Are you ready for an adventure that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard?
Well, pack your bags and gas up the car because we’re planning a road trip along Highway 395!
This isn’t just any highway—it’s a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes California has to offer.
From snow-capped mountains to ancient forests and crystal-clear lakes, this trip has it all.
But with so much to see, how do you make sure you hit all the must-see spots without missing out on the hidden gems?
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
In this article, I’m sharing the ultimate itinerary for the best Highway 395 road trip.
1. Lone Pine
We’re starting the road trip in the charming town of Lone Pine which is located in the Owens Valley of California.
It’s a beautiful town, surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and the Inyo Mountains.
The town’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes make it a perfect starting point for adventures in the Eastern Sierra region.
Driving from Los Angeles to Lone Pine takes about 3.5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 212 miles.
The route to Lone Pine is incredibly scenic and a great way to start the road trip!
2. Whitney Portal Road
The next stop on our road trip is the famous Whitney Portal Road which starts in Lone Pine.
This spectacular drive takes you up the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains and is renowned for its scenic views as it ascends toward Mt Whitney.
This road is famous for its breathtaking views and leads to Whitney Portal, the starting point for hikes up Mount Whitney which is the tallest peak in the contiguous U.S. at 14,505 feet.
From the end of the road at Whitney Portal, you can catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Whitney towering above.
The road itself is an exciting journey, with steep ascents, dramatic switchbacks and stunning vistas that make every turn an adventure.
3. Alabama Hills
The Alabama Hills are a stunning collection of rounded rocks and eroded hills located in the Owens Valley, just west of Lone Pine.
Known for their dramatic landscapes, these hills have been a filming location for hundreds of Hollywood movies, especially Westerns, due to their unique beauty and proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains.
One of the most famous features is the Mobius Arch, a natural rock formation that perfectly frames Mount Whitney, making it a popular spot for photographers and hikers.
The arch is accessible via a short loop trail and is one of the main highlights in the area.
There are so many things to do in the Alabama Hills including rock climbing, hiking and exploring the many natural arches scattered throughout the hills.
4. Manzanar National Historic Site
The next stop is the Manzanar National Historic Site which was one of ten camps where over 10,000 Japanese Americans were unjustly incarcerated during World War II.
The site is now preserved as a reminder of this dark chapter in American history.
You can explore the site to learn about this important historical event through exhibits, restored buildings and a moving interpretive center located in the former camp auditorium.
The site also features remnants of the camp, such as the guard tower and reconstructed barracks, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who lived there.
5. Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
It’s time to take a small detour off Highway 395 to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, which is a magical place located high in the White Mountains.
It’s famous for being home to the world’s oldest trees, some of which are over 4,000 years old, like the legendary Methuselah tree.
These ancient trees have twisted, gnarled trunks that show how they have survived harsh winds, snow and even time itself.
You can explore various trails like the 4.5-mile loop Methuselah Trail and discover the forest’s unique beauty and history.
This trail takes you through groves of ancient bristlecone pines, including the Methuselah tree (although its exact location is unmarked to protect it).
6. Bishop
Bishop is a charming town situated between the stunning Sierra Nevada and White Mountains, making it a paradise for outdoor activities including hiking, fishing and climbing.
Known as the “Mule Capital of the World,” Bishop hosts the exciting Mule Days festival every Memorial Day weekend, celebrating the hardworking animals that have been part of the area’s history.
The town is also a rock climbing hotspot, with over 2,000 bouldering problems in nearby areas like the Buttermilks.
For those looking to explore the great outdoors, the Treasure Lakes Trail offers breathtaking views and a chance to see beautiful alpine lakes surrounded by towering peaks.
7. Little Lakes Valley
Little Lakes Valley is a breathtaking place that starts from the Mosquito Flat trailhead at the end of Rock Creek Road.
This trailhead is one of the highest in the Sierra Nevada, sitting at over 10,000 feet.
Known for its stunning alpine scenery, the valley is dotted with a series of beautiful lakes surrounded by towering granite peaks.
The hike is relatively easy, making it perfect for families and beginners who want to experience the magic of the High Sierra without a strenuous climb.
Along the trail, you’ll encounter sparkling lakes like Mack Lake, Heart Lake and Long Lake, each offering unique views and perfect spots for a picnic or a peaceful moment.
The valley also features vibrant wildflowers, clear waters and the occasional sighting of wildlife like pika and marmots.
8. Crowley Lake Stone Columns
The Crowley Lake Stone Columns are a fascinating natural wonder located on the eastern side of Crowley Lake.
These mysterious columns, which resemble an ancient temple, were formed over 760,000 years ago by volcanic activity which resulted in their unique symmetrical shapes.
The columns are best viewed during the fall and winter when the lake’s water levels are low, revealing these remarkable formations.
Getting to the site can be an adventure in itself as it requires either a four-wheel-drive vehicle or a 4-mile round trip hike along sandy roads, but the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada and the surreal landscape make it worth the effort.
Exploring these towering columns is like stepping into another world and offers a unique glimpse into the Earth’s ancient geological processes.
9. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs
Wild Willy’s Hot Springs is a tranquil and picturesque hidden gem situated near Mammoth Lakes.
Known for its natural geothermal pools, it offers a soothing escape with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The springs are easily accessible via a short walk on a wooden boardwalk, leading to two main pools, including a heart-shaped one that is perfect for couples.
The water temperature ranges from 95ºF to 105ºF, making it perfect for a relaxing dip, especially at sunrise when it’s less crowded.
With its breathtaking scenery and free access, Wild Willy’s is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling along Highway 395.
10. Hot Creek Geological Site
Hot Creek Geological Site is a natural wonder located within the Long Valley Caldera, a geologically active area formed by a massive volcanic eruption approximately 760,000 years ago.
This site is famous for its vibrant blue geothermal pools and steaming geysers which offer a dramatic display of geothermal activity in a stunning river gorge.
You can enjoy the view from safe vantage points, as swimming is not allowed due to the unpredictable and sometimes dangerous temperature fluctuations in the water, which can exceed 200ºF.
The area is a fascinating spot as it provides a glimpse into the powerful forces beneath the Earth’s surface.
11. Convict Lake
Convict Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in Mono County, situated in the dramatic Sherwin Range of the Sierra Nevada.
It’s famous for its crystal-clear turquoise-blue waters and the towering Mount Morrison that provides a breathtaking backdrop, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the Eastern Sierra.
The lake got its intriguing name from a 19th-century incident involving escaped convicts and a dramatic shootout.
Known for excellent trout fishing, Convict Lake is a great spot for fishing with rainbow and brown trout populating its waters.
You can also enjoy hiking the scenic Convict Lake Loop Trail that circles the lake, and offers amazing views of the surrounding peaks and is particularly beautiful during the fall when the leaves change color.
12. Mammoth Lakes
The next stop on our road trip is the picturesque town of Mammoth Lakes which is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
The town is surrounded by towering peaks, alpine lakes and pristine wilderness areas.
It’s a haven for skiers and snowboarders in the winter, with Mammoth Mountain offering some of the best slopes in the country.
In the summer, you can enjoy hiking, fishing and mountain biking amidst stunning alpine scenery, including the nearby Devil’s Postpile National Monument and the Ansel Adams Wilderness.
The town also hosts fun events like the Bluesapalooza music festival in August, where you can enjoy live music and craft brews under the towering peaks.
13. Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a spectacular 101-foot waterfall located in the Devils Postpile National Monument, not far from Mammoth Lakes.
It’s famous for the vibrant rainbows that dance in its mist on sunny days which creates a magical looking scene.
The falls are accessible via a moderate 2.5-mile hike from the Devils Postpile Ranger Station, which offers stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
This natural wonder is a must-see for anyone visiting the Mammoth Lakes area!
14. June Lake
June Lake is a picturesque mountain village, known for its stunning alpine scenery and outdoor adventures.
The town is surrounded by the beautiful 15-mile June Lake Loop, which includes four sparkling lakes—June, Gull, Silver and Grant—perfect for fishing, boating and swimming.
In the winter, June Mountain becomes a family-friendly ski resort where kids under 12 ski for free.
The area is also famous for its breathtaking fall colors, with vivid aspen groves painting the landscape in gold and red hues.
15. Mono Lake
Mono Lake is an ancient lake, estimated to be over 1 million years old, located in Mono County, near the eastern edge of the Sierra Nevada.
It’s famous for its eerie tufa towers which are strange, otherworldly limestone formations created by the interaction of freshwater springs and the lake’s alkaline water.
This unique ecosystem is also home to trillions of brine shrimp and alkali flies, which in turn provide food for millions of migratory birds.
The lake’s high salt content, similar to the Dead Sea, allows you to float effortlessly in its waters.
16. Bodie
Bodie is a fascinating ghost town located in the Bodie Hills in Mono County.
Once a bustling gold mining town in the late 1800s, Bodie was once home to about 10,000 people and boasted 65 saloons along its mile-long Main Street.
Today, it’s preserved as Bodie State Historic Park, where visitors can explore over 100 remaining structures including homes, a church and a schoolhouse.
All buildings have been left in a state of “arrested decay” meaning they are kept in the same condition as they were when the town was abandoned.
The town’s eerie charm and rich history make it a popular destination for those curious about the Wild West and California’s Gold Rush era.
The preserved state of the town provides an authentic glimpse into life during that period.
17. Topaz Lake
Topaz Lake is a beautiful reservoir straddling the California-Nevada border, located in the northern end of Antelope Valley
Known for its excellent fishing, the lake is a hotspot for people seeking trophy trout, with both rainbow and brown trout thriving in its waters.
As the lake is technically in both California and Nevada, the lake allows fishing licenses from either state.
Beyond fishing, you can also enjoy boating, camping or just exploring the miles and miles of scenic shoreline.
It offers year-round outdoor activities, from fishing and boating in the warmer months to ice fishing and other winter sports.
18. South Lake Tahoe
And finally, the last stop on our epic road trip across Highway 395 is the glimmering Lake Tahoe!
South Lake Tahoe is a popular city known for its stunning lake views and outdoor adventures.
During winter, it’s a top spot for skiing and snowboarding, while in summer, you can enjoy hiking, beach activities and water sports on Lake Tahoe.
Just a short drive away, Emerald Bay is a must-visit gem, famous for its crystal-clear waters and the charming Vikingsholm Castle which is a masterpiece of Scandinavian architecture.
The bay also features Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe, which is home to a small stone structure known as the “Tea House”.
South Lake Tahoe is an unforgettable destination for all seasons with its range of activities and breathtaking scenery.
It’s the perfect place to end our epic road trip through the Sierra Nevada mountains along Highway 395.
