Milky Way Photography Spots in Eastern Sierra

There are so many different places where you can shoot the Milky Way in Eastern Sierra thanks to being away from light pollution. There are a plenty of opportunities so you just need to find them. Here are the places that I like to shoot at that doesn't require long hikes. I excluded Alabama Hills because it's a popular destination and everyone knows about it. But if you have not been there, it is a great place to shoot night sky photos. This list is nowhere close to a complete list. These are my favorite places based on the composition I like and convenience. Just explore and find your spots as there are so many places out there that makes you want to not leave! Plan accordingly if you're hiking in or backpacking. Safety first!

1) Mammoth Lakes 
This is a popular resort town in Eastern Sierra for all seasons. I like shooting here because there are other things to do during the day. There are plenty of campsites available even though they get booked up quickly. There are enough shops and restaurants to keep you busy and full during the day time. My favorite spots to shoot Milky Way are Twin Lakes either from the vista parking or from the bridge between the lakes, and from Twin Falls overlook area looking towards Lake Mamie. These locations work well when the Milky Way is in a vertical orientation. Just watch out for a bear especially when you're shooting alone. I have seen a few. 

2) Twin Lakes 
Don't confuse this with Twin Lakes in Mammoth Lakes. This Twin Lakes are the ones located near Bridgeport. This place is usually calm and relaxing to me for some reason. I usually stay on the east side though. A great place to shoot Milky Way looking towards the snow-topped mountains from that side. 

3) Convict Lake 
This is another great spot to shoot Milky Way with the lake and mountains in the foreground. The Milky Way lines up perfectly between the peaks of the mountains when it's in a vertical orientation. Seeing starts reflecting in the water in front of you is an amazing sight to see. 

4) Hot Creek Brees Lookout 
Later in the Milky Way season, shooting from here creates an amazing composition with the hotspring, river running towards the mountains, and the Milky Way standing tall behind them. I've seen a sign at the gate saying this place is open from sunrise to sunset. But I've never seen the gate closed so I believe it's ok?! It's all dirt road from 395 so slow down when you're driving to get here. 

5) Lake Tahoe 
Lake Tahoe doesn't have the darkest skies but there are some cool spots to shoot. Shooting a pano of the Milky Way from Emerald Bay State Park is one of my favorite. And Secret Cove and Bonzai Rock create a great composition. You will need to hike a bit to get to those places. Just be careful when you're hiking down to Bonzai Rock at night. 

↑Back to Top