We got a little bit of snow in Owens Valley last week! It’s not a common occurrence, and we sure welcome the beneficial moisture. The mountains on either side of Bishop were blanketed with a beautiful late-winter coat—setting the stage for excellent spring skiing and a promising summer fishing season.
Longer days and warming temperatures invite more time outdoors and fresh exploration. From early wildflowers beginning to bloom in the desert to world-class recreation across the Eastern Sierra, this season is full of energy and change. As the landscape continues to wake up, Bishop remains the perfect basecamp for adventure, relaxation, and discovering all the reasons this small town has such a big backyard.
Register For The Blake Jones Trout Derby
The Blake Jones Trout Derby on Saturday, March 21, 2026 is one of California’s longest-running and largest single-day trout fishing contests! Anglers of all ages can fish Pleasant Valley Reservoir and the Owens River using the fun blind bogey format, with prizes for early-bird signups, big fish, catch-and-release, and more. Registration, weigh-in, and the awards ceremony take place at the Eastern Sierra Tri-County Fairgrounds in downtown Bishop, and there’s plenty of activities for families too. This classic community event celebrates our fishing heritage and offers cash, gear, and local prizes valued at nearly $10,000.
Register by 2/28 For Earlybird Prizes!
Wildflower Season Starts Now Through July
The first blooms are starting to appear across the desert landscapes and in Death Valley National Park, signaling the start of what is shaping up to be a fantastic year for flowers thanks to generous fall and winter rains. What makes our region truly unique is the dramatic elevation range around Bishop, where blooms begin on the valley floor and continue upward into the high country. As spring turns to summer, flowers will keep emerging at higher elevations, with areas above 12,000 feet often blooming into early July. This 6-month wildflower season creates months of color and an ever changing landscape for visitors to enjoy.
Easy Winter Hikes Near Bishop
While winter brings cooler temperatures to much of the West, this region offers comfortable winter weather perfect for getting outside and discovering scenic trails. From classic experiences like the Mobius Arch Trail in the Alabama Hills to other gentle paths that unwind through striking desert and mountain landscapes, there are plenty of ways to enjoy nature on foot this time of year. For tips on easy hikes and winter walking trails in the Bishop area, check out our guide.
Get The Weekly Climbing Conditions Report
Stay up to date with the weekly Bishop climbing report. From world class bouldering in the Buttermilks to classic routes throughout the Owens Valley, current conditions can make all the difference when planning a day on the rock. Our weekly climbing report shares timely updates on weather, access, and climbing conditions so visitors and locals alike can make the most of their time outdoors. Check the latest report and plan your next climb.
Fly To Bishop This Winter
FLY TO BISHOP!
United Airlines offers seasonal flights to/from San Francisco and Denver. You can connect to anywhere in the world from there!
Additional flights have been added for the winter season:
San Francisco (SFO) → Bishop (BIH)
· Daily Flights run Dec. 11, 2025 – Apr. 4, 2026.
· Two flights run on Saturdays: Dec. 20 – Jan. 3 and Feb. 14 – Apr. 4
**Summer Service flights to SFO will run May 21-October 23, 2026
Denver (DEN) → Bishop (BIH)
· Daily Flights run Dec. 18, 2025 – Apr. 27, 2026.
· Two flights run on weekends from Dec. 19 – Apr. 4:
· • One additional flight arrives Fri PM / departs Sat AM
· • One additional flight arrives Sat PM / departs Sun AM
Pro Tip: Make ground transportation reservations BEFORE you take off for Bishop! While rideshare service is limited, we do have door-to-door Dial a Ride service with Eastern Sierra Transit. They also have shuttle service to other communities.
Other options include: Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Mammoth Taxi and Mammoth All Weather Shuttle.
Plan Your Trip – Create an Itinerary
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