Staying in Bishop while skiing in Mammoth Lakes has become a popular option for visitors looking to combine easy access to Mammoth Mountain with more affordable lodging, dining, and Eastern Sierra experiences.
Located about 45 minutes south of Mammoth Lakes along Highway 395, Bishop offers a wider range of hotel rates, restaurants, and services while still providing convenient access to skiing and snowboarding in Mammoth.
Many visitors choose to stay in Bishop for:
- lower lodging costs
- easier parking
- additional restaurant options
- shorter wait times
- access to both mountain and desert recreation
After a day skiing at Mammoth Mountain, visitors can return to Bishop for local restaurants, breweries, bakeries, and lodging options ranging from roadside motels to boutique-style stays and RV parks.
Bishop also provides access to additional Eastern Sierra recreation opportunities during winter months, including:
- climbing in the Buttermilk Country
- hiking in the Volcanic Tablelands
- fishing lower elevation waters
- photography and scenic drives throughout Owens Valley
Because Bishop sits at a lower elevation than Mammoth Lakes, winter weather conditions are often milder while still providing access to Sierra Nevada snow recreation nearby.
Driving Between Bishop & Mammoth
The drive between Bishop and Mammoth Lakes follows Highway 395 through the Eastern Sierra and typically takes between 45 minutes and one hour depending on weather and traffic conditions.
Visitors should always check:
- road conditions
- weather forecasts
- chain restrictions
- Caltrans updates
before traveling during winter storms.
Know Before You Go
Winter conditions in the Eastern Sierra can change quickly. Carry chains when required, allow extra travel time during storms, and prepare for changing mountain weather conditions throughout the region.
