This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Bishop.
The city of Bishop, California, USA, is located in central California near the Nevada border. While only a few thousand people live here, it is the largest populated city in the area, surrounded by picturesque natural scenery. The Owens Valley, in which Bishop is located, experiences an arid climate, and a little bit of snow can be expected in the winter in contrast to warm summers. This is an ideal area to hike, fish, go horseback riding, bike, or go rock climbing.
A well-known tourist attraction in Bishop is Erick Schat's Bakkerÿ. This basque bakery is famous for their special recipe, the Original Sheepherder's Bread, but they have hundreds of other items to offer. Visit here during a mealtime for a delicious sandwich and to taste a few samples.
Bishop is home to the Paiute Tribe, with a still-functioning reservation. You can learn more about this tribe and the history of the valley at the Owens Valley Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center. Another historical museum is located just outside of Bishop, called Laws Railroad Museum and Historic Site.
Outside of the town, you'll find plenty of places for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Visit the lakes, hot springs, mountains, and forests surrounding Bishop, Nearby is Mammoth Lakes, a ski town. This is a good day trip from Bishop. During the non-snowy months, you can enjoy trolley rides through town, bicycling down the slopes, and visiting the quaint downtown shops and restaurants. A little further north will bring you to natural beauties like Obsidian Dome and Mono Lake with its "tufas," or salt towers. Your Bishop, California, USA hostel will place you right in the midst of everything this beautiful area has to offer.
Reflecting the size of this small community, hostels are hard to find. If you do manage to get a hostel reservation in Bishop, expect a small accommodation, but still with standard hostel amenities such as access to a kitchen, common areas, and helpful resources.
Written by local enthusiast for Bishop hostels
Jessica Lippe