Did you know Inyo County is home to both the highest point in the contiguous United States (Mount Whitney at 14,505 feet) and the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin at 282 feet below sea level) — all within just 85 miles of each other? This land of dramatic extremes offers some of California’s most breathtaking landscapes and unique outdoor adventures.
Getting to Inyo County
Inyo County is surprisingly accessible despite its remote beauty. Most visitors arrive via Highway 395, which runs north-south along the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. The county is approximately 4.5 hours from Los Angeles and 5 hours from Las Vegas by car.
By Air
The Eastern Sierra Regional Airport in Bishop now offers commercial flights from several California cities, making access easier than ever. Alternatively, major airports in Las Vegas and Los Angeles provide rental car options for the scenic drive to Inyo County.
Find the best flight deals to kickstart your Inyo County adventure:
By Road
Highway 395 is the main artery through Inyo County, offering spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada. If coming from the east, routes through Death Valley National Park provide dramatic desert landscapes. Winter travelers should check road conditions, as mountain passes can close during snowstorms.
Explore Inyo County at your own pace with a rental car:
Best Time to Visit Inyo County
Inyo County experiences extreme temperature variations due to its diverse elevations. Planning your visit during the right season is crucial for comfort and accessibility.
Spring (March-May)
Spring offers mild temperatures and the possibility of wildflower blooms in Death Valley (typically February-April). Higher elevations may still have snow, but lower areas are perfect for hiking and photography.
Fall (September-November)
Fall brings comfortable temperatures throughout the county. The aspen trees in the higher elevations turn brilliant gold in October, creating spectacular photo opportunities along creeks and canyons.
Winter & Summer
Winter (December-February) is ideal for Death Valley but brings snow to the mountains. Summer (June-August) is perfect for high-elevation activities but dangerously hot in Death Valley, where temperatures can exceed 120°F.
Weather Safety Tip: Death Valley temperatures can be lethal in summer. Always carry extra water, inform others of your plans, and avoid hiking at lower elevations between 10 AM and 4 PM during hot months.
Getting Around Inyo County
Inyo County’s vast size (over 10,000 square miles) and remote nature make having your own transportation essential. Public transit is limited, and attractions are widely dispersed.
By Car
A personal vehicle or rental car is the best way to explore Inyo County. Many attractions require driving on unpaved roads, so consider renting an SUV or vehicle with higher clearance if you plan to venture off the main highways.
Local Transportation
The Eastern Sierra Transit Authority offers limited bus service between towns in Inyo County. Lone Pine, Bishop, and other communities are walkable once you’re in town, but you’ll need transportation to reach trailheads and attractions.
Secure your ideal vehicle for exploring Inyo County’s diverse terrain:
Where to Stay in Inyo County
Accommodations in Inyo County range from historic hotels to rustic campgrounds. Booking in advance is essential, especially during peak seasons.
Bishop
As the largest town in the county, Bishop offers the widest selection of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. It makes an excellent base for exploring the northern part of the county, including the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.
Lone Pine
This charming small town provides convenient access to Mount Whitney, Alabama Hills, and the southern entrance to Death Valley. Historic hotels and modern motels are available, along with RV parks.
Death Valley
For exploring Death Valley National Park, consider staying at The Oasis at Death Valley (formerly Furnace Creek Resort), Stovepipe Wells Village, or Panamint Springs Resort. Campgrounds are also available within the park.
Find your perfect stay in Inyo County – from luxury resorts to rustic cabins:
Top Attractions in Inyo County
Death Valley National Park
As America’s largest national park outside Alaska, Death Valley offers surreal landscapes that seem from another world. Despite its ominous name, the park teems with unique beauty and fascinating geological features.
Must-See Spots in Death Valley:
- Badwater Basin – Walk on the salt flats at North America’s lowest point, 282 feet below sea level.
- Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – Explore photogenic sand dunes that reach heights of over 100 feet.
- Zabriskie Point – Witness one of the park’s most famous viewpoints, especially stunning at sunrise.
- Artist’s Palette – Marvel at mineral-stained hills in vibrant hues of pink, green, purple, and blue.
- Dante’s View – Enjoy a panoramic vista from 5,500 feet above Badwater Basin.
Alabama Hills
Just west of Lone Pine, the Alabama Hills feature distinctive rounded rock formations and eroded hills set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Nevada. This area has served as a filming location for hundreds of movies and commercials.
Top Activities in Alabama Hills:
- Movie Road – Drive the famous dirt road through iconic Western film locations.
- Mobius Arch – Hike the short trail to this natural stone arch that perfectly frames Mount Whitney.
- Photography – Capture stunning sunrise or sunset shots with the unique rock formations.
- Rock Climbing – Test your skills on the many bouldering routes throughout the area.
Don’t miss the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine to learn about the area’s rich cinematic heritage before exploring the actual filming locations.
Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
Home to the oldest living trees on Earth, some exceeding 4,000 years of age, this high-elevation forest offers a glimpse into an ancient world. The gnarled, twisted bristlecone pines have survived in harsh conditions that would kill most other plants.
Visitor Information:
- Location – In the White Mountains, accessed via Highway 168 east of Big Pine.
- Schulman Grove – Visit the visitor center and walk the Discovery Trail (1 mile) or Methuselah Trail (4.5 miles).
- Patriarch Grove – A more remote area with the largest bristlecone pine, the Patriarch Tree.
- Season – Generally open from mid-May through October, weather permitting.
Altitude Warning: The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest sits at elevations between 10,000-11,000 feet. Take it slow if you’re not acclimated to high altitudes, and bring plenty of water.
Mount Whitney
Standing tall at 14,505 feet, Mount Whitney is the highest peak in the contiguous United States. While summiting requires permits and preparation, even driving to Whitney Portal offers spectacular views and hiking opportunities.
Whitney Options:
- Whitney Portal – Drive to this scenic trailhead at 8,300 feet for spectacular views and access to day hikes.
- Day Hiking – Try the family-friendly Whitney Portal National Recreation Trail along Lone Pine Creek.
- Summit Hike – The 22-mile round-trip requires a wilderness permit obtained through a lottery system.
- Photography – Capture stunning mountain vistas from various viewpoints along Whitney Portal Road.
Outdoor Activities in Inyo County
Hiking & Backpacking
With access to the Sierra Nevada, White Mountains, and desert terrain, Inyo County offers world-class hiking for all skill levels. Popular trails include the Mount Whitney Trail, Kearsarge Pass, Big Pine Lakes, and numerous options in Death Valley.
Fishing & Water Sports
The Eastern Sierra is renowned for its fishing opportunities. Try fly fishing in the Owens River, or visit Lake Sabrina and South Lake near Bishop. Hot springs in the area include Keough’s Hot Springs and natural pools near Tecopa.
Stargazing & Photography
Inyo County’s dark skies make it perfect for stargazing and astrophotography. Death Valley is a designated International Dark Sky Park, while Alabama Hills offers dramatic foregrounds for night sky photography.
Where to Eat in Inyo County
Despite its remote location, Inyo County offers surprising culinary diversity, from classic American diners to international cuisine.
Bishop
- Erick Schat’s Bakkery – Famous for its original sheepherder bread and pastries.
- Mountain Rambler Brewery – Craft beers and pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Owens Valley Distilling Co. – Locally made spirits in a tasting room setting.
Lone Pine
- Alabama Hills Café – Hearty breakfasts and lunches popular with hikers and climbers.
- Seasons Restaurant – Fine dining with a view at the historic Dow Hotel.
- The Grill – Casual American fare with outdoor seating.
Death Valley Area
- The Inn at Death Valley Dining Room – Upscale dining with spectacular views.
- Badwater Saloon – Casual fare and cold drinks at Stovepipe Wells.
- Tecopa Brewing Company – Craft beers and food in a unique desert setting.
Practical Tips for Visiting Inyo County
Essential Planning
- Cell Service – Coverage is spotty throughout the county. Download offline maps and inform someone of your plans.
- Gas Stations – Fill up whenever possible. Stations can be 50+ miles apart in some areas.
- Water – Carry more water than you think you’ll need, especially in Death Valley.
- Permits – Check if your activities require wilderness permits or park entrance fees.
Visitor Centers
- Eastern Sierra Interagency Visitor Center – Located in Lone Pine, excellent for information on the entire region.
- Bishop Visitor Center – On Main Street in Bishop, helpful for northern Inyo County.
- Furnace Creek Visitor Center – The main information center for Death Valley National Park.
Experience the Extremes of Inyo County
From the scorching depths of Death Valley to the soaring heights of Mount Whitney, Inyo County offers a journey through California’s most dramatic landscapes. This land of superlatives promises adventures that can’t be found anywhere else in America — ancient trees that were already old when the pyramids were built, salt flats that stretch to the horizon, and night skies ablaze with stars.
Whether you’re seeking challenging hikes, otherworldly photography opportunities, or simply a road trip through breathtaking scenery, Inyo County delivers experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be amazed by this remarkable corner of California.
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Start planning your journey to this land of extremes today!
