fossil falls

174glenny

This place is south of Bishop off US 395. Very easy to miss. Look for road marker. Rough road to get there. SUV preferred but any rental car will do. Parking, restroom and picnic tables at the end. Short hike to actual falls. Kids can do. Amazing to see what can mother nature to do with the lava over the time. Rocks are polished and holes perfectly round. Winter time getting dark very so start early or bring a flashlight

TanyaRussell_13

This is a beautiful site to see and even has a few campsites to stay overnight. Just beware that if you opt for the "4" mile drive to the little lake overlook that the road is HORRIBLE! Unpaved, rutted, full of rocks and other obatacles. If you have a car thats low to the ground and not 4WD-don't risk it. My car IS 4WD and we still had to drive so slowly that it took over an hour to get to the overlook.If you really have to go-cut thru the dry lake bed-it is hard enough to support your vehicle, it will save you at least 1/2 hr and you will leave with most of your teeth still in your head!

Vecchio7

Even though it was hot, I am glad we took the short hike to the Fossil Falls rocks. They were so beautiful. It was so fun climbing through them and seeing this geological wonder. I can not believe I have never visited before. It does take some climbing if you really want to see the rocks. Make sure you are wearing good shoes and are in good physical condition.

QuiQui12

Another world on earth. Easy access. All rocks and barrows are black so don't go in Summer as it is extremely hot.

Prassina

This is an eerily beautiful place. Everywhere you look, there are different kinds of volcanic rocks of different colors from coarse to fine, boulders and rounded rocks, and in shades of grey, red, brown and black. It's truly beautiful. Make sure you have good shoes such as sturdy sneakers. I would also bring plenty of water and a little food just in case you get stuck there for some reason. Although the 395 is close by, the desolate feel of the area might make one feel a bit panicky (maybe that's just me). Although I would not make a special trip to Fossil Falls, if you are nearby, it's definitely worth a visit.

GovTrvlr

We stopped at Fossil Falls while on the road to points further north. It's one of those places that looks like a set from a science fiction/fantasy movie. Some notes: --Plan ahead with tiny kids. You will be carrying the 2 1/2 year old out. --Potty first before you head out from the parking lot.--Wear shoes with some grip on the bottom. Closed toe would be best.--Bad knees, fat? Consider a walking stick of some kind.--Don't collect artifacts. They belong to the government. The obsidian flake loses all scientific value when it is sitting on your dresser at home.

marros1960

Took some friends to visit the Falls - we all thought that it was a great place to visit. Not sure how someone pushing a stroller/wheelchair would be able to navigate the path.

920ethans

I was in Ridgecrest and had a few hours to spare... decided to visit. Good to read the history and background before visiting the falls. Interesting formations & chips, but I didn't see any fossils. Careful climbing the formation - dangerous to get to the bottom - I stopped for safety and I have >20 years climbing experience. Rough terrain to dry falls formation... ok for kids >4 or so with some assistance... smaller will need carried much of the way.

Shimadog

High ratings for this? Why not? It's ancient, unique, intriguing, and fun to photograph! And any rock formation from a glacial run-off is worth taking a look.As we made the turn off Hwy 395, there were no cars to be found. But as we neared the parking lot, we were amazed to see it full....now what does that tell you about this place?Good footwear helps on the uneven and slightly rocky path and it can't hurt to bring along water for the short .2 mile trek to the falls. View is down the deep crevasses of the fossil rocks where there are no railings, so careful near edge!Some may see it as just rocks, but a closer look at the twisted formations and you'll wish you paid more attention in Geology 101. It's free and natural so go check it out!

thezone999

The only reason I didn't give it a five star is because it can't compare with the Grand Canyon or Yosemite. But if you have never been or just pass by saying maybe next time. Trust me stop and check it out. Besides you needed a rest stop anyway, right?

bobsacerdo

It takes some dirt driving and hiking, but the petroglyphs are amazing, as is the topography. Volcanic formations, rock art, and yes an occasional fossil.

jwest0554

What's fossil are the falls - this is the Owens River bed; the water carved holes and dropoffs in the 80 ft. basalt cliff. Not wise to try to go down - it's very difficult to get back up!! Major indian camp, lots of obsidian flakes.

Mikey88

An interesting stop on the way to or from Lone Pine. This is a dried up canyon and you get to walk right from the start and can descend a fair way if you are fit and flexible. I'd make sure you are with someone as you could fall so be careful but climbing down gives a view of some great rock formations.