White Mountains Inyo National Forest Backway

At 10,000 feet, you’re driving through groves of bristlecone pines that were alive when Rome fell. The White Mountain Road climbs from the Owens Valley floor through pinyon-juniper country into the ancient forest, where some trees are over 4,000 years old. The rocky, winding track passes the Schulman Grove visitor area before continuing north along the ridge, offering unobstructed views of the Sierra Nevada across the valley below.

This is moderate 4×4 territory — high clearance essential, low range recommended for the steeper pitches. The road can be rough with embedded rocks and loose sections, but it’s generally manageable for experienced drivers. Best tackled June through October when snow clears. Fuel up in Bishop and carry extra water; this high desert country will dehydrate you fast. What you get is solitude among the world’s oldest living trees and some of the most expansive mountain views in California.