Just got back from a business trip to San Diego. When I travel down to there, I prefer to go by way of Highway 395. This road is full of beautiful vistas, including both mountains and desert. The area along the way is known as "California's backbone". In Owens Valley, between Big Pine and Independence, there are some grazing pastures that the owner has opened for nearby herds of elk to graze in. Always a treat to see them along the highway. First saw them back in the early 90's when only a few were grazing, but now the herds seem to total over 100. Going south, I did not stop for pictures and a couple of herds were right next to the highway. Decided to stop going north, but alas, they were further away from the road.
Also shot a picture of the highest point in the continental US; Mt. Whitney. Behind me, about 100 miles to the east, is the lowest point in Death Valley at about -200 feet. The road you see in the picture is Mt. Whitney Portal which goes to the base of the mountain from Lone Pine. More about Lone Pine later.
3 comments:
Love the photos of 395! I used to drive that way as crew for a glider pilot friend. Lone Pine, Minden, Apple Valley, Victorville. Still looks the same. Beautiful country!
I've been driving 395 since '75. Not much changed along the way except for some new four lanes. Bishop has some great looking murals. I don't drive into Mammoth very often, but that would be the greatest change.
It is a beautiful drive. We rode motorcycles down through Monitor Pass last weekend. The weather is soooo beautiful. Today was a nice ride as well up through Red Rock Road. I love fall. Too much work, not enough time, but actually am getting more art done at work than I was at home:)
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