Cycling the Eastern Sierra: Mountains, Desert, California's Ultimate Bike Route

 

The Eastern Sierra stands apart as one of California’s most dramatic cycling destinations. Situated on the east side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, this region is one of the most topographically diverse and beautiful landscapes in our country. It appears to be a place where time has stood still, with vast plains of uncultivated lands and small towns that are few and far between. For cyclists, this solitude is a gift.

Scenic US Highway 395 is the thread that connects this remarkable region, running through two of California’s least populated yet most geographically diverse counties. These two counties combined, Inyo and Mono, represent 10% of California’s total land area, and what’s more remarkable is that over 90% of this land is designated as public lands.

That’s a lot of space to ride a bicycle.

This is country where you can ride for hours on lightly trafficked roads without encountering a stop sign or traffic light, where mountain roads climb to pristine forests and deep blue lakes, and community trails weave through rural towns with modern amenities. The topographical extremes create a year-round cycling paradise; when snow blankets the high country, riders descend to the warm desert valleys, when summer heat bakes the valley floors, the mountains offer refreshing escapes.

 

Earth’s Extremes: Death Valley and Lone Pine

Begin your journey in a land of extremes. Inyo County is home to both the lowest and highest points in the contiguous United States. In the winter months, Death Valley National Park is a premier destination. A classic route takes you from Furnace Creek to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. For a spectacular finish, loop back via Artists Drive, a one-way scenic road that weaves through a rugged canyon etched by wind and water, revealing rock layers in a rainbow of earthy colors.

Moving north to Lone Pine, the landscape shifts from desert basin to granite giants. Mountain bikers should explore the Mobius Arch Loop. This 5-mile ride weaves through the Alabama Hills, offering fun single-track that navigates through rock formations and sagebrush. The reward is the Mobius Arch itself, which almost perfectly frames Mt. Whitney — the highest point in the lower 48 at 14,505 feet — in the distance. This moderately challenging trail suits intermediate riders and rewards with sweeping views across plains rising to snow-capped peaks.

The Challenge of the Giants: Independence and Big Pine

As you travel north on US-395, you reach Independence. Here, serious road cyclists can test their mettle on Onion Valley Road. Consistently ranked as the toughest climb in California, and even No. 3 in the world by Bicycling Magazine, this route gains 5,323 feet in just 13.3 miles. It ends at the Onion Valley Campground, a gateway to the high Sierra wilderness.

Just 15 miles north is Big Pine, the starting point for climbs into the White and Inyo Mountains. A standout route is Death Valley Road to Waucoba Saline Road, which offers a steady climb with incredible scenery and low traffic. For those seeking history and altitude, cycle up White Mountain Road to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. This ride tops out at over 10,000 feet, offering close-up views of the ancient natural history of the region.

 

 

Bishop: The Heart of Eastern Sierra Cycling

Situated roughly halfway along the region’s 250-mile span, Bishop is the perfect basecamp. It is the heart of the Eastern Sierra, with a “big backyard” that attracts pro riders for high-altitude acclimatization.

For road cyclists, the South Lake to Lake Sabrina route is a high-elevation classic. This 11-mile one-way ride connects two stunning alpine lakes, offering cool air, green trees, and bright blue skies. If you prefer easier, lower elevation loops, the Round Valley – Pleasant Valley Loop is an 18-mile ride with a little of everything—short hills, sweeping bends, and a car-free section along the pleasant shores of the Pleasant Valley Reservoir. Go from Millpond Recreation Area, which provides parking, restrooms, and playgrounds for non-cycling family members. The Warm Springs Loop is gentle 15-mile ride on the east side of town that starts and ends at the Bishop City Park.

Mountain bikers will find their flow on Lower Rock Creek. Just a 25-minute drive from Bishop, this trail features fast sweeping turns, rocks, roots, and steep-sided canyon walls. It is best ridden in the fall when the aspen and alpine forests glow gold.

 

Northern Exposures: Mammoth, June Lake, and Beyond

Continuing north into Mono County, the elevation and alpine vibes increase. Near Tom’s Place, riders can access Mosquito Flat and Upper Rock Creek, gateways to high-country trails.

Mammoth Lakes is a hub for gravity-fed adrenaline. The Mammoth Mountain Bike Park is world-renowned, while the Mammoth Lakes Trail System and Mammoth Scenic Loop offer paved and dirt options for all levels. Further north, the June Lake Loop is a road cyclist’s dream, circling past four lakes beneath jagged peaks. Finally, near Lee Vining, the Tioga Pass Road offers a legendary climb to the eastern gate of Yosemite National Park.

 

Ride Smart, Ride Safe

While the riding is spectacular, safety is paramount. The Eastern Sierra is vast and wild. Many places in this beautiful backcountry do not have cellphone signal. Always tell someone where you are going, when you expect to be back, and stick to your plan!

Weather can change quickly, so dress in layers and carry a basic bike repair kit and a small headlamp. Even in winter, wear sunscreen. Most importantly, carry plenty of water and energy-rich snacks to fuel your journey. Whether you are here for a leisurely family ride or a grueling training session, the Eastern Sierra offers a road or trail for you.

Female mountain biker rides a fat-tire bike on a section of the Mobius Arch trail in the Alabama Hills. The rounded granite rock formations and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains are characteristic of the area. PHOTO BY GIGI De JONG