Eastern Sierra Brewery Guide
6 Independent Breweries Along US 395 in California
From the High Mojave Desert on up along the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, US 395 cuts a path through some of the most stunning landscapes in North America. Joshua Trees give way to Bristlecone Pines. Snowcapped and rain shadowed mountains contrast each other from across the vast valleys that sit thousands of feet below their peaks. Additionally, it is filled with twisting canyons and sloping foothills, all combining to provide unparalleled outdoor adventure opportunities. Less notably, perhaps, is the craft beer scene along US 395. There are six breweries spanning the long, sometimes lonesome, roadway between the junction of I-15/US 395 and June Lake, CA some 275 miles north of it. Here is a guide for tapping into that creative energy, but not while drinking and driving, of course.
Oak Hills Brewing Company: Exiting I-15 onto US 395, we quickly saw the big billboard for Oak Hills Brewing Company. Passing through a few stoplights, we turned right and made our way back into what feels like an industrial warehouse park. We walked in the front door and were immediately greeted by a very welcoming bar staff. It was trivia night. Locals, presumably, were enjoying beer and complimentary pretzels to nibble on while searching the folds of their brains for answers. I ordered a Cajon Haze, a New England Style IPA. After driving up from San Diego, it surely hit the spot, citrus on the palate. Note: they do not serve food.
https://www.oakhillsbrewing.com/
Indian Wells Brewing Company: Two miles south of the US 395/Highway 14 junction, Indian Wells Brewing Company, located on Highway 14, has brewed beer since 1995. In the early 2000s, I spent a year living in nearby Ridgecrest. During that time, I became familiar with the local craft brewery. Using pure artesian spring water, and with a nod toward European beer styles, it is a refreshing break from the sometimes overly hopped beer found in the Golden State. Lobotomy Bock and Mojave Gold, two classic styles of a German Doppel Bock bier and a Pilsner using European Saaz hops, respectively, are standards that do not disappoint. Note: the brewery is one in the same, more or less, with Indian Wells Lodge Restaurant, which is a steak and seafood kind of place.
Mountain Rambler Brewery: Set back a little from the sidewalk, but right on Main Street in downtown Bishop, Mountain Rambler Brewery is a wonderful little spot to grab a bite and a beer. From the deck-like porch outside, there is an excellent view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains rising up behind the storefronts in the foreground. The last time I was there, I had a half-pour each of their Foxtail Rye XPA and Saddleback IPA. I nearly always order rye pale ale when I see one on the menu. I like that peppery bite. Note: in addition to having food, Mountain Rambler has entertainment.
https://www.mountainramblerbrewery.com/
Distant Brewing: What was Black Doubt Brewing Company in Mammoth Lakes grew up and is now Distant Brewing, meaning it morphed into a bigger space down the street and took on a new name. On a trip las winter, I happened to be in town when the new version still had its grand opening sign hanging out front. The tasting room was abuzz with downhill skiers seeking après drinks and mountain bikers quenching their thirsts after a spell of month-long-warm-weather made for dry trail conditions. I sampled a few of their IPAs, being they had a San Diego craft beer connection, and was quite pleased with their renditions. Distant might be a new kid on the block, of sorts, but they have what it takes to be a stalwart for years to come. Note: they have live music and food.
Mammoth Brewing Company: No doubt, MBC is the Eastern Sierra brewery. Period. Since 1995, they have proven, with numerous awards, that they brew outstanding beer. No matter the season, sitting outside at the picnic tables with that beautiful view of the mountains, sharing space and time with friends over beers and delicious food, well, there are moments when words do not convey the feeling. A Baltic Porter was on the recent seasonal brew board. Served in a tulip glass, I took a sip and seconds later, I had a warm smile on my face.
June Lake Brewing: On a back street in town, June Lake Brewing simply has one of the best vibes of any brew pub/tasting room around, if you like to relax and have a beer in an environment that is super laid back and that offers no pretense. The beer is always on point and the food served in the parking lot from the truck is arguably some of the best served anywhere, hands down. Whether you are skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, fishing, mountain biking or wandering and snapping photos of the surrounding natural beauty, JLB is a place to push the pause button when you are finished with your preferred outdoor activity.
https://www.junelakebrewing.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ohanas395/ and https://www.ohanas395.com/
There you have it, six craft breweries offering up cheer and beer as you drive up and down US 395. No designated driver? Bring your growler(s) and fill them for when you get to your hotel, cabin, or campsite. Pick up a six pack or 22 oz. bottle from the brewery coolers. Desert to mountains, grab a cold locally brewed beer after taking time to play and/or enjoy the wonders of nature that exist from the High Mojave to the Eastern Sierra, perhaps while sitting back and watching the sun set and paint the sky.
Note: Check with the breweries regarding COVID-19 and beer/food availability.