Bishop and the beautiful Owen Valley have been described as “California’s Hidden Treasure.” While it’s true that the treasures abound here in the Eastern Sierra, Bishop is not quiet as “hidden” as you might imagine. In fact, Bishop is located in the very middle of California, where Highways 6 and 395 intersect. Whether your traveling from Southern or Northern California, or a major city in Nevada, you’ll drive 4 1/2 to 5 hours to reach Bishop. From any direction, the roads are well maintained and the views are spectacular. Getting here is part of your vacation and we you enjoy your journey!
In your travels to Eastern Sierra it is best to go by car, SUV, or motor home. Now you can catch a flight to the Eastern Sierras (see Mammoth Airport Link below).
Air Transportation:
- Eastern Sierra Regional Airport a public airport, located in Bishop.
- The Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) using Alaska Air-/Horizon Air
- Reno-Tahoe International Airport (3 3/4 hour drive north of Bishop)
- Inyo-Kern Airport (2 hour drive south of Bishop)
- Air service from Inyo Kern Airport
Bus Transportation:
- The Inyo-Mono Transit Authority is the only bus system that runs from Bishop to Carson City, Nevada and the Reno/Tahoe Airport, three times a week, with very reasonable rates. For more information call 760-872-1901 or toll free at 800-922-1930.
Car Rentals:
Yosemite Transportation :
YARTS ( Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) a bus system that runs daily from the communities of Mammoth Lakes, June Lake and Lee Vining to Yosemite Valley
Note: SR 120, Tioga Pass Road (east entrance into Yosemite Park) is normally closed from Nov. to late May of each year due to a heavy snow pack. During that time period, there is no access to Yosemite Nat’l Park via Tioga Pass from US 395 at Lee Vining (60 miles north of Bishop). Visitors to Yosemite must cross the Eastern Sierra on Hwy 50 (155 miles north of Bishop) or SR 58 (150 miles south of Bishop) to access highways into Yosemite Park.
Regardless of how you get here, it is worth the trip. The rural isolation is part of the charm and reason that folks return to visit the High Sierra year after year. The clean, clear, cool night air, the brilliant stars and beauty of the Eastern Sierra await you.