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Inyo National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · CA, NV
Scenic%20Drives Guide

Inyo National Forest

Inyo National Forest, straddling the California-Nevada border, is renowned for its diverse landscapes and outdoor adventures. Home to significant geological features, it draws visitors eager to explore its expansive wilderness and majestic peaks.

National Forest2,272,0664+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

2,272,066

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Inyo National Forest

Inyo National Forest, straddling the California-Nevada border, is renowned for its diverse landscapes and outdoor adventures. Home to significant geological features, it draws visitors eager to explore its expansive wilderness and majestic peaks.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Inyo National Forest covers over two million acres and is distinguished by its extraordinary ecological and geological diversity. Located in eastern California and part of Nevada, it encompasses parts of the Sierra Nevada and White Mountain ranges. This forest hosts Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest with trees that are among the oldest living organisms on Earth, some exceeding 4,000 years. Outdoor enthusiasts find a wealth of opportunities, from hiking and camping to fishing and skiing. Inyo's history is rich with Native American heritage and it played a pivotal role in the California Gold Rush era. The high peaks of the Sierra Nevada, including Mount Whitney, the tallest in the contiguous United States, offer challenging climbs and spectacular views. The Eastern Sierra leads visitors through areas of stark beauty with alpine meadows, crystal-clear rivers, and expansive deserts. Popular destinations within the forest include the John Muir Wilderness, Mono Lake, and the dramatic Eastern Sierras. This blend of history, ecology, and recreation makes Inyo a captivating destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Inyo National Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Serene Sanctuary: Lake Thomas A Edison★ 8.2⌖ 4 miFishing
Lake Thomas A Edison

Serene Sanctuary: Lake Thomas A Edison

Lake Thomas A Edison offers anglers and adventurers a serene experience with fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities in the Sierra Nevada. Enjoy exploring the nearby John Muir Wilderness for stunning views and abundant wildlife.

FishingView Details→
Scenic Splendor: Little Lakes and Mono Pass Trails★ 8.8⌖ 12 miHiking
Little Lakes and Mono Pass Trailhead (Gem Lakes)

Scenic Splendor: Little Lakes and Mono Pass Trails

Explore Little Lakes Valley near Bishop, CA, featuring stunning alpine lakes and granite peaks. Excellent for hiking, fishing, and photography. Accessed via drive-in, open spring to fall with low crowds. Beautiful scenery awaits both novice and avid photographers.

HikingView Details→
Serene Waters of Huntington Lake★ 7.8⌖ 16 miBoating
Huntington Lake

Serene Waters of Huntington Lake

Explore Huntington Lake in California, a serene mountain reservoir perfect for swimming, sailing, and fishing. Enjoy hiking trails with breathtaking views. Ideal for adventurous visits in summer.

BoatingView Details→
Nature's Grandeur at Sierra National Forest★ 8.8⌖ 16 miHiking
Sierra National Forest

Nature's Grandeur at Sierra National Forest

Explore the vast Sierra National Forest, covering over 1.3 million acres in California. This breathtaking destination offers hiking, camping, and water sports with stunning views of towering pines and granite cliffs. Best visited in spring and fall, it's a top spot for adventure seekers.

HikingView Details→
Scenic Hiking at Convict Lake Trail in California★ 8.2⌖ 17 miHiking
Convict Lake Trail

Scenic Hiking at Convict Lake Trail in California

Explore the easy 3-mile loop around Convict Lake near Mammoth Lakes, CA. This family-friendly trail offers scenic alpine lake views, trout fishing, and wildlife sightings. Best from spring to fall, it's ideal for hiking, fishing, and photography with historic interest nearby.

HikingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States.✦ Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest with some of the world's oldest trees.✦ Mono Lake, a saline soda lake with striking tufa towers.✦ The rugged beauty of the John Muir Wilderness.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Inyo National Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Inyo National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees for most areas, but permits required for certain activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Inyo National Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Bishop Park Campground

Located along Highway 168, it offers a peaceful riverside experience with easy access.

Reserve on Recreation.gov

Lone Pine Campground

At the base of Mount Whitney, ideal for those planning an ascent or enjoying local trails.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Inyo National Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Bishops Castle, Shropshire
⌖ 5137.8 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Bishops Castle, Shropshire

Bishops Castle is a quaint market town in the Shropshire Hills, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking quiet hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Its access to scenic ridges and rural trails offers a peaceful escape for adventure lovers.

Spring through AutumnExplore Town
Mammoth Lakes, California
⌖ 20.5 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Mammoth Lakes, California

Mammoth Lakes captivates with alpine adventures, offering prime skiing at Mammoth Mountain and scenic trails in the Eastern Sierra. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking year-round excitement.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Lone Pine, California
⌖ 69.8 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Lone Pine, California

Lone Pine, CA, is your starting point for outdoor adventures in the eastern Sierra. Explore hiking trails, climb renowned routes, and experience the vast desert landscapes. With a rich history and dramatic nature scenes, it’s a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Inyo National Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Flat Bottom Boat Adventure with Crowley Lake Fish Camp in Mammoth LakesMammoth Lakes, California · 19.33 mi away
On the Water· Crowley Lake Fish Camp

Flat Bottom Boat Adventure with Crowley Lake Fish Camp in Mammoth Lakes

Discover the thrill of gliding across Crowley Lake in a flat bottom boat from Crowley Lake Fish Camp. Perfect for beginners and families, this activity offers a peaceful yet adventurous way to enjoy the Sierra’s stunning waterscape. Read on to find out what makes this experience a standout in Mammoth Lakes.

1–3 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.