Updated: 5/16/24
We had a crazy idea, let’s road trip down Highway 395 in our self-converted van (watch the video tour of our dodge promaster 2500) with kayaks and explore as many bodies of water as possible. We only had a week, so how much could we cram into a single outing? We were not sure, but we wanted to try. So, would five bodies of water be too many, ten? Now, I’ll admit neither of us are good at kayaking, heck we can barely get in the kayaks without flipping, but that doesn’t matter. What matters is that we committed to the idea and have loads of fun along the way.
Did we succeed? Kind of.
Pros
Freedom and Flexibility: Vanlife allows you to have complete freedom and flexibility in your travel plans. You can go wherever you want, whenever you want, and change your itinerary on a whim.
Close to Nature: You'll be able to immerse yourself in nature, as you can often camp in beautiful and remote locations right next to the water, where you'll be kayaking.
Cost-Effective: Living in a van can be more cost-effective than staying in hotels or renting accommodations, especially if you're traveling for an extended period.
Adventure: The sense of adventure and exploration is a major draw. You'll have the opportunity to discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path kayaking spots.
Self-Sufficiency: You'll develop self-sufficiency skills, such as cooking and basic vehicle maintenance, which can be empowering.
Cons
Limited Space: Living in a van means limited space for personal belongings and activities, which can be challenging, especially on longer trips. Read this article to perfect your vanlife organization.
Comfort and Amenities: You'll likely have fewer amenities and comforts compared to a traditional home, such as a proper bathroom, kitchen, or a comfortable bed.
Isolation: Depending on your personality, you might experience periods of isolation or loneliness, especially when you're in remote areas without easy access to social interaction.
Hygiene and Cleanliness: Maintaining personal hygiene and cleanliness can be more challenging in a van, especially if you don't have access to showers or laundry facilities. Read this article to learn how to maintain your hygiene on the road in a van.
Essential Kayaking Gear for Our Eastern Sierra Road Trip:
To ensure our kayaking adventures along the scenic Eastern Sierra Highway were both safe and enjoyable, we made sure to bring along a carefully curated selection of kayaking gear. This gear not only enabled us to explore the stunning bodies of water in the region but also provided us with the necessary tools to embrace the great outdoors. Here's a list of the kayaking gear we packed for our journey:
Oru Lake Kayak: The heart of our adventure, our trusty Oru Lake kayaks, was the vessel that carried us across the pristine waters of the Eastern Sierra's lakes and rivers. We picked these kayak because they fold up and can be stored easily under the bed in the back of the van.
PFD (Personal Flotation Device) - aka Life Jacket: Safety was a top priority on our road trip. Each of us had a PFD, ensuring that we were well-prepared for any unexpected situations on the water.
Paddle: A reliable paddle was an essential tool for navigating the waterways and propelling our kayaks forward with precision.
Clothes That Can Get Wet: We packed clothing items specifically chosen for their quick-drying and moisture-wicking properties. These clothes kept us comfortable and protected during our kayaking excursions, even when we got splashed or encountered a light drizzle.
Bottom: Surenow running shorts
Wind and Rain Jacket: Marmot jacket (a great all around shell)
Sunscreen: The Eastern Sierra region is known for its abundant sunshine, so sunscreen was a must. We applied it generously to shield ourselves from the high-altitude sun while paddling.
Sandals: Comfortable and water-resistant sandals allowed us to easily transition from land to water without the worry of getting our shoes wet or slipping on rocky shores. My go-to sandals are the Merrell Hydro Moc or the plastic Birkenstock sandals.
With these essential kayaking items in tow, we embarked on our Eastern Sierra road trip fully prepared to make the most of every moment on the water, surrounded by the region's breathtaking natural beauty.
Eastern Sierra Bodies of Water Kayaked:
During our kayaking road trip through the Eastern Sierra Highway, we had the incredible opportunity to paddle on a variety of picturesque bodies of water. Each location offered its own unique charm and breathtaking scenery. Here is a list of the Eastern Sierra bodies of water we explored by kayak:
Emerald Bay: Nestled on the stunning Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, granite cliffs, and the iconic Fannette Island. Kayaking here allowed us to soak in the unparalleled beauty of this natural wonder.
Zephyr Cove: Located on the southeastern shore of Lake Tahoe, Zephyr Cove is a tranquil and inviting spot for kayakers. We navigated through its serene waters, taking in the peaceful ambiance and enjoying the panoramic views.
Twin Lakes: Tucked away in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Twin Lakes offers a serene alpine setting. Our kayaking adventure here provided us with a chance to connect with nature and savor the pristine mountain environment. Watch our recap video of kayaking at Twin Lakes
Mammoth Lakes: The Mammoth Lakes basin is a hidden gem in the Sierras, boasting a chain of clear mountain lakes surrounded by rugged terrain. Kayaking on these high-altitude lakes offered a sense of serenity and awe-inspiring vistas, click to read the “Kayaking Mammoth Lakes Guide” article.
Owen's River: As we followed the Owen's River, we embarked on a different kind of kayaking experience. This meandering river provided us with opportunities to observe wildlife and experience a more tranquil, riverine setting, especially at sunset. Watch this sunset kayaking video from the Owen’s River.
Convict Lake: Tucked beneath towering peaks, Convict Lake is a picturesque glacial lake. Our kayaking journey here allowed us to paddle amidst dramatic mountain scenery and take in the tranquility of this hidden gem. Watch this video on kayaking Convict Lake during sunrise
Choosing the Best Time of Day to Kayak in the Eastern Sierra
When it comes to planning your flatwater kayaking adventures in the Eastern Sierra, selecting the right time of day can significantly enhance your experience. While there are various options to consider, the two prime times to paddle in this breathtaking region are during sunrise and sunset. Here's why:
Sunrise Paddling:
Paddling at sunrise is a magical experience that offers a host of unique advantages:
Solitude and Serenity: Rising early to paddle as the sun breaks over the horizon provides you with an unmatched sense of solitude. Most kayakers tend to start later in the day, meaning you'll likely have the entire body of water to yourself. This solitude allows you to connect with nature in a profound and peaceful way. Check out this short sunrise kayaking video from Lake Tahoe
Front-Row Seat to Nature's Show: Watching the Eastern Sierra landscape awaken as the first rays of light touch the water's surface is a mesmerizing spectacle. It's a time when the world comes alive with the songs of birds and the tranquility of the wilderness.
Cozy Comfort: To make the most of your sunrise paddle, consider bringing a warm beverage like coffee or tea and a good book. Settle into the middle of the lake, savor your drink, and immerse yourself in the serenity of the surroundings.
Sunset Paddling:
Paddling at sunset is equally enchanting and offers its own set of captivating experiences:
Cooling Temperatures: As the day winds down, the temperatures cool, making for a more comfortable and refreshing kayaking experience.
Wildlife Encounters: Sunset is a prime time for wildlife activity. You might witness fish leaping from the water or observe various creatures visiting the shores, adding an extra layer of excitement to your paddle.
Shared Moments: To enhance your sunset paddle, consider inviting a group of friends. Sharing this beautiful time of day with others, all floating in the middle of the lake, can create lasting memories and a sense of camaraderie.
In the Eastern Sierra, whether you choose the tranquil solitude of a sunrise paddle or the vibrant beauty of a sunset excursion, you're bound to create unforgettable moments and forge a deeper connection with the stunning natural landscapes that define this remarkable region. So, set your alarm early or gather your friends, and prepare for an awe-inspiring kayaking adventure in the Eastern Sierra.
As we reflect on our ambitious road trip down Highway 395, armed with kayaks and an unyielding spirit of adventure, we can't help but smile at the memories we've created. Our initial questions about how many bodies of water we could explore in just a week were met with uncertainty, but one thing was for certain: we were determined to try.
While neither of us could claim to be expert kayakers – in fact, our kayaking skills often left us teetering on the brink of a watery mishap – it was the journey and the sheer joy of exploration that mattered most. We were not striving for perfection but instead, embracing the idea of embracing the unknown.
Did we successfully kayak every body of water we set our sights on? Well, the answer is a bit nuanced. We may not have conquered every lake or river as gracefully as we'd hoped, and we may have encountered a few unexpected challenges along the way, but what truly mattered was the indomitable spirit that drove us to try.
The Eastern Sierra revealed its incredible beauty at every turn, each body of water offering a unique glimpse into the natural wonders of this region. Whether it was the tranquil stillness of a high-mountain lake at sunrise or the breathtaking hues of a sunset paddle, every moment was a testament to the awe-inspiring landscapes we were fortunate to experience.
In the end, our kayaking road trip was about more than just ticking items off a checklist; it was about embracing the unknown, celebrating the joy of exploration, and creating cherished memories. It was about the camaraderie forged through shared challenges and the sense of wonder that comes from immersing ourselves in the wild beauty of the Eastern Sierra.
So, did we succeed? Well, we did in ways that exceeded our expectations. We may not have paddled every body of water, but we paddled into the heart of adventure, and that's a journey we'll cherish forever. Our Eastern Sierra kayaking road trip wasn't just about reaching the destination; it was about embracing the exhilarating ride along the way. And in that, we found our true success.
