What to Know About Alabama Hills Movie Road in California

The Alabama Hills Movie Road is well-known and well-loved for a reason.

Maybe it’s the jagged, often snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains, or maybe the weird red rocks of the Alabama Hills scattered at its base? Spoiler alert: It’s both!

There are biking trails, free camping, rock climbing, and stargazing opportunities to boot.

Here’s what to know…

About Alabama Hills Movie Road

Movie Road is a gateway to the Alabama Hills. The towering Mount Whitney dominates the skyline here, surrounded by dramatic rock formations, tall arches, and alien landscapes.

The area got its name due to its use in countless Western films and even modern-day movies like Iron Man, Django Unchained, and Gladiator. Visitors often check out movie sites before heading to the Museum of Western Film History.

Although formed at the same time, the Alabama Hills’ rounded red rocks sharply contrast with the jagged peaks of the Sierra Nevada. This landscape was shaped by erosion over millions of years.

Location

The Alabama Hills Movie Road is a 3-4 hour drive from Los Angeles, just off Highway 395, near the town of Lone Pine. It’s easily accessible, whether you’re traveling from Yosemite or Death Valley.

Drive along Movie Flat Road, a narrow gravel road with dirt stretches. You can see most of the highlights from your car or with a short hike.

Here are the best spots, listed south to north…

Nightmare Rock

Nightmare Rock is a massive boulder painted with a creepy face, an unusual sight against the desert landscape.

Shark Fin Loop

Distance: 1.7 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 249 ft

This loop trail offers incredible views and bizarre rock formations, including a giant shark-fin-shaped rock.

Lone Ranger Canyon

Explore the maze-like clusters of boulders in Lone Ranger Canyon, a favorite filming location for Westerns.

Mobius Arch Loop Trail

Distance: 0.6 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 42 ft

Mobius Arch is the most famous arch in the area and perfectly frames Mount Whitney.

Heart Arch

Heart Arch may not be the biggest, but it’s cute and accessible, visible right from the Mobius Arch parking lot.

Eye of Alabama Hills Arch

This arch offers spectacular views of the Alabama Hills as you gaze through it.

Boot Arch

This unique rock formation somewhat resembles a cowboy boot if you use your imagination.

Cyclops Arch

Cyclops Arch is a double arch resembling a skull, adding to the area’s otherworldly feel.

Tips for Visiting Alabama Hills

• Pack enough water, food, and supplies; there are few services in the area.
• Download maps and research, as cell reception is minimal.
• Visit in spring or fall for ideal temperatures; summer can be unbearable, and winter nights are freezing.

Where to Stay in Alabama Hills

Camping in the Alabama Hills offers incredible views, whether at official campgrounds or dispersed camping areas.

• Tuttle Creek Campground – Basic amenities at a cheap price.
• Boulder Creek RV Resort – A campground in Lone Pine with full facilities including a pool, hot tub, and more.
• Whitney Portal Campground – Located near Mount Whitney with basic amenities and bear-proof storage.

Alabama Hills allows free dispersed camping, but campers need to follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.

If camping isn’t your style, there are hotel options in nearby Lone Pine.

We hope this helped you plan your trip down Alabama Hills Movie Road!