Find the Most Amazing Views Along California Route 395
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Speaking of road trips in California, the beautiful coastal highway 101 is undoubtedly on everyone’s bucket list. However, the less traveled hwy 395 has recently become one of our favorites. It will wow its visitors with the oldest living tree in the world, the weirdest rock formation and stunning fall colors that you will never expect to find in California. Here’s a list of our recommended spots along 395.
Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
From Big Pine, the drive to the Ancient Bristlcone Pine forest up into the mountains is around 50 minutes. Home to the largest bristlecone pine, some of the trees here well exceed 4000 years old including the oldest living non-clonal organisms on our planet which is believed to be over 5000 years old! Nearby the visitor center, there are several trails for you to explore depending on your time. The trail also offers some great photograph opportunity, including the twisted tree trunks with interesting pine cone colors and views of the Great Basin in Nevada. If you are planning to visit Bishop, be sure to add this spot as one of your stops.
Devils Postpile National Monument
Located near Mammoth, the Devils Postpile formation is a geologic wonder not to be missed. It’s an easy 0.4 mile hike from the trailhead. If you wish to continue, rainbow fall is just 2.1 mile ahead. This trail is also pet friendly which is another great reason to bring your furry companion with you on the trip 🙂
Fall Color – Various spots in Mono County
Fall colors are one of the reasons I fell in love with hwy395. Most spots usually peak during different weeks of October depending on the elevation and weather of the year. Higher elevation often turns earlier than lower elevation. Leaf peeping is truly luck based and requires one to be flexible about their trip planning.
Yosemite National Park
With millions of visitors every year, Yosemite National Park should definitely be on your list for a 395 road trip. Although every season has its charm, Spring is the best time for waterfall viewing. During the Fall, waterfalls all dry up with a few exceptions, such as Bridal Veil Fall. Cathedral Lake trail is another popular hike with forest views and open meadows along the way.
Mono Lake Park & Boardwalk Trail
If you prefer a quiet spot to examine the tufa up close, Boardwalk trail is probably a better place than the crowded south tufa area. Located inside Mono Lake Park and past the grassy picnic area, you will find the trailhead. It’s an easy walk above the wetland and a good area to spot some birds.
This is our favorite so far, but we will be updating when future 395 trips occurs, so be sure to check back sometime! Also, feel free to tell us what are some of your favorites in the comments below 🙂
