The best traffic-free bike rides in Inyo National Forest

The Whitney Portal Road offers a truly epic touring cycling experience, winding through dramatic landscapes that transform from the otherworldly rock formations of the Alabama Hills to the towering granite cliffs of the Eastern Sierra Nevada. As you climb, you'll be treated to sweeping views of the Owens Valley and a unique perspective of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. It's a journey of constantly changing scenery, from high desert to mountainous terrain, culminating at the famous Whitney Portal.

This is a demanding ride, so plan your visit carefully. The road is typically open from early May to November, but snow closes it during the winter months, though it might be accessible to bikes even when closed to cars in spring. Be prepared for a sustained and difficult climb, but know that amenities like a store and restaurant await you at Whitney Portal, making it a great place to refuel before your descent.

Consistently ranked among the toughest bike climbs in the U.S., this 12.2-mile (19.7 km) route features a staggering 4670 feet (1423 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete for a difficult touring cyclist. The average gradient hovers around 7.4-7.7%, with some sections hitting a brutal 14%, especially around the prominent hairpin turns. The road was repaved recently, offering excellent conditions for the ascent, though watch out for expansion joints on the descent.

The Mammoth Lakes to Convict Lake loop is a challenging touring cycling route that immerses you in the raw beauty of the Eastern Sierra. As you pedal, you'll transition from the sagebrush flats to sweeping vistas of rugged mountains, culminating in the breathtaking sight of Mt. Morrison and Laurel Mountain mirrored in the pristine Convict Lake. This difficult 22.8-mile (36.7 km) ride, with its 1476 feet (450 metres) of elevation gain, offers a truly memorable experience over approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes.

Planning your ride requires acknowledging the high altitude; ensure you're well-hydrated and acclimatized before tackling this loop. While the route is predominantly on paved roads, keep an eye out for potential glass on the shoulder of US 395. For parking, you'll find options in Mammoth Lakes, and Convict Lake provides convenient amenities like a store and restaurant for a mid-ride break. Checking weather conditions for Mammoth Lakes Convict Lake cycling before you go is always a good idea.

Beyond the physical challenge, this route offers a unique blend of natural beauty and history. Convict Lake is not only a scenic viewpoint but also holds a dramatic past, named after a famous 1871 shootout involving escaped convicts. The opportunity to cycle at such high elevations provides a distinct physical test, and the route's interconnectivity with other paths near Mammoth Lakes offers further exploration for those seeking more adventures.

The Owens River loop offers a unique touring cycling experience through the stunning high desert landscape of the Owens Valley. You'll pedal alongside the historic Owens River, with constant, dramatic views of the towering Sierra Nevada and Inyo/White Mountain ranges. This moderate 23.6-mile (37.9 km) route, with 379 feet (116 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete. Expect a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, including gravel doubletrack and dirt roads, offering a true gravel cycling adventure.

For the best experience on this route, plan your visit during spring or fall, as summer temperatures in the Owens Valley can be extremely high. The town of Bishop is an ideal starting and ending point, providing easy access to amenities like cafes and pubs. Given the semi-arid climate, it's crucial to carry ample water, especially if you're riding during warmer periods.

This trail is notable for its geological diversity, showcasing evidence of volcanic activity and unique features within the Owens Valley. The Owens River itself holds significant historical importance due to its role in the Los Angeles Aqueduct project. The route provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the extreme topographical features of the region, from high peaks to the valley floor.

This touring cycling route from Mammoth Mountain Resort to Devil's Postpile National Monument offers an incredible journey through the Eastern Sierra's dramatic landscape. You'll descend through dense forests and canyons, with panoramic views of the jagged Minarets from Minaret Vista, eventually reaching the unique geological formations of Devil's Postpile. The 16.9-mile (27.1 km) ride involves a significant 2016 feet (614 metres) of elevation loss, making it a thrilling downhill experience, though the return climb is a difficult challenge that takes around 2 hours and 2 minutes.

Planning your visit requires attention to the seasonal conditions and traffic on Minaret Road, also known as Reds Meadow Road. This narrow, winding road is often closed to public vehicles from October to June due to snow, offering a quieter ride. During the open season, consider an early start to avoid peak vehicle traffic, as downhill cyclists must yield to uphill traffic. Shuttle buses are an option for the return trip, but be aware that bike space can be limited and fees apply.

What truly sets this route apart is its destination: Devil's Postpile National Monument, a natural wonder featuring towering, hexagonal columnar basalt formations. These 60-foot high columns, formed from ancient lava flows, are a sight to behold, with some even polished smooth by glacial action. The area also provides access to other natural features like Rainbow Falls, an hour's hike from the monument, adding to the allure of this unique Eastern Sierra adventure.

The South Lake — Bishop touring cycling route is a relentless climb through the stunning High Sierra, offering a true test of endurance for advanced cyclists. As you ascend, the landscape transforms from dry, cracked pavement near Bishop to smooth, recently rebuilt roads winding past vibrant aspens and into the high-country. The reward for your effort is the serene beauty of South Lake, a picturesque man-made lake nestled at 9,755 feet, making the challenging 15.2-mile (24.5 km) journey with 2276 feet (694 metres) of elevation gain well worth it.

Planning your visit requires acknowledging the route's difficulty; the high altitude significantly impacts oxygen levels, so be prepared for a strenuous effort, especially in the final miles. The estimated duration is around 1 hour and 57 minutes for the ascent, but allow extra time for breaks and enjoying the views. The descent is long and fast, demanding good bike handling skills and reliable brakes. This is a route best tackled during clear weather, typically from late spring through fall, to avoid snow and ice at higher elevations.

This route is renowned as one of the hardest climbs in the United States, attracting cyclists who relish a significant physical challenge. The road itself, particularly the section leading to South Lake, was rebuilt in 2020, ensuring excellent conditions for touring cyclists. Beyond the physical feat, the route provides access to the John Muir Wilderness and Inyo National Forest, offering a gateway to further exploration of this iconic California landscape.