The Inyo National Forest

Home , Bristlecone pine, Hot Creek (Mono County), Inyo Mountains, Inyo National Forest, Lee Vining Creek, Mammoth Mountain

Inyo National Forest Visitor Guide $1.00 Suggested Donation Joel Sladky ©

Inspiring Destinations Mt. Whitney. Welcome to the Inyo National Forest The Inyo National Forest is a Golden Trout, Inyo Mountains, and fishing attract thousands of “Inyo” is a Paiute land of superlatives: the oldest Boundary Peak, South Sierra, visitors during the summer months. trees, the tallest mountains in White Mountain, and Owens River Beginner to expert anglers can try Indian word meaning California, among the oldest Headwaters wildernesses. their luck fishing at more than 400 inland lake (Mono Lake), desert, lakes and 1,100 miles of streams “Dwelling Place of glaciers, and the dramatic Eastern Devils Postpile National that provide habitat for golden, Sierra escarpment. Get ready for a Monument, administered by the brook, brown and rainbow trout. memorable visit. National Park Service, is located a Great Spirit.” within the Inyo National Forest Mountain bike enthusiasts can ride Extending 165 miles along the in the Reds Meadow area west California/Nevada border between the challenging Kamikaze Trail of Mammoth Lakes. In addition, from the top Mammoth Mountain Contents Los Angeles and Reno, the Inyo the Inyo shares the tallest peak in or one of many other trails that National Forest, established May the lower 48 states, Mt. Whitney Wildlife 2 transect the front country of the 25, 1907, includes over two (14,494 feet) with Sequoia forest. Sixty-five trailheads provide Wilderness 3 million acres of pristine lakes, National Park. winding streams, rugged Sierra access to over 1,200 miles of Regional Map - North 4 Nevada peaks and arid Great trail in the 1.2 million acres of Spring/Summer Basin mountains. wilderness for hikers seeking to The wildflowers start to bloom Mono Lake, June Lake 5 escape into pristine areas. in the desert and continue Elevations range from 3,900 to Mammoth Lakes, Rock Creek 6 throughout the summer months, 14,494 feet, providing diverse Many resort facilities and pack slowly marching up the Sierra Mammoth Lakes Map 7 habitats that support vegetation stations operate under special patterns ranging from semiarid Nevada slopes. use permits from the forest to Reds Meadow/ deserts to high alpine meadows. serve additional visitor needs. The Inyo National Forest provides Devils Postpile 8 Off-highway connoisseurs There are nine congressionally a variety of year-round recreational can enjoy over 2,200 miles of Bishop, Big Pine Creek 9 designated wilderness areas: the opportunities for more than four motorized routes. Hoover, Ansel Adams, John Muir, million visitors each year. Camping White Mountains, Ancient Bristlecone Fall Pine Forest 10 The Eastern Sierra is aglow with golden aspen in the fall Independence 11 and many people seek out their favorite drainage for leaf peeping. Lone Pine / Mt. Whitney 12 Climbing and bouldering in the Recreation 13 Buttermilks picks up as the cooler temperatures return. Camping 14

Winter Mountain Biking and 15 The fun continues as the OHV / Tread Lightly temperature drops and the snowfalls, when you can explore Visitor Centers 16 the Inyo on snowshoes, skis, snowboards, and snowmobiles. This includes two ski areas, 25 miles of groomed Nordic ski trails, and 100 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. White Mountain, the third tallest mountain in California at 14, 246 ft.

1 Wildlife

One of the exciting things about Black Bears visiting your national forests is the Of all the animals you are likely opportunity to see wildlife. These to see while camping, the black animals are wild, so there are a bear is probably the most exciting. few simple things that you need to Black bears can be brown, blonde, remember to keep yourself, your cinnamon or black. Bears are property and the animals safe while omnivores (they eat everything), you enjoy watching these critters but their diet is 80 to 90 percent in their natural habitat. vegetation. Bears consider odorous products to be food (like toothpaste Though some animals may appear and sunscreen), and they can friendly and tame, wildlife are recognize food and food containers unpredictable and even the cutest by sight and smell. Bears will visit little squirrel can bite you. Some your campsite if you don’t take animals may carry disease such the precaution of storing your food as the plague, rabies, or Lyme properly. If you are more than an arm’s length away from your food, disease. NEVER feed animals! It’s American black bear store it in bear-resistant canisters. not good for them and can put you in harm’s way. WILDLIFE VIEWING TIPS Bear and animal resistant food In addition to bears, mountain lions and coyotes, there are lots of lockers in campgrounds are deer, squirrels and birds to watch and enjoy. The following tips will normally 48 inches wide, 29 help you get to know nature from a new perspective: inches deep and 38 inches high (24 cubic feet) – large enough to Bring along binoculars and cameras with zoom lenses so you can store coolers. get a close look at wildlife without disturbing them.

Take along a good field guide so you can identify any The preferred method of storing food is to use the food lockers unfamiliar wildlife. provided in campgrounds and at At sunrise and sunset check the edges of habitats for the best trailheads, or to plan so that no Mountain lion views of wildlife. food is left in your car.

Mountain Lions Avoid disturbing nests and wildlife with their young to encourage Bears won’t usually bother you Mountain lions, or cougars, roam their return in the future. while you are eating or cooking, but always clean up your camp throughout the Sierra Nevada Enjoy the quiet. Tread softly to avoid scaring off wildlife. Observe mountain range. They are a shy and of food and trash promptly after wildlife behaving naturally. meals. Tents are not smell-proof or secretive animal and your chances bear-proof, therefore you shouldn’t of encountering a mountain lion are Try a new perspective – bring a magnifying glass for a macro-view store food or anything with a small. It is wise to be prepared – in of micro-insects. fragrance inside them. California there have been instances Try your hand at tracking, or look for other signs of wildlife – like of mountain lions attacking humans. fur rubbed against a tree trunk, scat, or where beavers have When backpacking, food storage Humans can be either the predator been busy. containers such as canisters are the or the prey of cougars. Keep these best method to protect your food tips in mind: and the bears. DO NOT FEED BEARS OR ANY WILDLIFE! Do not Run! Mountain lions associate running with prey. PROPER WILDERNESS FOOD STORAGE • The use of bear-resistant food containers is mandatory Do not crouch down. in most Sierra Nevada wilderness areas from May 25 to Try to appear as large as possible. Act aggressive, wave your hands, October 31. shout, and throw sticks or stones at it. • You can be cited for improperly stored food. Hold your ground – • The counterbalance method of food storage is not or move away slowly while facing the lion. recommended; it is only a delay tactic. Bear-resistant containers are the best method available for protection of If attacked – fight back! Protect children. food and wildlife. If small children (or pets) are with you, pick them up. • Bear-resistant containers care available to rent at the visitors centers (except the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Report sightings. Forest Visitor Center) or for purchase or rental from Report any mountain lion sightings or encounters in detail to a ranger station or visitor center as soon as possible. various businesses throughout the Eastern Sierra.

2 Wilderness

Wilderness is a place where “... that limits the number of people in contrast with those areas where allowed to enter the wilderness each man and his works dominate the day from May 1 to November 1. landscape, an area where the earth In the Golden Trout Wilderness, a and its community of life are quota applies from the last Friday in untrammeled by man, where man June through September 15. himself is a visitor who does not remain.” (1964 Wilderness Act). Reservations John Muir said, “Thousands of Wilderness permits can be reserved tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized up to six months in advance at: people are beginning to find out www.Recreation.gov. Reserved that going to the mountains is going permits are picked up at any Inyo National Forest Visitor Center. Mt. home; that wildness is a necessity; Thousand Island Lake and Banner Peak and that mountain parks and Whitney permits must be picked for backpacking multiple nights on reservations are useful not only as up at the Eastern Sierra Visitor Mt. Whitney Trail or to begin trips WILDERNESS CONTACTS fountains of timber and irrigating Center in Lone Pine. Reservations on the John Muir Trail. rivers, but as fountains of life.” that are not picked up before the Wilderness information confirmation deadline will be Trips to Mt. Whitney have a specific and reservation service cancelled. Be sure to review permit quota and lottery application is available 7 days Wilderness Permits and reservation guidelines carefully. process. Applications to the Mt. Wilderness Permits are utilized to Whitney lottery are accepted from a week from May 15 minimize the impacts to an area February 1 to March 15. Results are to October 15 and Mt. Whitney Reservations and maximize the experience of announced the last week of March. Monday thru Friday the those visiting. They are required The two most popular permits Starting on April 1, reservations remainder of the year, for Mt. Whitney are reserved by year-round for all overnight trips open for the remainder of the lottery in order to be fair to the open from 8am - 4:30pm and day hiking and will enter the season on the Recreation.gov many visitors requesting trips to Mt. Mount Whitney. website. Reservations may be made Whitney. The demand far exceeds up until two days before entry Wilderness Reservation the quota. Quotas date. Reservation fees are due at Information: 760-873-2483 The Day Use permit can be the time the reservation is booked The Ansel Adams and John Muir reserved for any route, but only for and are not refundable. There is no Recreation.gov Wildernesses have an entry quota reservation waiting list. one day. The Overnight permit is Call Center: 877-444-6777 WILDERNESS LEAVE NO TRACE TRAVEL TIPS Walk-in Permits Help ensure that future generations may also experience a pristine You must be in person at one of wilderness by using the “Minimum Impact—Leave No Trace” the Inyo National Forest permit Website: techniques. The following backcountry travel tips are based on principles issuing locations to request a free www.recreation.gov developed by the national Leave No Trace program. For more details walk-in permit. Walk-in permits visit www.lnt.org. are available starting at 11 A.M. Additional information is • Plan Ahead and Prepare on the day before the trip entry available at: • Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces date. Any reserved permits that are • Dispose of Waste Properly not claimed by the confirmation www.fs.usda.gov/inyo • Leave What You Find deadline are cancelled, and made available for walk-in permits. • Minimize Campfire Impacts • Respect Wildlife • Be Considerate of Other Visitors TOP 10 HIKING ESSENTIALS Are you ready for weather, darkness or an injury? Search and rescue teams are wonderful people, but they are the one group you don’t want to meet on a hike or backpack. • Map and compass • Extra food & water • First aid kit • Flashlight, extra batteries & bulb • Sunglasses & sunscreen • Pocketknife • Extra clothing & rain gear • Emergency shelter • Matches in a waterproof container • Signal (whistle and a mirror) Along Bishop Pass Trail 3 Mono Lake/ June Lake

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See map, page 4 Panum Crater. This “rhyolite plug” PROTECT Mono Lake is a majestic body of volcano erupted only 650 years + water covering 60 square miles; 13 ago. Collecting obsidian or rocks Help Protect the Mono Basin National Forest miles east-west by 8 miles north- is prohibited. Scenic Area south. It is an ancient lake, over Please follow these rules to protect these unique and fragile 700,000 years old–one of the oldest Mono Mills resources: lakes in North America. The ghost town of Bodie is just 1. Do not climb on, move, or remove tufa formations. north of the Mono Basin and was Mono Lake is two-and-a-half once supported by the logging and 2. Do not collect any rocks, minerals, or vegetation within the times as salty as sea water. It may mill efforts that took place at the Scenic Area. seem an inhospitable environment, Mono Mills historic site. Located but the water is teeming with approximately six miles to the east 3. If boating, do not approach congregations of birds. Stay life –brine shrimp and alkali fly of South Tufa, visitors can learn at least 200 yards from any osprey nest, occupied or not. Do larvae. This attracts millions of about the efforts that took place to not approach within one mile of the islands or islets birds as they pass through on their cut, mill, and haul wood to Bodie between April 1 and August 1. migratory flights. via a narrow gauge railroad. 4. Camp only in open areas. Camping along the lake in To protect the outstanding geologic, “recessional lands” is only allowed in designated areas and ecologic and scenic resources of Tioga Pass Mono Basin, it was designated as Drive up Hwy. 120 West towards requires a permit. a National Forest Scenic Area by Yosemite National Park, over a Congress in 1984. breathtaking historic route known as Tioga Pass. Mountain lakes, lush South Tufa meadows, and snow covered peaks provide an unforgettable alpine Access the waters of Mono Lake greeting. Hwy. 120 W. (Tioga and walk among towering tufa Pass) closes annually during the towers five miles east of Hwy 395 winter months. on Hwy 120 East. A self-guided nature trail is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day. June Lake For beautiful alpine scenery, you Free ranger-led tours occur daily can’t miss the June Lake Loop. May – October. South Tufa is Hwy. 158 gives access to a chain a federal fee area, so be sure to of gorgeous lakes nestled in a purchase a National Interagency steep horseshoe-shaped canyon. Pass or pay the $3.00/person fee at Campgrounds, hiking trails, fishing, the site (cash only). and lake recreation are popular. A pack station is located near Silver Panum Crater Lake. Boat rentals are available at the Grant Lake, Gull Lake, Silver The youngest mountain range in North America, the Mono Craters, Lake, and June Lake marinas. can be experienced by visiting Along Lee Vining Creek 5 Mammoth Lakes/ Rock Creek

Mammoth Lakes Basin is housed in the original log cabin built by Emmett Hayden, See Map, page 7 for the map maker of the Eastern Sierra. Mammoth Lakes Area. Located on Sherwin Creek Road along Mammoth Creek and next to Twin Lakes, and Mary, George, Sierra Meadows Ranch, the cabin Mamie and Horseshoe Lakes are sits in a lovely park-like setting. located along Lake Mary Road. These lake beds were scooped Minaret Vista out of solid rock by glaciers and Impressive views of the Ritter are popular for fishing, boating Range to the west and the Inyo/ and photography. Picnic areas White Range to the east. Restrooms and campgrounds are available at and picnic area available. several locations. Lake Mamie, Lakes Basin

Ride the free, open-air trolley from Along Hwy. 395 Hot Creek Rock Creek The Village in Mammoth. The Convict Lake Geological Site Rock Creek is famous for trolley makes stops throughout the glacially-carved Little Lakes Named after the famous shoot-out Hot springs flow into a cold Valley, where more than 50 Lakes Basin and can accommodate between the escaped convicts and mountain stream with beautiful blue lakes are linked by hiking trails twelve bicycles. the sheriff’s posse, this is a popular steaming pools. Open for viewing camping and fishing area. Take from sunrise to sunset. Swimming surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks. The trailhead at the end of the Mammoth Museum a two-mile hike around the lake is prohibited due to geyser hazards, for views of the lake against the mud pots and changing steam vents. road is the highest in the Sierra, See Mammoth Lakes as it was dramatic backdrop of Mt. Morrison. Located 3.5 miles off Hwy. 395 on at 10,300 ft. elevation. Don’t miss over 70 years ago, before paved Ten miles south of Mammoth Lakes Airport/Hatchery Road, eight miles the fall season when quaking aspen roads and electricity. The museum - two miles west of Hwy. 395. south of Mammoth. turn brilliant colors.

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7 Reds Meadow/ Devils Postpile Mandatory Shuttle One reason the valley has remained Reds Meadow & a special place is because of the mandatory shuttle system that was Devils Postpile Shuttle initiated in 1981, which limits crowding and resource damage. It also provides a relaxing alternative to long lines of traffic and trying to find a parking space. The shuttle is mandatory for all visitors, unless they meet one of the following exceptions: • Have a parking placard (for walking disability) • Arrive in vehicles transporting livestock or boats • Visitors with an inflated float tube or non-motorized vessel for use on valley lakes • Hunters transporting weapons or game • Staying overnight at Red’s Meadow Resort or a developed campground • Administrative vehicles Visitors who meet one of these exceptions must pay a standard amenity fee (also valid at Mono Lake South Tufa Reserve and the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest when visiting the same day). Visitors with wilderness permits are required to take the shuttle, which have storage areas to accommodate equipment. Shuttle passes and parking are available at the Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center (Main Lodge Gondola building). Visitors not required to ride the bus can purchase their passes at Minaret Vista Station. The mandatory shuttle bus runs every 20-45 minutes, depending on the time of day. The Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA) offers visitors to Reds Meadow from Mammoth Lakes free public transportation starting at the Main Lodge Adventure Center. The last bus of the day will leave: • The Gondola building at 7 P.M., • Red’s Meadow Resort at 7:45 P.M., • Devils Postpile at 7:55 P.M., • Agnew Meadows at 8:10 P.M., • The last shuttle arrives back at the Gondola Building at 8:30 P.M. Intravalley Shuttle MANDATORY SHUTTLE BUS FEES The mandatory shuttle is discontinued PASSES COST two days after Labor Day. However, ESTA offers a free intravalley shuttle Round Trip $7 per adult, $4 per child (aged 3-15), children 2 and under are free. that runs on the weekends from the Wilderness Hikers $7 per adult, $4 per child (aged 3-15), children 2 and under are free. This weekend after Labor Day through one-time fee is good for the duration of stay in the Valley, based on permit Columbus Day, weather permitting. or reservation. This service will reduce vehicle 3-Day Pass $14 per adult, $8 per child (aged 3-15), children 2 and under are free. congestion on the road, which has made Season Pass $35 per adult, $20 per child (aged 3-15), children 2 and under are free. it difficult to travel throughout the valley in previous fall seasons. Exception Vehicles, Campers $10 per vehicle, Interagency Passes accepted. and Resort Guests The intravalley shuttle will run from the parking area at Reds Meadow Resort to • All shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible and have storage for bikes. Devils Postpile on Saturdays and Sundays • Recreational users of Reds Meadow Valley are encouraged to use the free shuttle service between with service every 30 minutes from Agnew Meadows and Reds Meadow. 10:00am until 3:45pm. Please contact • Muzzles are required on all dogs while on the shuttle bus. ESTA (www.estransit.com) for details. • Rates subject to change: visit http://www.estransit.com/routes-schedule/seasonal/reds-meadow-shuttle/

8 Bishop Creek/ Big Pine Canyon

Bishop Creek Canyon Big Pine Canyon "I sometimes think I climbed enough peaks this summer Bishop is named for rancher Big Pine Creek offers a real treat for to render me a candidate for a padded cell." Samuel Bishop, a First Sergeant the more experienced hiker. Middle --Norman Clyde with the Mariposa Battalion, who Palisade Glacier, the southernmost settled here in the 1860s, when glacier in North America can be the Owens Valley was being spotted from the parking area near settled by cattlemen and miners. Glacier Lodge. The glacier can be reached by a strenuous nine-mile Three main drainages of Bishop hike from the road end in Big Pine Creek – the North (North Canyon. Palisade Crest, rising above Lake), Middle (Lake Sabrina), 14,000 feet, contains some of the and South (South Lake) forks finest and most challenging alpine comprise Bishop Creek Canyon. climbing in California. Popular with anglers, campers, and hikers/backpackers. Look for Clyde Peak and Clyde Glacier, named for early Climbing and bouldering are popular in locations such as the mountaineer Norman Clyde, who Buttermilks or the Druid Stones pioneered many of the first routes in the shoulder seasons when it ascents and climbing routes in the is cooler. Eastern Sierra (and elsewhere). Palisades Glacier © Erin Noesser

Bishop Creek Big Pine Canyon

9 WhiteWhite Mountain/ Mountain/Bristlecone Bristlecone Pines Pines The White Mountain Road Leeann Murphy © Bristlecone pine To the east of the Owens Valley stand the Inyo and White HIKING TRAILS mountain ranges. White Mountain Discover Trail Peak is the third-highest peak in 1 mile loop / Easy California at 14,246 feet, shorter This is a great hike for than Mount Whitney by a mere beginners and anyone not 248 feet. wanting to do the longer Methuselah Trail. Hike These Great Basin ranges differ amongst trees that, besides greatly from the Sierra range their scientific value, are both in structure and in climate. beautiful, with their twisted The White Mountains are in arid and gnarled trunks which have desert and seem an unlikely place withstood the test of time. to find the oldest living trees, the bristlecone pines. Methuselah Trail 4.50 mile loop / Moderate The bristlecones have survived Get an up-close look at the for more than 40 centuries, and ancients. This 4.5-mile hike individual trees live to around is a magical trek through a 5,000 years old. land of ancient trees and high desert mountain environments. The trees survive in a niche ecosystem. These tenacious B.C., are used in a variety of survivors live where other trees research programs, including the and animals do not. They have reconstruction of climatic history, adapted to severe weather (heat measurement of past isotope and cold), grow in dolomitic concentrations in the atmosphere, (alkaline) soil, and endure long and calibration of the radio- droughts. This also means that carbon time scale. their competitors and pests are few. Visit the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest Visitor Center to learn Their great age has attracted more about these special trees. world-wide interest. Tree ring Open in the late spring to fall, as chronologies, dating back to 6700 weather permits.

10 Independence

Onion Valley Eastern California One of many popular steep canyon Museum roads that lead into the Sierra This museum in Independence Nevada. Trailhead to Kearsarge features exhibits that reflect Pass and several multiple-day the diverse natural and cultural hikes into Sequoia National Park. heritage of Inyo County and the Owens Valley. Includes an impressive collection of Native Manzanar National American baskets and equipment Historic Site from the construction of the Los Manzanar was the first of 10 Angeles Aqueduct. relocation camps, confining Japanese-Americans during World Mt. Whitney War II. The historic high school Historic Fish Hatchery auditorium now serves as the The hatchery building, completed site’s interpretive center, featuring in 1916, is a beautiful and unique extensive exhibits and audio- structure with hand-laid stone visual programs. You can tour the walls and hand-hewn timbers grounds, reconstructed barracks, which houses an interpretive and see many of the foundations and center focusing on wildlife of the remnants of the elaborate gardens. Eastern Sierra. Big Pothole Lake, Kearsage Pass Trail

11 Lone Pine/ Mount Whitney

In the early 1860s, the first settlers Alabama Hills of Lone Pine gave the town its The Alabama Hills Special name because of a single, large pine Recreation Area, proposed to tree at the confluence of Lone Pine be a National Scenic Area, is and Tuttle Creeks. (The tree blew managed by the Bureau of Land down during a storm in 1876.) Management- Bishop Field Office. The amazing scenery – oddly Mt. Whitney rounded rocks backed by the The 14,494-foot summit of Mt. jagged high peaks of the Sierra Whitney is the highest point in the – creates a wonderful setting contiguous United States. It is a for recreation. The weathering non-technical hike in the summer of granite hills has created the unusual shapes, arches, and months, making it an extremely canyons particular to the area. popular destination for hikers (special permits required) and a Hike, fish, motor tour, horseback destination for winter mountaineers ride, or bike any route not signed at other times. as closed, try rock climbing on one of the 200 sport routes, For an unobstructed view of the or explore some of the movie peak, drive a few miles west on locations (pick up the Movie Road Whitney Portal Road through the Self-Guided Tour at the Museum Alabama Hills. of Film History). Mt. Whitney © Joel Sladky

12 Eastern Sierra Recreation

PASSES INTERAGENCY PASSES

Annual Pass Outfitters and Guides Fishing Season $80 annually The Inyo National Forest does not Mono and Inyo County fishing • Purchased from BLM, endorse any of the businesses on season typically starts the last FWS, NPS, Reclamation this list but guides operating under Saturday in April (south of and USFS recreation fee permit are held to a high standard of Independence Creek typically areas. Covers access to customer service and environmental starts the first Saturday of March) and use of BLM, FWS, NPS, protection, they hold insurance and ends on November 15th of Reclamation, and USFS and possess various certifications every year. sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees. in their various fields of expertise. This information below is available Catch-and-Release to help our visitors make the most Fisheries out of their trip to the forest. The catch-and-release fisheries of the Upper Owens River above the https://www.fs.usda.gov/ ESIA Benton Bridge to Big Springs, the detail/inyo/recreation/ Donate to the Eastern East Walker River below Bridgeport hiking/?cid=stelprdb5151567 Sierra Interpretive Reservoir, and Hot Creek, remain open year-round. These fisheries Senior Pass Association Pack Trips are zero limits, no bait of any kind, $10 lifetime pass (rate subject to change) Please consider donating to Pack trips on horseback are barbless hooks only. The Lower Owens River outside of Bishop • Purchased from BLM, FWS, the Eastern Sierra Interpretive available into the wilderness for day NPS, Reclamation and USFS Association (ESIA) to ensure or overnight trips throughout the remains open year-round. recreation fee areas. Must by further protection for the Inyo Inyo National forest. This list does 62 and a U.S. resident National Forest. not imply endorsement by the U.S. Fishing License • Covers same access as Dept. of Agriculture of any product Requirements Annual Pass, but also covers These donations benefit or service and may not be complete. Anglers 16 years of age and older 50% discount for some the US National Forest must have a fishing license. You expanded amenity fees such Visitor Centers and support https://www.fs.usda.gov/ as camping at USFS can purchase an annual, one-day educational, interpretive, Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/ campgrounds. or two-day fishing license (valid and stewardship projects stelprd3792442.pdf for two consecutive calendar days). Access Pass throughout the Eastern Sierra. Free - lifetime pass Information concerning license Fishing requirements and fees may be • Obtain in person at BLM, Visit http://esiaonline.org/ for FWS, NPS, Reclamation and obtained from the Department of Fish more details or you can visit The Eastern Sierra is loved by USFS recreation fee areas. and Wildlife by calling 760-934-2664. anyone of the ESIA bookstores anglers. You’ll find great trout • Provide proof of permanent fishing in our many lakes, rivers and Fishing licenses may be purchased at disability and residency. in five of Inyo National Forest streams, stocked by the Department sporting goods stores throughout Inyo • Covers the same access Visitor Centers. and Mono counties. as the Annual Pass, but also of Fish and Wildlife (DFW). covers 50% discount for some expanded amenity fees such as camping at USFS campgrounds.

King cup cactus 13 CAMPGROUNDS

Campgrounds curious and have learned to see Campfire Permits & people as a source of food. Do your Fire Restrictions Camping is one of the most part to keep our bears wild and treasured outdoor experiences California Campfire Permits are enjoy the experience of seeing a for family and friends. Good required for all Inyo National bear behave naturally, foraging for news: there are 97 campgrounds Forest lands (and nearby Bureau grasses, ants, and berries, instead of on the Inyo National Forest, 15 of Land Management and State- in your camp or in your car. campgrounds run by counties response lands) for the use of a and other agencies (NPS, BLM), Bears will visit your campsite if you campfire, propane stove, lantern and more than 17 privately-run don’t take the precau tion of storing or any open flame unless you are campgrounds that are open in the your food properly. In developed in a developed recreation area summer months and some of these campgrounds, if you are more than (campground or picnic area). stay open year-round. Services

an arm’s length away from your PHOTOS.COM range from tent camping to sites © food, use the bear resistant food Permits are available free-of-charge for RVs. lockers (normally 48 inches wide, at offices of the Forest Service, CAMPFIRE WOOD 29 inches deep and 38 inches high For campground reservations on Bureau of Land Management, The following suggested (24 cubic feet) – large enough to guidelines are in effect: forest, NPS, and BLM lands, visit and the California Department store coolers. www.recreation.gov. of Forestry and Fire Protection. 1. One-quarter cord or less Regulations governing campfires may be collected on National The preferred method of storing Forest land for use in Please get a copy of “Campgrounds, are specific to each National Forest food is to use the food lockers campgrounds. Fuel wood Inyo National Forest” from the and change with weather conditions provided in campgrounds and at may be collected by hand visitor centers if you want more only. Unused wood cannot be trailheads, or to plan so that no food and the seasons - to protect yourself detailed information about camping. removed from the forest. is left behind in your car. and the forest, before each visit, check with the Forest Service for 2. Wood must be dead and down. Pets and Camping Always clean up your camp of food current campfire restrictions. 3. Chainsaw use in camp Pets are welcome in the and trash promptly after meals so grounds is not permitted. campgrounds but must be kept that bears are less likely to visit Campfire permits can also be 4. If buying, use local firewood leashed and under control at all your camp. Tents are not smell- obtained online (http://www.prevent to prevent spread of disease times. Pick up your pet’s waste. proof or bear-proof; therefore you wildfireca.org/Campfire-Permit/). and insects. shouldn’t store food or anything Pets are not allowed at June Lake Beach. with a fragrance inside them.

Primitive/ Dispersed Feeding bears, while potentially Camping hazardous to people, is also detrimental to bears. Our food may All National Forest lands are not provide them with enough of open to dispersed camping unless the right calories to sustain them otherwise posted. Check at a through winter. In their search for Visitor Center for a map that shows food, bears can become aggressive what areas are closed to camping. towards people. Eventually, the The advantages to this type “problem” bear may have to be of camping are many – peace, euthanized. A fed bear is a dead solitude, and adventure. bear. Is it the bear that’s the problem or the people that have There are a few rules to follow: been feeding it? 1. You will need to have a California fire permit for all fires The Inyo National Forest has including stoves and charcoal grills retrofitted trash dumpsters to (free at a Visitor Center) or online make them bear-resistant, and at http://www.preventwildfireca. all campgrounds now have bear- org/Campfire-Permit/. resistant dumpsters. Where lockers 2. Check for current fire restrictions. are not available, proper food 3. Follow Leave No Trace storage by campers is critical. The techniques listed on page 5. Inyo National Forest has adopted 4. 28-day stay limit on any district. regulations similar to the National Park Service’s regulations, and Bears and Food Storage campers can be cited if they fail to Much of the Inyo National Forest is store their food properly. American black bear habitat. They It may take a long time, but the belong here. goal is to “teach” bears that humans are not an opportunity for a free Bears are extremely intelligent and and easy lunch.

14 Tread Lightly!

The forest has many unpaved roads of varied terrain that provide miles of fun for the mountain bike or off-highway vehicle (OHV) rider.

Pick up the brochure which shows designated routes and follow the few simple rules listed here, and remember to… tread lightly! PHOTOS.COM iSTOCK © ©

Tips for Mountain Biking and OHV Touring Stay on Open Forest Roads • Be prepared for sudden changes in weather. Stop by the Visitor Centers to get your copy of the California Trail Users • Don’t ride alone, be sure to tell someone where you plan to ride and Coalition (CTUC) maps and Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) to help then stick to your plans. plan your adventure. Inquire about current conditions. In addition: • Don’t take unnecessary chances – help for emergencies may be miles away. • Closed roads will be posted. Not all bicycle trails are open to OHV use. • If OHVs are operated outside of designated OHV terrain, including • Comply with signs and barriers, and leave gates as you found them. campgrounds, they must be “street legal” and obey the posted speed limits. • Wilderness areas are off-limits to all bicycles and motorized vehicles. OHV Regulations Protect the Environment • Off-Highway Vehicles must have a California Green or Red Sticker • Minimize erosion by staying on trails and not cutting switchbacks. or be registered with the Dept. of Motor Vehicles and have a USFS- • Meadows, lake shores, stream banks and vegetation are easily damaged. approved spark arrester. Avoid wet, muddy areas as they are more susceptible to erosion. • Out of-state OHV operators must carry their out-of-state • Do not drive on snow-covered roads! identification and don’t need a California Green Sticker. • Teach new riders trail etiquette. • If your state doesn’t require registration, you must purchase a non- • Don’t litter! Pack it in and pack even more out resident sticker. • Lead by example. Further information is available at Visitor Centers. Ride Safely, Stay in Control • You share the forest with other users. Be considerate of hikers and equestrians. Horses can be unpredictable, so yield to them on the downhill side of the trail and announce yourself from behind. • Wear your helmet and protective gear!

Plan Your Trip • Take the 10 essentials (see page 3) plus a tool kit, extra gas, and a tow strap and winch. Know how to use them

15 Inyo National Forest VISITOR CENTERS

Maps, Guides, Books, and Educational Products Lee Mono Basin The Eastern Sierra Interpretive Association Vining . Scenic Area Visitor Center (ESIA) was established in the early 1970s to help the Inyo National Forest provide information and interpretive programs for the public. ESIA INYO operates outstanding bookstores in the five Inyo Benton NATIONAL FOREST National Forest Visitor Centers listed below. Mammoth Lakes Proceeds from these operations support numerous June California INYO public land management agency and other Lake Welcome Center NATIONAL priority projects and programs. ESIA’s goals are . to educate and inspire people about this region, FOREST to encourage them to get to Mammoth Lakes know the area better, and to Inyo enable everyone to be effective National Forest stewards of these resources. ESIA’s vision is to create strong Visitor Centers Ancient There are five visitor centers located in emotional and intellectual Bristlecone Pine connections between people the Inyo National Forest. All visitor centers Visitor offer interpretive displays, staff to answer Bishop . Center and the Eastern Sierra, and to your questions and bookstores teeming with . White motivate everyone to protect area information and maps provided by the Mountain and preserve this region Eastern Sierra Interpretive Association. Public Lands Interpretive programs are also often available. Information through responsible behavior Call or write for further information Center and personal investments. www.fs.usda.gov/inyo

Big Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center Pine 760-647-3044 INYO US 395, P.O. Box 429, Lee Vining, CA 93541 NATIONAL Summer hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily Spring & Fall hours: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Thursday - Monday FOREST Subject to closure December through March

Mammoth Lakes California Welcome Center 760-924-5500 2510 Hwy 203 P.O. Box 148, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 Open 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily Independence White Mountain Public Lands Information Center 760-873-2500 798 N. Main Street, Bishop, CA 93514 Summer hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily Lone Winter hours: 8:30 a.m. - 12 noon and 1 - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday Pine This publication has been made possible through the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest Visitor Center . cooperative efforts of the U.S. Summer hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily Eastern Sierra Forest Service, and the Eastern Spring & Fall hours: Weekends only, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visitor Center Sierra Interpretive Association, a nonprofit organization. Eastern Sierra Visitor Center 760-876-6200 Your donations and P.O. Box R, Lone Pine, CA 93545-2017 membership to ESIA will help in continuing to provide Open 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily INYO publications and programs NATIONAL throughout the Eastern Sierra.

Follow Inyo National Forest on Facebook and Twitter! FOREST Olancha http://esiaonline.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inyonf Twitter: @inyoinfo

5/2017