Which road travels more than 1,300 miles and connects both the highest point in the contiguous United States and the lowest point in North America? That’s right, it’s Highway 395 California! And it’s one of the most underrated corridors for scenic drives and outdoor adventures. With so many incredible Highway 395 attractions, it deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list.
Though not as well-known as California Highway 1 and not as busy as Route 99, it is a north-to-south road that is very much worth your travel time. As it ventures up the state’s eastern side, California Highway 395 passes by highway 395 attractions like Death Valley, Mt. Whitney, Yosemite National Park, old mining towns, premium ski resorts, legit ghost towns, and famous film locations.
Having grown up in California, I’ve visited this area of the state countless times, and I’ve lived in the town of Mammoth Lakes for over five years, yet I never run out of things to discover. As a travel planner who curates itineraries to California, I know first-hand what travelers like (and don’t) when they travel California Highway 395.
Here, I’m sharing more than 17 highway 395 attractions you shouldn’t miss—from Olancha to the Nevada border—including Death Valley National Park, Alabama Hills, and Manzanar National Historic Site.
17 Must-See Sites Along Highway 395 California
Below, I’ll dive into 17 must-see stops on Highway 395 as you road trip along the eastern edge of the Golden State. Most sites are slightly off the highway, so many travelers drive past and miss almost all these (almost all free!) spots. But that’d be a shame.
From world-class peaks for rock climbers and scenic drives to endless hikes in the Inyo National Forest and National Parks, there are countless things to explore. I suggest you hit a spot or three on each trip along California Highway 395. However, if you’re taking your time and doing the drive over many days, you could see all the spots on this list.
Kennedy Meadows
If you’re coming from the south, the first noteworthy stop is Kennedy Meadows. Nestled in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains, Kennedy Meadows is one of the more peaceful and remote highway 395 attractions. It’s a key resupply point for Pacific Crest Trail hikers, and the Kennedy Meadow resort and pack station is a great spot to unplug. Expect scenic meadows, alpine streams, and the quiet you can only find far off the beaten path.
Death Valley National Park
As the name suggests, Death Valley is a dramatic place that’s set more than a few records. It’s home to the Badwater Basin, which, at 282 feet below sea level, is the lowest spot in North America. It is also on record as the hottest place on Earth because, in 1913, the air temperature at Furnace Creek was recorded to be 134°F. In the spring, enjoy the majestic Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, peek at the wildflowers, or see the moving rocks at the racetrack.
Alabama Hills
The name may be misleading because Alabama Hills is not a bunch of hills but a series of rock formations. Head here to hike, cycle, or rock climb among the boulders. And go at sunset when you can snap a picture of the famed Mobius Arch in golden light. Alabama Hills is a highlight among Highway 395 attractions, especially for photographers and movie buffs.
You can spend time here getting lost in the rocks while reminiscing on all the movies that were filmed here, including “The Lone Ranger,” “How The West Was Won,” “Django Unchained, “Gladiator,” and “Iron Man.” To dive deeper into the film side, visit the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine.
Mt. Whitney
Mt. Whitney, standing at 14,505 feet, is the tallest peak in the lower 48 and one of the crown jewels of highway 395 attractions. To see it yourself, take the Whitney Portal Road from Lone Pine and drive it to the end. Be forewarned that you need a permit to hike or climb Mt. Whitney, but you can still admire it from the base.
Manzanar National Historic Site
Just outside Lone Pine, the Manzanar War Relocation Center is among the most sobering yet vital highway 395 attractions. More than 100,000 Japanese immigrants and Japanese Americans were forcibly removed from their homes and incarcerated in these military-style camps during World War II. Start by visiting the Visitor’s Center and take a guided tour or explore independently. Be sure to stop by Block 14 to get a glimpse into daily life at Manzanar.
Hot Springs Jackpot
Spend any time in the region of U.S. Highway 395 that stretches from Lone Pine to Walker, and you’ll hear about natural hot springs. This part of California has been called the “hot springs jackpot” because of the high concentration of natural thermal springs. Note that some, like Hot Creek Geological Site, are not for bathing, while others, like Wild Willy’s Hot Springs and Keough Hot Springs, are where travelers can soak up the thermal vibes.
Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
When it comes to the “oldest” point along Highway 395, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest holds that distinction. The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is another one of the Highway 395 attractions that’s both surreal and educational.
Make your way high into the White Mountains along the California-Nevada border and walk the trails that wind among 4,000-year-old trees known as bristlecone pines. Note that it’s open in the summer, but when there is snow, the road closes at the Sierra View Gates. However, you can still access the area to hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski.
Lake Sabrina
Located above the town of Bishop, Lake Sabrina is one of the dreamiest Highway 395 attractions for summer and fall. Go for trout fishing, kayaking, or to take in the alpine views on a leisurely hike. In fall, the surrounding aspens put on a stunning color show, making it one of the most photogenic lakes in the Eastern Sierra.
Crowley Lake Stone Columns
Between Bishop and Mammoth Lakes, you’ll pass Crowley Lake, an excellent place for boating and fishing in the summer. In years when the water levels are lower than usual, you can also check out the Crowley Lake Columns. The Crowley Lake Columns are lesser-known highway 395 attractions, but well worth the detour.
These natural formations look like a Gaudí building and a child’s sandcastle merged and look otherworldly. While they are decidedly of this earth, recent research suggests they are ancient. It’s now believed that the Crowley Lake Columns are the byproduct of a volcanic explosion that occurred 760,000 years ago!
Convict Lake
A spot named Convict Lake might not be on your list for a stop, but it’s well worth it. There are estimated to be more than 1,000 alpine lakes throughout the Eastern Sierra, but many are hard to reach. Luckily, that’s not the case with Convict Lake, as you can drive up to the lakeside parking lot of this crystal-clear lake. Convict Lake has incredible trout fishing, but you can rent a pontoon boat or do a short hike along the flat looped path. Also, the Convict Lake Resort has a classic steakhouse restaurant known for its martini bar if you’re searching for a comforting place to eat.
Mammoth Lakes
We’ve already written about how the town of Mammoth Lakes is one of our favorite spots to get outdoors in California. That’s so much the case that I have lived here for more than 5 years! It’s home to Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and the Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center, so you have plenty to do in the winter.
You can backpack, rock climb, horseback ride, fish, mountain bike, or hike in the summer. Read our Mammoth Lakes travel guide for more info, or head here for where to stay or eat in Mammoth Lakes.
Devils Postpile National Monument
One of the most popular sites around Mammoth Lakes is Devil’s Postpile and Reds Meadow. Home to one of California’s most fascinating geological formations, the “postpile” is a cliff of basalt columns that stick almost 60 feet out of the ground. Head there to see the postpile, then, if you have time and are up for it, continue hiking to Rainbow Falls.
The area is open roughly from June to September, and you’ll want to plan your visit. If you plan to drive, head there very early in the morning before the parking shuts down. Otherwise, you’ll be at the whim of the free shuttle from the Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center.
June Lake Loop
One of the best Highway 395 attractions is right off the road as a detour. If you have time, drive this 12-mile detour called June Lake Loop.
You’ll loop around the lake with beautiful mountain views. Plan on pulling over every few seconds to get pictures of the breathtaking scenery as you pass June, Gull, Grant, and Silver Lakes. In the fall, this is one of the best places for fall foliage in the Eastern Sierra.
Head to June Mountain for easy winter skiing for the whole family. And, if the full road is open, be sure to stop in the town of June Lake for a bite at June Pie for New York-style pizza or to sip on local craft beer at June Lake Brewery.
Yosemite National Park Via Tioga Pass
People are often surprised to learn you can enter Yosemite National Park from the Eastern Sierra. Open from spring to fall (depending on snowfall), the jaw-dropping Tioga Pass connects the 395 to Yosemite. To do so, turn onto the 120 at the Lee Vining Mobil (stop at Whoa Nellie Deli for some BBQ!), then ascend the pass into the park.
The pass itself is dramatic (as it’s the highest pass in California) and worth a drive in and of itself. Even if you don’t plan to enter the park, you can enjoy spots outside like Ellery and Saddlebag Lakes.
Mono Lake
Just past the small town of Lee Vining, you’ll come upon Mono Lake. Truth be told, Mono Lake is technically more of a “basin” than a lake since it allows water to go in, but there’s no way for it to get out. The result is what is called a saline soda lake, formed more than 750,000 years ago. Translation: This is an ancient saline lake where you can admire the views and swim!
Here, the water is super saline, meaning it’s denser than ocean water and makes for a super buoyant swim. If you don’t feel up to swimming, walk the marked paths or admire the unique ecosystem, which includes more than 80 species of migratory birds. Of particular note are the tufa or limestone formations sticking out of the lake, giving it an otherworldly feel.
Bodie State Historic Park
We promised you this route also has ghost towns, and Bodie is the best known. During the Gold Rush Era, this town had more than 10,000 residents and was a thriving mining community. Now, it’s one of the best-preserved ghost towns in California, and you can take a tour or visit on your own. It’s technically open year-round, but the roads are often closed during snowy months, so visiting from spring to fall is best.
Travertine Hot Springs
Travertine Hot Springs wraps up the list of must-see sights along California Highway 395. I know; we already mentioned hot springs. But, if you didn’t get a chance to stop by the hot springs further south, know you can also hit up Travertine Hot Springs. These hot springs are easily accessible, just east of Bridgeport, down a well-maintained dirt road. They can get busy with weekend warriors during the summer months, so we recommend visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds.
7 Tips For Driving Highway 395, California
You may still have questions even after reading our California Road Trip Tips. You may be wondering, “Is Highway 395 dangerous?” The answer is no! You’ll enjoy this drive safely if you follow the speed limit and road rules (and avoid driving during a storm). Here are seven more tips for driving Highway 395 California:
Take Your Time
You can drive from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe along California’s 395 in one (albeit long) day of driving. We recommend doing it in two to three days with overnights at campsites or in the towns of Lone Pine, Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, or South Lake Tahoe.
Many of our travel clients who road trip in California complete this drive in four days, with stops in Death Valley National Park, Mammoth Lakes, or Yosemite National Park, and then head on to South Lake Tahoe.
Drive At Sunrise Or Sunset
Driving through the Owens Valley, from Olancha to Bishop, is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset, so we recommend planning your trip around these times if possible. Additionally, we don’t recommend driving this route at night. One primary reason is that you’ll miss out on the beautiful landscapes. Additionally, the road is not well-lit, and parts of it are one-lane highways with oncoming traffic, which can be intimidating for unfamiliar drivers.
The Weather Can Vary
The weather along Highway 395 California varies a lot! It can be triple digits down near Olancha and then frigid (or even snowing) once you’re in the Sierra. The primary concern in the summer is high temperatures, but it can get icy during the winter.
Additionally, it is known for being windy, which can be a significant challenge for such a long drive. Make sure you plan and carry everything from extra water to chains, and always have more than enough gas in the tank.
You May Lose Cell Signal
Depending on your provider, you may lose cell signals during parts of the drive along Highway 395 California. Be prepared by knowing where you’re headed and checking road conditions ahead of time.
Also, ensure you have Wi-Fi in your car or an SOS button in case you find yourself in an emergency, as there are stretches without support services, such as gas stations or rest stops.
Don’t Let The Straight Road Fool You
The road along Highway 395 California seems like it doesn’t turn at all from Big Pine to Bishop, but don’t let that fool you. Once you leave Lee Vining in the north and head to Topaz Lake, the road features dramatic curves and elevation changes as it skirts Mono Lake and follows the West Walker River.
You Can Enter Yosemite From The East
As discussed below, you can drive into Yosemite National Park from the 395 during the late spring to the fall. This park entrance provides access to the stunning Tuolumne Meadows and through-hikes like the John Muir Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail.
You Can Access Lake Tahoe
You can also access Lake Tahoe by taking various roads, such as Highway 89, Highway 50, or U.S. Highway 80.
Frequently Asked Questions About Highway 395 California
Stretching between the Mojave Desert and the Nevada State line, California Highway 395 (also known as the Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway) winds through some of the most dramatic landscapes in California. The road connects to Las Vegas, Reno, and Sacramento and is frequented by everyone from van lifers to road trippers and outdoor lovers. Along the way, it passes by the highest spot in the lower 48 states, multiple 14,000-food peaks, the hottest place on earth, and some of the oldest trees on earth. You’ll cross through the arid desert in Southern California, lava boulder fields in the middle, and, after leaving Bishop, gain 2,400 feet in elevation as you pass the Sherwin Summit and arrive in the heart of the Eastern Sierra.
While the Death Valley area was historically the land of the Timbasha Shoshone people, the areas now Inyo and Mono County are the lands of the Mono tribe, Coso people, Timbisha, and Kawaiisu. The route generally follows the historic Camino Sierra, which once connected Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe and was frequented by prospectors in the Gold Rush Era. Though there wasn’t much worth mining in the immediate area, the greater Owens Valley was a fertile place where cattle and other goods were then traded with the miners.
To clarify, in California, the U.S. 395 is split into two parts because it exits and then re-enters California via Nevada. The southern portion ventures through the Mojave Desert, the Owens Valley and then heads just east of the Sierra Nevada, while the northern section crosses the Modoc Plateau. We’re covering the stretch from just past the Red Rock Canyon State Park when Highway 14 and Highway 395 merge until the Nevada border. Or the road from Olancha in the south to Topaz Lake in the north.
Along California Highway 395, travelers can discover various attractions, including the stunning landscapes of the Eastern Sierra, Mono Lake with its unique tufa towers, the ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, and the majestic Manzanar National Historic Site. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Mammoth Lakes for hiking and skiing, while Bodie State Historic Park offers a fascinating glimpse into a preserved ghost town.
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Find The Best Food On Highway 395
All that adventuring along the Highway 395 California is sure to leave you hungry. If you plan to bring food along, check out our recipe roundup for our favorite road trip-worthy dishes. Alternatively, visit this link for more than 30 recommendations for the best food along Highway 395.
California-Inspired Recipes
Not trekking up Highway 395 California quite yet? Want to get a taste of California at home? Cook up these recipes inspired by the Golden State:
California Road Trip Travel Guide
Thinking about taking a road trip in the Golden State? You’ll want to check out our California Road Trip Travel Guide for travel tips, itinerary ideas, and more California-inspired recipes.
California Road Trip Planner
Did you know we’re also a boutique travel agency specializing in California vacation planning? If you want to plan a trip to California, our California trip planner services are here to help you plan your perfect itinerary.
Photo Credit: Mono Lake by Andrew S; The Racetrack at Death Valley by Bryan Brazil; Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest by Tomas Tichy; Convict Lake by Reiner in CA
