Car Rental at Eastern Sierra Regional Airport (BIH)

Eastern Sierra Regional Airport (BIH) in Bishop is your gateway to the Sierra Nevada wilderness, and with just one rental company on-site, it's smart to book your car well in advance. The airport serves Bishop, CA, and is your starting point for trips to some of California's most remote natural areas. From here, it's about 60 km north to Mammoth Lakes and 85 km south to Lone Pine.

Bishop sits in Owens Valley, sandwiched between the Sierra Nevada to the west and the White Mountains to the east. Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, home to the world's oldest trees, is located about 45 km northeast of the airport via Highway 168. Death Valley National Park's northern entrance is reached in about 120 km south via Highway 395.

Book your rental car well in advance – with only one rental company, availability is limited, especially during ski season from November to April. An SUV or AWD vehicle is strongly recommended in winter, as mountain roads like Tioga Road and routes up to Mammoth may require four-wheel drive or snow chains. Always fuel up in Bishop before heading out into the wilderness – gas stations are sparse along Highway 395.

How far is it from Bishop Airport to Mammoth Mountain? It's about 60 km north along Highway 395, which takes roughly 45 minutes under normal conditions, longer in snow and winter conditions. Do I need a special vehicle to drive in Eastern Sierra?

In summer, a standard car handles most roads, but in winter an SUV with AWD or 4WD is strongly recommended, and snow chains should always be carried. Can I return the rental car in another location, such as Las Vegas? One-way rental may be possible but is unusual with just one rental company at BIH.

Contact the rental company directly to check options and any additional fees.

We compare prices from all major providers at Eastern Sierra Regional Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.