Eastern Sierra Adventure

From a solo overnight at Big Pine’s Second Lake to the shores of Lake Tahoe and the granite landscapes of Yosemite, this is my September road trip through California’s Eastern Sierra and beyond. Over 12 days, the route loops from Santa Monica through Big Pine, Mammoth, Reno and Carson City, Lake Tahoe, Bridgeport, Bodie, and June Lake before crossing Tioga Road into Yosemite and heading home. Backpacking, campground nights, and a few hotel breaks give each part of the trip a different pace. The journey begins with the North Fork trail to Second Lake in the Big Pine Lakes basin, with an overnight in the mountains before continuing north to Mammoth. From there, the route passes through Reno and Carson City on the way to several days around Lake Tahoe, with Camp Richardson as a base and Sand Harbor as one of the main stops. Turning south again, the next stretch takes in the Bridgeport and Twin Lakes area, the former gold-mining town of Bodie, and June Lake. This part of the itinerary connects the mountain scenery with a little of the region’s human history before the drive west into Yosemite. The final leg follows Tioga Road across the Sierra, with time set aside for Yosemite’s high country and Valley. Crane Flat provides a base for the last few nights before the return to Santa Monica. This longer video gives the trip room to unfold, from the main destinations to the quieter moments between them. Whether you’re gathering ideas for your own Sierra road trip or settling in to enjoy the journey, thanks for coming along. Trip dates: September 16–27, 2026