air, snowbound vistas, lesser crowds and so much more. So, for this season, consider a snowshoe adventure in the High Sierra.
foodie road trip california high sierra
Spoil your inner foodie and try some of the tastiest food not just in the state of California but in the country!
mariposa california
Many mountain ranges have ski towns focused only on one time of year but that's not the case in the High Sierra. Here's 9 towns that prove our point.
Instead of beelining right to your cabin or hotel room, head to one of these fun theatres that dot the High Sierra. We guarantee they’ll paint magical memories to go along with the fun you have outside.
Mammoth Lakes Horseshoe Lake
Some say spring is the season of love, but autumn offers a lot for couples too. Here's a few ideas for a High Sierra fall romantic getaway.
On the West Coast there's no better place that captures the essence of autumn like here. If you're planning the perfect fall foliage getaway, then this list & some tips will help maximize your leaf peeping when in the High Sierra. Enjoy Mother Nature's display before it's too late.
Two children on horses overlooking the High Sierra
Giddy up! Hop on a horse this summer and truly feel the air, smell the foliage, and see the High Sierra’s beauty in a unique way.
unique adventures california high sierra
Go motor touring, explore a cavern, take Yosemite by Air - these nine unique adventures in the High Sierra will spark the wanderlust in your soul this summer.
Hot Creek geological site
Highway 395 makes for an epic eastern sierra road trip with sky-high peaks, steamy hot springs, hiking trails galore, and a plethora of historic mining and railroad towns.
Couple sitting on log near Fallen Leaf Lake
What's the weather in the Sierra Nevada like? What is there to do in each season? Learn what to pack. We cover everything so you're ready.
man hiking in South Lake Tahoe with view of mountains behind him
From frothing whitewater to hiking paradise this list of national forests in the High Sierra will inspire you to explore the great outdoors.
couple enjoying the evening
Go bouldering, soak up the sun, shred up the pow, or just go for a hike - here's 10 things that show you that you can do ANYTHING in the High Sierra in winter.
high sierra snowshoeing obsidian dome
Take one giant leap for some fun by heading out one of these amazing snowshoeing hikes in the High Sierra.
Columbia State Historic Park
Come celebrate and help preserve California's multitude of natural wonders and cultural heritage by visiting one of these state parks in the High Sierra.
california-high-sierra-bishop-hike-lake-sabrina-blue-lake-6
Go where you feel most alive - big trees, big sun, big mountains, big snow. The High Sierra California region is full of wonder that must be seen.
sequoia national park marble falls winter hikes in the high sierra
Scenic vistas, snow-capped peaks, & empty trails combine for an unforgettable experience like no other time of year.
best sunset sunrise california high sierra
From historic marvels to otherworldly landscapes, here's a taste of some of the best spots to get a sunrise/sunset photo in the High Sierra.
Downtown Murphys Go Calaveras
Learn about hidden gems in the Sierra Nevada for a special weekend (or week-long) getaway. Hiking, hot springs, historic towns, and lots more to recharge your relationship.
mercer caverns high sierra attractions
While the iconic destinations are a must for everyone to see here's a list of 6 lesser-known tourist attractions in the High Sierra that are worth the visit as well.
Bonsai Rock Instagramable Places In The High Sierra
It’s no secret that nearly every square inch of the Sierra Nevada is photogenic. And these seven Instagrammable places in California High Sierra definitely showcasing just that!
Glacier Point Road, Yosemite National Park
Make the journey the reward by checking out these roadside attractions in California High Sierra on your way to the National Parks.
Devils Postpile
If you’ve seen the must do attractions in the Sierra Nevada or just want to escape the crowds, these hidden gems in the High Sierra are a great option.
There’s something special about being on the trail, feeling the cool mountain air against your skin and the warmth of the sun hitting your face as you trek onward. It’s these moments in the outdoors that help re-energize your soul for the following week. So, instead of sitting at home wasting away on your couch, try one of these amazing High Sierra hiking trails.
east shore trail on Lake Tahoe
Get lost in the middle of nowhere with the one you love with these fun things to do in California for couples in the High Sierra.
kayaking in California High Sierra
Open water is a highway to adventure in the High Sierra, best traveled by Kayak.
Best Scenic Byways High Sierra Sierra Vista National Scenic Byway
The High Sierra isn’t just a place filled with many one-of-a kind wonders. It’s also a destination to remove the tension of city life. Get away from the mid-summer heat, the terrible traffic, and check out one of the many scenic byways in the High Sierra. Don’t let another weekend pass without a respite.
Mono Lake Eastern Sierra Family Fun
Join Shannon, (@rambleonwild), aka “Mom” to two mountain loving, desert roaming children as they explore the High Sierra from Bishop, CA, north, to the ghost town of Bodie. There is something great from everyone in a place as magical as the Eastern Sierra!
Eastern Sierra landscape with Bishop in the background
Help keep the High Sierra beautiful for generations by taking into account some of these responsible recreation tips for your travels.
Sequoia National Park Tunnel Log Driving
Each nook & cranny of the High Sierra is filled with unique things to see. These unique “gems” will inspire you to plan a trip today.
california wild west saloons
From Wild West Saloons to original tourist destinations, these bars aren’t just places to get a drink but an opportunity to soak up some history with your beverage.
lupine California flowers in the High Sierra during spring
Don't just stop & smell the roses identify all those wildflowers you see on a hike in the California High Sierra.
Alabama Hills in the spring
You could have a candle-lit dinner or buy flowers to express your love, but why not take it up a north and visit one of these places for a romantic spring getaway.
dog friendly hike Mt Tallac
Planning a trip with your four-legged family member to the California's High Sierra? Here's some of our favorite dog friendly hikes that you & your pup can enjoy.
South Lake Tahoe Camp Richardson Cross Country Skiing Mt Tallac Winter
Experience the unparalleled scenery, incomparable serenity and heaping amounts of fun you can have in the Sierra Nevada landscape.
California mountain region animals Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep
These animals, plants, fish, and vegetation call only the Sierra their home. These truly hardy folk don't just survive the feast or famine weather cycles... they thrive!
Zephyr Cove Snowmobile Center Snowmobiling In The High Sierra
It's no surprise that snowmobiling is an important part of winter fun in the Sierra Nevada. Here's a sampling of where to rev up that engine & enjoy the snow motorized style.
sledders with masks on in Lake Tahoe
Before you stuff the car and set off on your adventure, here’s a few things to consider before you depart.
Tahoe Donner Snowplay
Grab your sleds, shovels & winter coats and head to one of these hot or rather "cool" snow play family fun spots in the High Sierra.
oldest buildings in California High Sierra Gray's Station in Truckee California
These building aren’t just the oldest but a chance for a glimpse into the first individuals that migrated here and decided to call the High Sierra home. Like many after them, they came for opportunities and stayed for the beauty.
Carson Pass in Spring with wildflowers
Many come for the beauty and stay for the fun activities. But, these myths and legends of the California High Sierra will have you enchanted.
Obsidian Dome snowshoeing on a snowy winter's day
Even if you aren’t an adrenaline junkie or a snow lover these winter outdoor adventures in California High Sierra are a must for all.
Family riding chairlift at Heavenly Mountain with Lake Tahoe in the background
The upcoming 2020/21 ski season will be about flexibility and patience. Find out the latest info on what to expect this winter.
Bodie State Historical Park, Bodie, California
From ghost towns to ranger housing these present historic sites in the Sierra Nevada give us a fun glimpse into the past.
Aerial view of Mammoth Lakes California
Names of towns aren't just names... each has a story to tell. From card sharks to mining the history of how they got them is pure "gold."
Minaret Vista secluded roads
Remove the stress and anxiety and check out one of these mountain passes only open in the summer months.
1960 Squaw Valley Winter Olympics
From Olympic dreams to gold fever, here's 5 important dates in the High Sierra history that helped put California on the map both financially and internationally.
Historic Town Of Bodie
The Sierra Range may be home to a host of adventures but don’t skimp on checking out its unique past.
names of places in california
Just like a good meal, you may come for the main course of adventure... but like a good appetizer, the history of names of places in California High Sierra reveal a hidden and fascinating story.
California High Sierra Covid-19 Update
If planning to visit the High Sierra during COVID-19 do a little planning by checking these pages as a courtesy towards your fellow travelers & residents.
Teddy Roosevelt and John Muir at Glacier Point in Yosemite Valley
From the most famous to the trivial, John Muir's words inspire. Continue on to read "John of the Mountains" descriptions of places he saw and visited in the High Sierra.
fly fishing at Convict Lake
From decompressing in a B&B to enjoying the wilderness the High Sierra will make sure that you find the serenity you’re looking for.
Mark Twain
Was it the High Sierra and its wildness that shaped Mark Twain? Or, was it his words that painted a viewpoint of this place? Read on to find out.
obscure things to see in California
Looking for an unusual High Sierra break from big time adventures? Here are some quirky and unusual things to do in the rugged Sierra Nevada.
Hollywood in the High Sierra Historic Downtown Truckee
From romantic comedies to sci-fi flicks to American classics, the High Sierra has set the stage for many a film.
El Capitan shrouded in clouds
These 5 California documentaries about the High Sierra are both entertaining and edifying. 
Yosemite el cap view
Stay in touch with your friends & co-workers via video conferencing and show your love for the High Sierra by using one of these virtual backgrounds!
Snowy Eastern Sierra looking from downtown Bishop California
Join us in honoring the “SPIRIT OF TRAVEL” during National Travel & Tourism Week by expressing it in one of these ways or just provide a few words of encouragement that you’ll be back!
california-high-sierra-tuolumne-hetch-hetchy-reservoir-hike-wapama-falls-yosemite-national-park-3
Here's some fun and unique ways to enjoy the California High Sierra from a safe and social distance.
Solo Adventures
Take a trip that’s for you and by you and explore these epic solo adventures in the High Sierra.
High Sierra Yosemite National Park
Here's 10 Sierra Nevada mountain facts from the interesting to the quirky, and just downright bizarre you may not know about this iconic mountain range.
exterior of Tenaya Lodge
Looking for accommodations in the High Sierra? Consider one of our lodging partners listed below.
Bishop big horn sheep
From seeing endangered species to unparalleled views via cross country skiing or snowshoeing, you don’t want to miss out on these amazing guided winter hikes in the High Sierra.
woman in winter snowfall Lake Tahoe California
Don’t be Mr. Grinch this winter. Instead, here's 4 reasons to be like Olaf from Frozen and embrace the snowy fun in the High Sierra.
Mount Tallac
Soaring high above the world mountains proclaim a dominance over their surrounding landscapes. Don’t let another year fly by here's 4 mountain peaks to see in the High Sierra.
Bristlecone Pine Forest
We invite you to not just see the 7 Wonders of the High Sierra but also to experience them in all their splendor.
santa on a snowcat at alpine meadows
From being part of a world record torchlight parade or you’re boogieing it in 'til the early morning, there’s a New Year’s Eve celebration for you this December 31st in the High Sierra.
Bridalveil Fall Cathedral Rocks in Yosemite National Park Quintessential High Sierra
No matter when you visit, these High Sierra experiences provide a great sampling of what lurks in this part of California. As John Muir eloquently said, “The mountains are calling and I must go.”
Cave Rock Night Stars
The High Sierra is renown for its word-class skiing but there's much more to do here than just that in the winter. When you’re ready to take a break from the slopes or just not a big skier/snowboarder check out these awesome winter activities that aren't skiing or snowboarding.
gold panning California Gold Rush
Instead of reading about it in history books, why not experience the California Gold Rush in the High Sierra in person.
Castle Peak Bagging Sierra Nevada Truckee
This list of peaks to summit isn't the toughest or most grueling but rather to inspire you to try the activity known as peak bagging!
Birding In Yosemite Northern Pygmy Owl
Here's our list of favorite bird watching trails and sanctuaries in the High Sierra perfect for an afternoon well-spent among nature.
Via Ferrata
When venturing deep into the mountains visitors are looking for empty beaches, quiet roads, and a destination all to themselves. Discover the secret season in the High Sierra to get all that and more!
John Muir Wilderness
If you want to have nature all to yourself, don’t skip these cool wilderness areas in the High Sierra.
Yosemite National Park Night Sky
Did you know that 80% of humanity can't see the Milky Way? Fortunately, stargazing in the High Sierra gives you opportunity to see this and much more!
Fire works on Mammoth Mountain, CA
These events will keep you entertained & make sure you celebrate the America's independence the right way... with FUN!
Lake & River Cruises In The High Sierra
Enjoy water or just want to experience something different, look no further than a lake or river cruise in the High Sierra. These will create memories that will last a lifetime!
Bass Lake Fishing Derby
Make this fishing season one for the history books by entering a fishing derby in the High Sierra.
From road cyclists to avid mountain bikers, the High Sierra is home to an amazing assortment of trails. These are just four of the more unknown trails existing throughout the range. Stay tuned as we explore a few more cycling adventures across the wide ranging High Sierra country.
Webber Lake High Sierra Lake Fishing
Be the one that comes home with grand tales of the “monster” you caught and the envy of all your pals. When it comes to fishing, the lakes in the High Sierra offer you some of the best in the world.
Calaveras Frog Jumping Contest
From the crazy pack scramble to hot power sawing and even leaping frogs, these three High Sierra festivals showcase what makes this region so special.
Parker Lake Fishing in Mono County
Catching the “Big One” is a relaxing way to get away from the stress of everyday life and a picturesque way to get to know the California High Sierra. All you need is a little bait, maybe a boat and a love of the great outdoors to fish the High Sierra.
sequoia national park big trees hike
Don’t let another weekend or vacation pass by without exploring one of these many kid friendly activities in the High Sierra.
Majestic Yosemite Hotel Historic Lodges In The High Sierra
Historic lodges in the High Sierra are more than just a place to rest up between experiences. They qualify as destinations in their own right. Here's a glimpse into some of the most legendary.
With ski season slated to last through Memorial Day and a bright warm sun returning, spring is the season of adventure in every shape and size in the High Sierra.
off roading in the High Sierra
Get off the beaten path & explore the rugged side of the Sierra Nevada. You won’t regret it!
Christmas festivals in the high sierra
Get in the holiday spirit by checking out one of the many Christmas festivals in the High Sierra. From one-of-a kind experiences like the Bracebridge Dinner to festive parades.
Thunder Bird Lodge
High Sierra museums offer a unique glimpse at the history that exists in the Sierra Nevada. Both residents and visitors alike, will come away learning & truly appreciating the region that much more.
Bristlecone Pine Forest
Looking for a bucket list of natural wonders to see? Here's four worth exploring from the well-known to some hidden gems that exist deep in the High Sierra.
From first-timers to seasoned mountain bikers, these are just a sampling of the best lift-served / shuttle accessed mountain biking High Sierra has to offer. So, go ahead and plan a getaway to let yourself breathe the fresh air and melt your cares away along one of these epic trails.
Tahoe Mountain Brewing Truckee Tahoe City Microbrewery High Sierra Apres Skiing
Après & skiing have been intertwined since the advent of sliding down a mountain was perfected. Here's a few places you can enjoy a locally made brew, or for the less beer-inclined, a handcrafted organic cocktail as part of your Apres in the High Sierra.
Bike, ski, climb and paddle your way through the High Sierra during this epic weeklong road trip. Experience a night under the stars followed by a day discovering California’s unique dining options. Pack some camping gear and don’t forget to bring the camera on this east side adventure.
For those who like to play as hard as they work, the High Sierra offers plenty of opportunity. From late nights and live music in South Lake Tahoe to backcountry adventures in Yosemite National Park the adventure doesn’t stop until you throw in the towel.

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