The Eastern Sierra refers to the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which is located in the western United States. The Eastern Sierra is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including rugged mountains, alpine lakes, pristine forests, and high desert terrain. It is home to several prominent peaks, including Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States. It’s a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking to escape into the great outdoors. Its diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities make it a year-round destination for outdoor adventures.
This region offers numerous outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, backpacking, camping, rock climbing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) passes through the Eastern Sierra, attracting long-distance hikers. Encompassing a vast area of the Eastern Sierra, Inyo National Forest offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, including access to the John Muir Wilderness and Ansel Adams Wilderness.
The Eastern Sierra is known for its natural hot springs, which are scattered throughout the region. Some of these hot springs are developed and offer amenities, while others are more remote and require a hike to reach.
There are several charming small towns and communities in the Eastern Sierra, including Bishop, Mammoth Lakes, Lone Pine, and Bridgeport. These towns serve as gateways to the outdoor adventures in the region.
Fall Colors: In the fall, the Eastern Sierra is known for its stunning display of autumn foliage, with aspen trees turning vibrant shades of yellow and orange.Here are five of the top hikes in the Eastern Sierra, along with descriptions, approximate mileage, and elevation gain:
Mount Whitney Trail:
Description: The Mount Whitney Trail is a challenging and iconic hike that takes you to the summit of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Eastern Sierra and requires a permit due to its popularity.
Mileage: Approximately 22 miles round trip.
Elevation Gain: Approximately 6,100 feet from the trailhead to the summit.
Big Pine Lakes Trail:
Description: This stunning hike in the Big Pine Creek drainage takes you to a series of pristine alpine lakes surrounded by towering peaks. The lakes are known for their vibrant blue colors and make for excellent photography opportunities.
Mileage: The hike can vary in length depending on how many lakes you choose to visit. The round trip to First Lake is approximately 7 miles, but you can continue to explore higher lakes for a longer hike.
Elevation Gain: Around 2,500 to 3,000 feet, depending on the lakes you reach.
Mammoth Crest Trail:
Description: The Mammoth Crest Trail offers panoramic views of the Eastern Sierra, including the Minarets and the Ritter Range. This ridge hike is known for its wildflowers and provides an excellent vantage point for sunset and sunrise.
Mileage: Approximately 4 miles round trip.
Elevation Gain: Approximately 900 feet.
Little Lakes Valley:
Description: Little Lakes Valley is a family-friendly hike with stunning alpine scenery. The trail takes you through a pristine valley with numerous lakes and provides opportunities for picnicking and fishing.
Mileage: Approximately 7-8 miles round trip if you explore several lakes within the valley.
Elevation Gain: Moderate, with an elevation gain of around 600-700 feet, depending on the specific lakes you visit.
Parker Lake Trail:
Description: The Parker Lake Trail is a relatively short and rewarding hike that leads to the beautiful Parker Lake. The lake is surrounded by forests and offers a peaceful setting for a picnic or a swim.
Mileage: Approximately 3 miles round trip.
Elevation Gain: Approximately 500 feet.
These hikes showcase the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of the Eastern Sierra. Remember to check trail conditions, obtain any necessary permits, and be prepared for changing weather conditions when embarking on these hikes.
Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding Eastern Sierra region are known for their natural hot springs. Here are five natural hot springs near Mammoth Lakes:
Wild Willy's Hot Springs:
Location: Just a short drive south of Mammoth Lakes off Highway 395.
Description: Wild Willy's Hot Springs consists of several small, natural pools along the shore of the Owens River. The water temperature varies in each pool, but they are generally quite hot. The views of the Eastern Sierra and the Owens River make this a popular spot.
Crowley Hot Springs (also known as Wild Willy's Hot Springs #2):
Location: Near Wild Willy's Hot Springs, accessible by a short hike along the Owens River.
Description: Crowley Hot Springs is another set of natural pools along the river, offering a quieter and more secluded experience than the nearby Wild Willy's. The pools vary in temperature, and the setting is tranquil.
Crab Cooker Hot Springs:
Location: Approximately 30 minutes south of Mammoth Lakes near the town of Bishop.
Description: Crab Cooker Hot Springs is a unique geothermal area with pools that vary in temperature. It's known for its colorful mineral deposits, and the surrounding landscape is starkly beautiful. The water can be extremely hot in some pools, so use caution.
Shepherd Hot Springs:
Location: Shepherd Hot Springs is located south of Mammoth Lakes, near the town of Independence.
Description: Shepherd Hot Springs is a series of natural hot pools set amidst the desert landscape of the Eastern Sierra. The pools are relatively remote, offering a peaceful and rustic hot springs experience.
Keough Hot Springs:
Location: Approximately 20 minutes south of Bishop, California.
Description: Keough Hot Springs is a developed hot springs resort with both hot and cold pools. While it's not a natural hot spring, it's a popular spot for relaxation and soaking, especially after a day of exploring the Eastern Sierra.
Please note that when visiting natural hot springs, it's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles, respect the environment, and follow any posted rules or regulations. Additionally, hot spring temperatures can vary, so use caution and test the water before entering. Some of these hot springs may also require a short hike to access.
