Trail Overview
This 11.2-mile out-and-back trail climbs over 1,100 feet and drops almost 1,300 feet over 5.6 miles, winding through alternating meadows and pine tree forests. At mile one, there's a small creek crossing, after which the trail starts climbing and the terrain opens up with views of the Eastern Sierra Mountain range. The trail narrows as it winds through a short pine forest where the Eastern Sierra mountains continue to peek through the trees. Once you reach the apex, you're introduced to the White Mountains on the other side of Highway 395 as well as the beautiful valley below, including the town of Bishop. The trail enters a more dense pine forest with climbs and descents before finally emerging into open meadows along the cliffside with more stunning views of the Eastern Sierras. The last section features a shelf road running along the cliff edge, looking down into the valley below. The trail ends at a small turnaround area.
Difficulty
Trail features include a sand trail with lots of gravel and rocks, off-camber sections, a trail that becomes mostly sandy with occasional big rocks to maneuver around, the west side is much steeper with more sand, rocks, and ruts, lots of ruts from water runoff, overhanging branches that could hit vehicles, narrow shelf road section with limited passing spots. Not recommended for trailers or very wide/long vehicles due to limited turnaround space.
