BISHOP, to a Californian, means outdoor pursuits. Bishop is the largest town (population 3500) and an agricultural community in the rich Owens Valley. It's the gateway to Mammoth Lakes and Mammoth Mountain and forms an excellent base for cross-country skiing, fly-fishing and especially rock-climbing. Furthermore, it’s easy to get to with Reno–LA Greyhound buses (one a day in either direction) stopping at 201 S Warren St.

Visit the historic buildings and exhibits at the Laws Railroad Museum in Bishop as well as the Paiute Shoshone Indian Cultural Center Museum. East of Bishop, in the Inyo National Forest, take a look at the oldest living things on earth, the gnarled bristlecone pines, more than 4,700 years old.

The visitor center at 690 N Main St (Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat & Sun 10am–4pm; tel 760/873-8405) can provide details of the many adventure travel specialists based in town. 

For hiking and camping information, the White Mountain Ranger Station, 798 N Main St (July & Aug daily 8am–5pm; rest of year Mon–Fri 8am–4.30pm; tel 760/873-2500), will be more use.