Explore the Eastern Sierra Nevada with Conservation Lands Foundation

Discover and learn to capture the rugged beauty and rich cultural history of California’s Eastern Sierra, while learning how we can protect these extraordinary public lands for generations to come. From the towering summit of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the continental U.S., to the eastern gateway of Yosemite National Park, this region is truly a photographer’s paradise. 


This trip blends outdoor exploration with exquisite fall color photography and conservation storytelling, guided in part by writer and photographer Josh Jackson,  a passionate champion for public lands and a CLF Leadership Circle member. Last year, Josh released The Enduring Wild, a book filled with powerful stories and striking images from some of California’s most vulnerable and overlooked public lands.


No prior photography experience is needed, just a curiosity to learn and a desire to see the world through a new lens.


Space is limited, so reserve your spot below today! While our calendar is typically filled with private, custom-curated journeys, we host one flagship trip each year open to individual explorers. This is that journey—a rare opportunity to join our lead experts and a small community of fellow adventurers in the field.


Questions? If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Rachel Frederico, Development Associate: rachel@conservationlands.org.

In addition to learning from Josh, you’ll enjoy a full itinerary led by CLF staff and local partners. Highlights include:


  • A visit to Bodie Hills—lands of the Northern Paiute, with critical wildlife habitat, and the iconic ghost town of Bodie State Park—the largest unrestored ghost town in the U.S.
  • Conversations with local conservationists and Tribal partners, including the Bridgeport Indian Colony and Friends of the Inyo, about stewardship, cultural heritage, and public land protections.
  • A scenic journey through the Volcanic Tablelands and Granite Mountain Wilderness Study Areas, and a hike among petroglyphs and dramatic rock formations.
  • Exploration of the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area, famous for its otherworldly geology and cinematic history, plus an optional sunrise photography session among the arches.
  • Hiking at Conglomerate Mesa; a striking landscape of Joshua Trees and sweeping desert vistas.
  • Birdwatchers will also delight in spotting a variety of species, with insights shared by local CLF staff member and ornithologist, Jora Fogg.


This trip is a unique opportunity, during the best time of year for exceptional autumn colors, to connect with fellow supporters, deepen your understanding of conservation in action, and come away inspired, with a few new photography skills to boot.

Dates: October 7-11 

  • Wednesday, Oct 7: The Gateway - Arrive in Lone Pine for a golden hour hike through the iconic Mobius Arch in the Alabama Hills. Connect with the group over a welcome dinner in the shadow of Mt. Whitney.
  • Thursday, Oct 8: Into the Wild (Conglomerate Mesa) - Explore the high-altitude wonders of Conglomerate Mesa. This immersive field day includes a 3-mile hike (7,600 ft elevation) through ancient Joshua Tree forests with expert-led birdwatching with Jora.
  • Friday, Oct 9: Through the Lens (Photography Begins) - Professional photographer Josh Jackson joins the group! Start with a sunrise shoot in the Alabama Hills before heading north. Discover the Volcanic Tablelands while learning about the deep roots of the Bishop-Paiute Tribe.
  • Saturday, Oct 10: Ghost Towns & Living History - A full day in the Bodie Hills and the historic State Park. We’ll be joined by the Bridgeport Indian Colony and Friends of the Inyo to discuss Tribal perspectives and the vital conservation of these ancestral lands.
  • Sunday, Oct 11: The Grand Finale - A final photography workshop at the scenic Conway Summit. Enjoy a farewell breakfast before departing at noon (Reno airport is just 2 hours north).

The Details


Getting there and back: To make the most of our route, we recommend flying into Bakersfield (BFL), which is approximately a 2.5-hour drive north to our starting point in Lone Pine. Alternatively, the Los Angeles/Ontario area offers more flight options but a longer commute (flying into Ontario is often much faster and less stressful than LAX). For your return, Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is the most convenient exit point, located just 2 hours north of Bridgeport.


Transportation Note: Because our journey begins in Lone Pine and concludes in Bridgeport, a rental car or personal vehicle is essential. If renting, we suggest booking a one-way rental (there may be an additional drop-off fee). While we may encounter some rougher terrain, a 4WD vehicle is not required, as we can carpool for those specific stretches. There could be opportunities to carpool, so do not let that prevent you from signing up.


Space is limited, so reserve your spot below today! If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Rachel Frederico, Development Associate: rachel@conservationlands.org.


Deposit: A $500-deposit is required to secure your spot. Deposits are non-refundable, because of the preparation needed for these trips. Reservations are managed on a first-come, first-served basis.


Cost: The total cost is $1,500 per person, which covers four nights of lodging; activities and outfitter costs; speaker fees and permits, most meals and non-alcoholic beverages; snacks; and gratuities.


Excluded: Airfare and transportation, alcoholic beverages at meals, an extra guide tip if you're happy with their service.


Full payments will be due on September 1, 2026. Full payments are refundable (minus deposits) if canceled 60 days before the trip departure. Cancellations after that cannot be refunded. You are also welcome to transfer the trip to a friend or a family member, as long as you inform us within two weeks of the trip launch.


CLF does not make any profit on these trips. We hope that you will be inspired to make a donation to support our work to protect the National Conservation Lands for future generations.


Travel cancellation insurance is affordable and can cover all trip costs, including payments and airfare, if you were to need to change plans or cancel. Our partners have found Travelex and Allianz to be high quality and competitively priced. Please note: Many plans must be purchased within a specific time from booking your trip or before final payment.


Conservation Lands Foundation reserves the right to cancel the trip due to weather, accommodations, low participation, or other extenuating circumstances. In such a case, we will reimburse all trip payments made to CLF.