The County of Inyo is a political subdivision of the State of California. Its vision is to provide responsive decision making while supporting cultural and historical values, the natural environment and rural quality of life. Inyo County is a land of magnificent natural diversity. Mount Whitney is the highest peak in the lower 48 states. Death Valley is the lowest point in the U.S., and the Great Basin bristlecone pines are the oldest life forms in the world. Beyond this, experts agree that Inyo County has excellent trout fishing, hiking in the Sierra, and magnificent vistas. In addition Inyo County offers the best alpine climbing, spring backcountry skiing, hang gliding, horsepacking and mountain biking in the world! The County offers a full spectrum of adventure and involvement from the absolute stillness and peace of the desert, through the meadows blanketed with wildflowers, over the rushing mountain streams of the forest, to the wind whipped granite peaks. There is nowhere one can turn without seeing Natures striking beauty. One can experience this unforgettable grandeur from the comfort of one's car, on foot or on horseback. The granite peaks of the High Sierra have been sculpted by glaciers, wind and weather into some of Natures most glorious works of art. The John Muir Wilderness has remained virtually unchanged for thousands of years. Our county is dotted with historic towns providing professional services and the equipment one will need for ones excursions, whether it’s backpacking, fishing, horsepacking, skiing, climbing, biking, photography, or just sightseeing.