When someone asks “Where are the best views in California?”, it can be tough to answer. Sure, the coastline has its charms, but to us, the Sierra Nevada takes the crown. These mountains are a photographer’s dream from every angle. From towering Giant Sequoias to the topaz blue waters of Lake Tahoe, the Sierra Nevada inspires awe in everyone, even the most stoic. Need a little more convincing? Here are 11 views in the High Sierra that you simply cannot miss and that prove our point!
Heavenly Observation Deck
South Lake Tahoe
With 72 miles of shoreline, there really is no bad view of Lake Tahoe. But to fully appreciate its grandeur, you need to go up high, and the Heavenly Mountain Observation Deck is the perfect place. Starting from the shores of Lake Tahoe, Heavenly’s gondola takes you on a quick 12 minute ride up to an impressive 8,100 feet above sea level. When you step off the gondola onto the observation deck, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the lake.
Once you’ve taken it all in, continue your journey to Tamarack Lodge. Whether it’s summer or winter, there’s plenty to do even if you don’t ski, including the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster, scenic hiking trails and plenty of skiing.
McGlashan Point
Truckee
Truckee’s spirit is all about adventure and enjoying the journey. A perfect example is Old Highway 40, which begins just past Donner Lake and climbs quickly up to Donner Summit. Along the way, interpretive signs share stories of early travelers and the bridge’s role in California’s transportation history.
Along this same highway, you’ll find one of Truckee’s most underrated landmarks, McGlashan Point. From there, you get sweeping views of Donner Lake below and the rugged Sierra peaks that surround it. Just a little past the lookout, be sure to stop at the iconic Donner Summit Bridge, also known as Rainbow Bridge.
Mono Lake Scenic Viewpoint
Lee Vining
Throughout the Eastern Sierra, especially along Highway 395, there are countless viewpoints. One of the easiest and most breathtaking stops is the Mono Lake Scenic Viewpoint, just south of Conway Summit. From here, you can see the ancient waters of Mono Lake nearly 1,000 feet below.
The viewpoint offers a bird’s eye view of the Mono Basin and surrounding Sierra. Black Point, a volcanic cone on the northwest shore, formed about 13,300 years ago when Mono Lake’s water level was higher. Paoha Island, much younger, formed just 300 years ago when lake bottom sediments were pushed up by volcanic activity.
For a closer look at the shoreline and the iconic Tufa Towers, visit the Mono Lake Visitor Center on the north shore.
Hot Creek Geological Site
Mammoth Lakes
Did you know the Sierra Nevada form the eastern edge of the Pacific Ring of Fire? Just 15 minutes from Mammoth Lakes, the Hot Creek Geological Site offers jaw dropping views of a rocky river gorge filled with steaming, bubbling hot springs.
Surrounded by layers of travertine rock and wrapped in a misty steam veil, this otherworldly scene sits beneath the towering peaks of the Eastern Sierra making it a must see for anyone chasing epic landscapes.
Beetle Rock
Sequoia National Park
The giant trees may be the stars of Sequoia National Park, but the park also hides a few lesser-known treasures, especially its stunning views. Beyond the famous Moro Rock, one often overlooked (pun intended) spot is Beetle Rock. A quick, stroll right from your car is all it takes to reach the overlook.
Beetle Rock is particularly magical at sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, shades of orange and yellow fill the sky, and the distant lights of the San Joaquin Valley begin to sparkle. A view that will truly take your breath away.
Mt Tom from Round Valley
Bishop
Looming above the town of Bishop like a guardian, Mt. Tom’s first name is fitting. Winuba, meaning “Standing Tall” in Owens Valley Paiute (Nüümü), perfectly describes this majestic peak that dominates the town’s skyline. One of the best places to admire Mt. Tom is from Round Valley, especially between Pine Creek Road and Lower Rock Creek Road.
The view of Mt. Tom changes beautifully with the seasons. In spring, wild iris bloom across the valley, their petals dancing in the wind as if celebrating the new season. Summer invites early risers to cycle through the valley as the first light of day paints the peak in golden hues. Fall offers an easy hike surrounded by vibrant foliage, while winter transforms the mountain into a striking, snow-covered masterpiece—its ridges and valleys sharply defined in the cold light.
Washburn Point
Yosemite
Choosing just one view in Yosemite that you must see is a real challenge. There are the classics, like Glacier Point, which overlooks Yosemite Valley. Then there is Tunnel View, perhaps the most famous scene in all of Yosemite, immortalized by Ansel Adams.
Olmsted Point offers the first glimpse of Half Dome from Tioga Pass, while the lesser-known Washburn Point also deserves attention. Located just three quarters of a mile before Glacier Point, it provides a slightly different angle on the iconic view of Half Dome. From here, you can also enjoy a unique perspective on Vernal and Nevada Falls and understand why their granite formation are often called the “giant staircase.”
Historic Stateline Fire Lookout
Crystal Bay – Lake Tahoe
After the large forest fires of 1910, fire lookouts were built up and down the High Sierra to spot potential fires throughout the summer. A major boom in their construction came during the Great Depression, when the Civilian Conservation Corps built many of them, including the Stateline Fire Lookout above Crystal Bay.
Although the lookout itself was dismantled in 2002, the easy, paved trail to the site remains a perfect hike for families. The 1.5-mile loop gains just 291 feet in elevation and rewards hikers with excellent south-facing views over Lake Tahoe, along with a short interpretive trail that circles the rim of the vista. With its low effort and big scenic payoff, it’s one of the must-do hikes when visiting North Lake Tahoe.
North Grove Trail
Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Giant sequoias aren’t found only in California’s national parks. The first recorded European sighting of these giants occurred at Calaveras Big Trees State Park in 1852. Since then, its two groves have become a popular destination and are now protected for future generations. Together, they form the largest uncut giant sequoia grove in the state, with over 1,100 mature trees.
For a closer look, the North Grove Trail offers an easy, family friendly 1.5 mile (2.3 km) loop through a mixed forest. In spring, dogwoods bloom beautifully, and in fall their leaves turn brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red. Learn more about what to see by reading Calaveras County’s article on the park.
Donnell Vista
Sonora Pass
Sonora Pass is one of those roads where, if you don’t slow down and take your time, you might miss what makes it so special. One perfect example is Donnell Vista. This short, half-mile out-and-back paved trail leads to a breathtaking overlook of the Middle Fork in the Stanislaus River Canyon. Nearly 1,350 feet below lies the Donnell Reservoir, framed by the rugged Dardanelles and distant mountain peaks. The view feels like a glimpse into a hidden canyon few ever discover.
Continue just eight miles east on Sonora Pass, and you’ll reach one of the Sierra’s must-see natural wonders: the Columns of the Giants.
Mile High Vista
North Fork
California is home to countless scenic byways, and some are even recognized at the federal level, like the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway. This nearly 100 mile drive (82.7 miles to be exact) takes you through what many call the “Secret Yosemite.” The byway provides access to the upper segments of the San Joaquin River basin, carved long ago by glaciers.
Along the way, you’ll encounter massive granite domes such as the Fresno Dome, majestic peaks, and expansive high mountain meadows. The route is dotted with attractions worth stopping for, including Jesse Ross Cabin, Arch Rock, and Globe Rock.
The drive culminates at the Mile High Vista. True to its name, this panoramic viewpoint sits 5,300 feet above sea level and offers sweeping views of the surrounding Sierra landscape and is one of the best spots for stargazing in the county.
Author: Alex Silgalis
Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
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