"To the Ends of the Eastside & Beyond" - Trip & Conditions Reports

Join Eastside Sports staffer Shelley (@iloveeasternsierra) on a scenic July 4th drive through Mono County and Tuolumne Meadows. With stunning wildflowers, iconic domes, and easy roadside hikes, this adventure proves you don’t need a big plan to experience the beauty of the Eastern Sierra.

Staff member Jonathan and a friend explored the Gable Lakes Trail and scrambled to the summit of Peak 12,808’ in late June 2025. This quiet Eastern Sierra route offers wildflowers, alpine lakes, and big views—perfect for hikers seeking solitude and adventure outside Bishop.

Staff member (and photographer) Shelley celebrated her birthday with a short hike to Lake Sabrina’s far end. The trail is dry, mellow, and bursting with wildflowers—perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities looking for a peaceful, colorful escape into the Eastern Sierra alpine.

Our shop owners headed into the High Sierra for a long weekend escape over Pine Creek Pass. The trail was in excellent shape, the alpine views were stunning, and the mosquitoes were… persistent. Here's what they found, from wildflowers to summit scrambles and peaceful camps at Royce Lakes.

Local adventurer @nattydil shares the latest conditions from a Sierra High Route section near McGee Pass. Expect snow patches, firm avalanche debris, and icy side slopes—ice axe and foot traction strongly recommended! Final switchbacks are nearly clear with scramble-able workarounds.

Eastside Sports staffer Tess made the most of her days off by climbing the iconic North Arete of Matterhorn Peak in the rugged Sawtooth Range. With bluebird skies, solid alpine granite, and just enough lingering snow to keep it spicy, this early summer classic is in great shape!

Pressed for time or looking for a mellow outing? Staff member Shelley (@iloveeasternsierra) shares how just a slow drive up Highway 168 west of Bishop delivers peak Eastern Sierra beauty—complete with waterfalls, wildflowers, and magic you don’t have to hike for.

Get the latest conditions for hiking White Mountain Peak via Barcroft Gate. Trail is nearly snow-free with stunning summit views and clear skies. Learn what to expect, how to prepare for altitude, and when the Patriarch Grove road will fully open. Marmot tips and gear suggestions included!

Snow is rapidly melting on the Bishop Pass Trail with only patchy snow after Spearhead Lake and near the pass. A narrow snow-free line now runs up the final switchbacks. Foot traction still recommended. Mosquitoes are emerging—especially at dawn and dusk. Conditions improving daily for summer hikers!

Snow is slowly melting on the Mt. Whitney Main Trail, and both routes on the 99 Switchbacks are currently in use. Lower elevations are mostly snow-free. Check in with Eastside Sports in Bishop for updates, gear recommendations, or expert help planning your ascent to California’s tallest peak.

PCT and JMT hikers, take note: Forester Pass is still holding deep snow and a sizable cornice as of June 14. Thanks to PCT hiker “Green Light” for the report! Trail is melting fast, but traction, ice axe, and an early start are still essential. Read the full conditions update here.

Looking for an easy and rewarding Eastern Sierra walk? Explore Shelley’s favorite trail near Parcher’s Resort and Rainbow Pack Outfitters. This short out-and-back stroll features vibrant wildflowers, stunning waterfalls, and peaceful meadows—perfect for seniors, families, or anyone seeking a scenic moment without the mileage.