Inyo National Forest

Welcome to the incredible Inyo National Forest, an oasis of high mountain tops, blue skies, rivers, and lakes located in the Eastern Sierra of California. The word Inyo is a Paiute term that translates to "the dwelling place of a great spirit." Clearly the Natives thought this was God's country!

Forest History: On May 25, 1907 President Theodore Roosevelt established the Inyo National Forest by special proclamation. It started off as the Inyo Forest Reserve along the banks of the Owens River. But over the yeras she grew in size with land transferred from the Kern and Sierra National Forests and spread out over the Inyo/White Mountain and Sierra Nevada Mountain ranges. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps worked hard to help build the forests roads, trails, fire stations, and bridges. For over a century now the forest has provided millions of people with water, timber, and recreational opportunities. Some of the forest's many natural wonders include Mt. Whitney (highest point in the lower 48 states), the Mammoth Lakes Basin, Mono Lake, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, and seven Congressionally-designated wilderness areas.

Wildlife: The Inyo National Forest helps protect the home of numerous wild critters including squirrels, black bears, deer, mountain lions, and many others. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors the Inyo National Forest boasts over 100 miles of multipurpose trails, the Mammoth Mountain Ski resort, and so much more. Come on out and explore.