Insider’s Guide to Inyo County

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the endless allure of Inyo County and the Eastern Sierra with four in-the-know locals. 

First up, Johnson talks with Brent Underwood, owner of Cerro Gordo, a former Gold Rush–era boomtown and mining operation nestled in the Inyo Mountains. Underwood starts off by sharing the thrills and daily struggles of living in a ghost town. “It's a lot of learning on the fly,” he says. “It's a lot of stressful days and logistical challenges, but I love it. It's probably the most interesting and fulfilling thing that I've ever done.” The entrepreneur dives into the town’s history, his plans for reviving the property, and how visitors can explore Cerro Gordo for themselves.

Next, Johnson is joined by Bob Sigman, executive director of the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine. Sigman shares his insights into the rich Hollywood heritage of the Eastern Sierra region and what made Lone Pine in particular a filming hot spot for Western films. As Sigman explains, “The sun going from east to west over Owens Valley provided just a unique opportunity for filmmakers, not only to have the landscape, but to have variable light, whether they were shooting northeast, south, or west.” He also discusses the Lone Pine Film Festival’s evolution, popular exhibits, and how to experience the cinematic landscape of Inyo County in person.

Lastly, Johnson talks to Brittany and Dave Holman, the husband-and-wife team behind Owens Valley Distilling Company in Bishop. The two share how the area’s magnificent rock climbing initially drew them to the area 17 years ago. “Bishop is literally a climbing mecca now,” Dave says. “I mean, you talk to any rock climber around the world, they will know Bishop, California.” The Holmans discuss the distillery’s origins, including the secret to their locally made spirits. The avid outdoor enthusiasts also give tips for enjoying Bishop’s epic surroundings. “If you love the outdoors, regardless of what your fitness level is—if you're just a car tourist trying to see some beautiful things or you're a hardcore athlete—there's just so much to do in this town,” Dave boasts. “It's incredible.”

GUESTS

Brent Underwood, owner of Cerro Gordo

Bob Sigman, executive director of the Museum of Western Film History

Brittany and Dave Holman, owners of Owens Valley Distilling Co.  

RESOURCES

Brent Underwood is an entrepreneur, author, and owner of Cerro Gordo, a former Gold Rush boomtown that is now a ghost town in the Inyo Mountains.

Cerro Gordo

Inyo County

Inyo Mountain Range

Alabama Hills

Death Valley National Park

Los Angeles

Ghost Town Living

Owens Lake

Mount Whitney

Manzanar

Merry Go Round

Dow Villa Motel

Jake's Saloon

Pacific Crest Trail

Bob Sigman has spent 30 years preserving the history of Western films and currently serves as the executive director of the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine.

Museum of Western Film History

Eastern Sierra

Lone Pine

Lone Pine Film Festival

Lone Ranger Canyon

Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest 

Whitney Portal Store

Seasons Restaurant

Alabama Hills Cafe

Brittany and Dave Holman are the husband-and-wife team behind the award-winning Owens Valley Distilling Co. in Bishop.

Owens Valley Distilling Co.

Bishop

Mountain Rambler Brewery

Uncle Shyam’s

Cloudripper

Piñon Pizza

Bishop International Airport

Sabrina Lake Trail

Long Lake

Badwater Basin

Creekside Inn

Erick Schat's Bakkery

ABOUT THE HOST

Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on New York radio station WNYC, has been the host of the California Now Podcast since its inception in 2018.

OUR TEAM

Host, Soterios Johnson
Editorial Director, John Godfrey
Producer, Kate Eplboim
Technical Producer, Jessica Marshall
Theme music, Aaron Taos