Top 10 Fall Photo Spots Near Bishop, CA
Hi friends! It’s that time of year again...sweater weather and pumpkin spice lattes have officially arrived, which means chasing the Fall foliage is top-of-mind for photographers, content creators, and Autumn leaf-peepers. This week we’re checking out one of the best places in all of California to capture the Fall colors. Join me today as we head into the Eastern Sierra to check out my top 10 Fall photo spots near Bishop, CA, as well as my travel & photography tips for each location.
Eastern Sierra Fall colors near Bishop, CA
Bishop Fall Colors
Many people refer to Bishop as having some of the best Fall colors in California. While the historic town of Bishop along Highway 395 certainly pops with Fall foliage every year, the dazzling aspen trees of the Eastern Sierra are actually found in Bishop’s “big backyard” up in the nearby mountains of Inyo National Forest. Bishop makes for a great home base for Fall leaf-peepers, but visitors should be aware that the iconic images of alpine lakes and rippling creeks flanked by the golden hues of the season are mostly found about 30-45 minutes away. So grab a delicious bite to eat at Schatt’s Bakery, and join me as we head up the mountain to enjoy each of these marvelous photo spots.
North Lake in early Fall in the High Sierra
North Lake Fall colors popping in the High Sierra
North Lake in late Fall in the High Sierra
1. North Lake
Tucked away just 20 miles southwest of Bishop, North Lake is an oasis of towering mountain peaks, golden Aspen groves, and fragrant pine forests. It’s a photographer’s dream, with crisp reflections on the lake's surface and vivid autumn colors cascading down the hillsides. Take a short hike around the lake’s edge, and you’ll be surrounded by a dazzling display of yellows and golds. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil spot for photos or a base for exploring the John Muir Wilderness, North Lake offers endless inspiration—and it’s a beloved fishing spot too!
Photo Tip: Arrive very early in the AM. Not only is the pre-dawn lighting soft and perfect for capturing reflections on the water before midday breezes disturb the glassy lake, but you’ll want to nab a spot before the hoards of photographers arrive here for the peak Fall colors. You’ll want to bring a tripod for longer exposures during the pre-dawn hours. If you’re looking to capture the iconic North Lake photo, you’ll be shooting along the eastern shoreline looking west. The sun will be rising behind you, so ideally you’ll want to get your “shot” before the sunlight hits the mountain peaks on the other side of the lake.
Lake Sabrina seen from the dam in early Fall
Lake Sabrina Fall colors in the Eastern Sierra
On the Island/Peninsula at Lake Sabrina during Fall
2. Lake Sabrina
Perched high above sea level at 9,130 feet, Lake Sabrina near Aspendell is a man-made gem framed by the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada. With hiking trails leading to cascading rapids and breathtaking high sierra views, this area is a treasure trove for nature lovers and photographers alike. The best part? Autumn transforms this landscape into a kaleidoscope of hues with warm the Fall hues blanketing the glacial valley slopes above the cool turquoise waters. And for those adventurers out there, it’s a prime spot for wilderness permits into the John Muir Wilderness.
Photo Tip: The sun rises late and sets early here due to the high peaks on all sides. There’s a small island/peninsula, and depending on water levels, it’s a great spot to venture out on to avoid the crowds for some unique pics. If you’re short on time, take the short stroll out onto the dam for a panoramic shot of the whole valley. A wide-angle lens will help you get the whole scene in one photo.
Middle Fork Bishop Creek Fall colors in Sabrina Basin
Rapids along Middle Fork Bishop Creek during late Fall
3. Middle Fork Bishop Creek
In the heart of the Sabrina Basin, Middle Fork Bishop Creek delivers a photographer’s dream. From golden foliage to sparkling waters, the scene practically begs to be captured. Located along CA-168/Lake Sabrina Road in between the North Lake Road and Lake Sabrina, and you’ll find yourself weaving through picturesque scenes with bubbling rapids, cascading waterfalls, and crystal clear shallow waters framed by Fall foliage.
Photo Tip: Bring a tripod for long-exposure shots of the moving water to create that dreamy, silky effect in the creek and waterfalls, along with an ND filter if you’re shooting midday.
Aspendell, Cardinal Village & High Sierra in early Fall
Fall colors around Cardinal Village in Aspendell, CA
4. Aspendell & Cardinal Village
The small town of Aspendell, nestled along the upper stretch of Bishop Creek, becomes a magical realm during the Fall months. A golden canopy of aspen trees lights up the landscape with a fiery display of yellows and oranges. For those wanting to linger longer, Cardinal Village Resort provides cozy cabins and the charm of a general store & cafe. It’s the perfect base for leaf-peeping and photography, offering a charming escape right in the heart of the Inyo National Forest.
Photo Tip: There’s a great vantage point from above along CA-168. It provides incredible views of the Cardinal Village and Sabrina Basin valley filled with aspen trees and the towering jagged peaks of the High Sierra.
Fall foliage along Intake Two in Eastern Sierra
Eastern Sierra Fall colors at Intake Two
Eastern Sierra Fall colors at Bishop Creek along Intake Two Loop
5. Intake Two
Just a mile down the road from Aspendell, Intake Two is a serene little lake with a mile-long hiking loop around its shore. It’s a popular spot for boaters and trout fishers, but during the Fall, it’s the color that steals the show. The trail around the lake is perfect for a leisurely stroll, camera in hand, as the vibrant reflections of changing leaves shimmer on the water’s surface. For an easy and peaceful photo adventure, Intake Two won’t disappoint.
Photo Tip: Aim for golden hour just after sunrise to capture mirror-like reflections of the Fall foliage on the water. This lake is fairly exposed to the elements, so visits later in the day will often bring choppy waters with the breeze. However, winds aren’t so bad when it comes to aspen trees...the golden leaves flicker beautifully in the breeze, especially when capturing video. This is especially captivating when the leaves are backlit by the sun.
Fall foliage along South Form Bishop Creek
Eastern Sierra Fall colors along South Fork Bishop Creek
6. South Fork Bishop Creek
As you cruise down South Lake Road, the South Fork Bishop Creek offers numerous spots to pull over and soak in the Autumn beauty. Whether you’re exploring on foot or from the comfort of your car, this stretch of the creek offers up some of the most stunning Fall scenes in the area. For the ambitious, the Tyee Lakes trailhead leads to an unforgettable hike with sweeping views. With 2,100 feet of elevation gain, it's a challenge, but the reward is breathtaking!
Photo Tip: There’s a spot (here) from a bridge along South Lake Road that provides a stunning view up-creek with quaking aspen trees lining either side. In the afternoon (before the sun sets behind the tall mountain peaks), the Fall foliage glows as the leaves are backlit by the sunlight.
Quaking aspen trees around Mist Falls in the Eastern Sierra
Eastern Sierra Fall colors around Mist Falls
7. Mist Falls
Easily seen from South Lake Road, Mist Falls (sometimes referred to as Misty Falls) bursts into life every Fall with a vivid mix of oranges, reds, and yellows from the aspen forest that surrounds it along the rocky hillside and in the creek valley below. The waterfall itself adds a dramatic touch to the landscape, with the sound of rushing water blending into the backdrop of nature’s autumnal symphony.
Photo Tip: For a soft water effect, try using an ND filter with a slow shutter speed on a tripod. Since the waterfall and adjacent land is private property, you’ll have to enjoy the waterfall from a distance. Wide angles are great to also get the valley filled with a see of Fall colors in frame, but a zoom lens will allow you to get some tighter in shots of Mist Falls.
South Lake in the California’s High Sierra
High Sierra Fall foliage at South Lake
8. South Lake
At 9,700 feet, South Lake is a showstopper, especially during the Fall when the trees along its shore turn brilliant shades of yellow and gold. Whether you’re out on a rented boat, paddling along the lake’s serene waters, or exploring one of the many surrounding hiking trails, every angle offers a postcard-worthy shot. This high-altitude lake is also a great spot to soak in the crisp mountain air and the stunning reflections that make Fall photography here so unique.
Photo Tip: As is the case with much of the High Sierra, afternoon breezes can produce choppy waters, reducing you chances of reflections. The shallow waters near the boat launch increase your chances of calm waters, which is also where you’ll find a patch of aspen trees along the shoreline.
Old barn and Fall colors in Round Valley near Bishop, CA
Horses grazing in Round Valley during Fall
9. Round Valley
Step back in time as you take a scenic drive through Round Valley, a pastoral landscape filled with ranches, grazing cattle, and golden Fall hues. With the massive Eastern Sierra peaks as a backdrop, this quiet ranching community feels like the “Old West” preserved in time. The Autumn colors only add to the charm, with rustic barns framed by cottonwoods and towering oak glowing in yellow and gold.
Photo Tip: Late afternoon light is perfect for photographing the barns and grazing animals with soft, even light. A wide aperture (f/4 or lower) will give you a beautiful shallow depth of field, making your subject pop.
Eastern Sierra Fall colors in Pine Creek Canyon
Fall foliage along Gable Creek near Bishop, CA
10. Pine Creek Canyon
Beyond the charming Round Valley lies Pine Creek Canyon, a rugged and dramatic landscape that beckons adventurers and photographers alike. The trails here lead you deep into the Sierra, with towering granite mountains forming the perfect backdrop for Fall foliage. As you drive up Pine Creek Road, stop at Gable Creek near the end of the road to capture the heart of Autumn, where the vibrant leaves and flowing creek create a scene straight out of a painting.
Photo Tip: Sunset provides a magical golden glow that makes the cool granite cliffs stand out against the vibrant Autumn colors. Use HDR mode to balance out the bright sky with the darker landscape below.
Pine Creek Road heading into Pine Creek Canyon during Autumn
Eastern Sierra Fall colors along Middle Fork Bishop Creek
Know Before You Go
• Please remember to follow the Leave No Trace Principles to keep these places beautiful for all to enjoy when you plan your own visit.
• Depending on elevation, weather and wind conditions, you can expect to see the Fall colors changing at different times and rates in neighboring areas.
• Make sure to practice wilderness ethics...familiarize yourself with all wilderness-use restrictions before your visit.
• Wildlife is abundant in the above-mentioned areas (including black bears). Always store food properly and be bear aware on your adventures here.
Fall colors along Bishop Creek near Intake Two
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining me this week near Bishop, CA. For a virtual visit of these top 10 Fall photo spots in the Eastern Sierra, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video located at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Old bridge over Middle Fork Bishop Creek in the Eastern Sierra
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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