Sierra Vista Scenic Byway

Next time you are visiting Bass Lake, put a ride along Sierra Vista Scenic Byway on your to do list. This picturesque nearly 100-mile loop will take you up in the High Sierras and you will enjoy Yosemite like sights without dealing with the crowds. During this 3-hour drive you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the mountains, breathtaking granite peaks and lush meadows. You can also hike along the trails, visit historic sites, go gold panning, fishing, biking and more…

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Why to visit?

Sierra Vista Scenic Byway leads through the High Sierras, so visitors enjoy similar sights as if they were driving towards Yosemite, but without the traffic or entrance fees. You can enjoy the views from your car or you can choose to get out and explore.

We recommend that you, at some point, take the whole 90-mile loop, but you certainly do not have to. While a lot of visitors choose to break the trip into 3-4 days, camp, explore, hike; there are also those who prefer to take a one-day roadtrip to the most popular stops and historic sites. If you do that, plan to leave early in the morning and only pick one or two sites that you will explore.

3 Reasons to take a ride along the Scenic Byway:

1. Scenic – beautiful views, pleasant and relaxing drive if you don’t mind riding high country roads.
2. Historic – multiple sites with evidence of the past (old buildings), traditions and customs.
3. Recreational – multiple recreational sites are perfect for fishing, biking, picnicking, hiking, camping and more…

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When to visit?

While making your plans to visit, keep in mind that these roads are not plowed. Sierra Vista Scenic Byway is best to explore in late spring until late fall. It closes each year in winter, until the maintenance crews can clear the snow and make it accessible again.

With that said, do not feel like summer is the only time to visit. As soon as the snow is removed in the spring, you will get to enjoy lush meadows covered with wildflowers, blooming dogwoods, rushing creeks and waterfalls. Visit in fall to see the seasons changing, colorful trees, enjoy mild weather and abundance of wildlife.

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What to see?

Depending on which route you take and how many days you have to spare, there are many stop-worthy spots to visit. Here are some of them:

• Exact Center of California – while in North Fork, before you head up the mountains, make sure to visit the Exact Center of California.
• Morman Jimmy’s Cabin and mine
• Mammoth Pool Dam and reservoir – Camp, fish and boat on this beautiful man made lake in the high sierra.

Mammoth Pool Reservoir    |   Image by: Tracy Cody

• Clover Meadow
• Fresno Dome – three mile drive of the byway. It was known to the Mono Indians as the “greeting place”.
• Nelder Grove of Giant Sequoias – small hidden jewel of giant sequoias. It’s located just north of Oakhurst. Short and easy trail, perfect for an afternoon hike.
• Globe Rock – possibly the most photographed place along the scenic byway. Nearly spherical rock was carved out of the granite by the freezing and thawing water.
• Jones Store – located in the in the Beasore Meadow, about 40 min drive up Beasore Rd, which is right across the street from the Pines. The little store offer famous blueberry pies, baked fresh to order, as well as cold drinks, burgers and hot dogs. Completely off the grid and dates back to 1930s.
• more sights…

Beasore Meadow by Jones Store      |   Image by: Dorota Petty

How to prepare?

1. Car – while most roads are paved, there are some that are gravel. Your best bet is to bring a 4 wheel drive vehicle, a truck or an suv. It’s okay if that’s not an option – you will be fine in a compact car. Make sure to pick a part of a byway that’s paved and easy to drive (like up Beasore).
2. Fuel – fuel up before headed up the mountains. Gas station in the Pines or in North Fork are the most convenient places. There are no gas stations in the mountains.
3. Food – make sure to pack plenty of snacks, water and a picnic lunch. Some sights have a recreational spots available with firepits, if you feel like cooking out. Always check for any fire restrictions and put out the fire before you leave. If you want to make it easy on yourself, just grab some sandwiches from Ducey’s or from the Deli at the Pines Market.
4. Weather – educate yourself before leaving. Weather in the mountains changes with elevation. Make sure you, your companion, as well the vehicle are all set for a memorable (not necessary eventful) road trip.
5. Clothing – make sure your clothing is comfortable and suitable for the mountains. Even if you are not planning to explore each site, it is always a good idea to bring comfortable shoes, waterproof jacket and warm hoodie.
6. Camping essentials – even if you are only planning a road trip, consider bringing some camping essentials with you. As they say, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Pack some matches, a flash light (actual flashlight, not in your phone), perhaps a blanket, bug spray, first aid kit. In addition, do not forget a camera, phone charger and extra batteries.

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How to get there?

Sierra Vista Scenic Byway is just 5 miles from the Pines Resort and starts in North Fork. From our parking lot, you will go up by the gas station and then turn East on Road 274 towards North Fork. The entrance to the Byway is just two miles from North Fork on the left.

Source: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/sierra/maps-pubs/?cid=stelprdb5245567&width=full

If you enjoy the great outdoors and family adventures. If you want to experience some of the most beautiful views and interesting historic sites from the comfort of your own car – this is a must see spot for you!