03 February 2026 - Trip Report: Chidago Canyon (Volcanic Tablelands) Hike

Some of the best local adventures are also the simplest. Staff member and local photographer Shelley (@ilovetheeasternsierra) recently explored Chidago Canyon in the Volcanic Tablelands, and her experience is a great reminder of how much there is to discover just outside town.

Trip Report: 

Current As Of: 03 February 2026*

Activity During Report: Hiking along dirt roads with gentle gradients

Trip Details: 

I recently took my dogs for a mid-morning walk wandering around Chidago Canyon in the Volcanic Tablelands, and it ended up being one of those outings that’s simple, quiet, and surprisingly fascinating. If you’re looking for an easy way to get outside - without committing to a big hike or technical terrain - this area is well worth checking out.

Getting there is straightforward. From Bishop, drive north on Highway 6, turn left onto Chidago Road, and follow the dirt road until you reach the mouth of the canyon. From there, you can park and start walking, or continue driving farther in and explore from different pullouts. The roads are mellow and make it easy to customize how much or how little you want to walk.

One of the best parts about Chidago Canyon is how accessible it is. Walking is mostly on flat dirt roads, making it suitable for people of all ages and abilities. You don’t need special footwear or hiking experience - just curiosity and a little time. It’s an ideal option for a casual stroll, a family outing, or a low-key day when you still want to feel immersed in the landscape.

The geology here is what really steals the show. The Volcanic Tablelands are full of texture and history, and Chidago Canyon has some especially cool hueco features tucked into the canyon walls. Wandering around and spotting these pockets and formations makes the area feel playful and exploratory, even without a defined trail or destination. I brought my camera along and ended up with some great photos just from poking around.

Because the terrain is open and the roads branch off in different directions, it’s easy to wander at your own pace and turn around whenever you feel like it. You can spend fifteen minutes exploring or linger for a couple of hours - it’s entirely up to you. The wide-open views and quiet atmosphere make it a great place to slow down and notice details you might miss on a more structured hike.

If you’re looking for something different from the usual mountain trails, or just want an easy outdoor option that still feels uniquely Eastern Sierra, Chidago Canyon is a great choice. It’s proof that you don’t always need elevation gain or mileage to have a rewarding day outside - sometimes a dirt road, interesting geology, and a little wandering are more than enough.

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