Lone Pine hosts a variety of annual events connected to outdoor recreation, western film history, endurance sports, music, and Owens Valley culture. From trail races and cycling events to film festivals and fishing season celebrations, Lone Pine offers year-round events surrounded by the Sierra Nevada and the Alabama Hills.
Lone Pine Trout Derby (April)
Eastern Sierra fishing opener weekend is one of the busiest spring weekends in Lone Pine and throughout the Owens Valley.
Visitors travel from across California for the opening of trout season in nearby creeks, lakes, and alpine waters throughout the Eastern Sierra. Local businesses, campgrounds, restaurants, and lodging properties often see increased activity during opener weekend each spring.
Owens Lake Bird Festival (April)
The Owens Lake Bird Festival celebrates bird migration, conservation, and the unique ecology of Owens Lake and the Eastern Sierra.
The festival includes guided bird walks, educational programs, photography opportunities, and environmental education connected to the Owens Valley region.
Whiskey Tango Fondo (April)
Whiskey Tango Fondo is a cycling event that brings riders through the scenic roads, desert terrain, and mountain views surrounding Lone Pine and Owens Valley.
The event has become popular among gravel riders and cyclists looking to experience the Eastern Sierra landscape by bike.
Cerro Gordo Silver Run (May)
The Cerro Gordo Silver Run is an endurance running event connected to the historic Cerro Gordo mining district above Owens Lake.
Participants experience steep elevation gain, desert terrain, historic mining landscapes, and panoramic Owens Valley views throughout the course.
Wild West Marathon (May)
The Wild West Marathon brings runners to the Owens Valley for marathon and distance running events beneath Mount Whitney and the Sierra Nevada.
The event highlights Lone Pine’s high desert scenery, open landscapes, and mountain backdrop.
Concert in the Rocks (June)
Concert in the Rocks brings live music performances to the Alabama Hills beneath the Sierra Nevada.
The event combines outdoor music, desert scenery, and the dramatic rock formations surrounding Lone Pine. Event schedules and performances vary seasonally.
John Wayne Grit Series (October)
The John Wayne Grit Series includes endurance events connected to trail running and outdoor recreation in the Alabama Hills and surrounding Owens Valley landscapes.
The event celebrates western landscapes, public lands, and outdoor adventure while drawing participants to the Eastern Sierra.
Lone Pine Film Festival (October)
he Lone Pine Film Festival is the town’s best-known annual event and celebrates the hundreds of movies and television productions filmed throughout the Alabama Hills and Owens Valley.
Held each October, the festival includes movie screenings, guest speakers, film history presentations, guided movie location tours, western film discussions, and community events throughout town. The festival attracts film fans, photographers, historians, and travelers from across the country.
Things to Know Before Attending Events in Lone Pine
Lodging can fill quickly during major event weekends, especially during spring and fall. Weather conditions can change rapidly in both the mountains and desert, and some outdoor events may require advance registration or permits.
Visitors are encouraged to support local businesses and recreate responsibly while attending events throughout the Eastern Sierra.
