Manzanar

Driving up Highway 395 on our way to Bishop or Yosemite or the Pacific Northwest, we’ve all seen the National Historical Site of Manzanar to the West. With its guard tower looming over the Owens Valley between Lone Pine and Independence. But, it’s rare to hear of those who have stopped there. Or even of our children learning about it in school; myself included.

It is so important that we don’t forget about Manzanar. That we continue to talk about and remember our country’s flaws so as not to repeat history. Especially in today’s political climate. The less we talk about it, the more we hide it and turn a blind eye, the closer we get to seeing these tragedies happening again.

Growing up, I never learned about Manzanar or the other internment camps located throughout the United States during World War II. It wasn’t until I was 20 years old and driving up the highway to Lake Tahoe that I found out about America’s dirty little secret. That we had sent hundreds of thousands of Japanese-Americans, citizens of these United States, to live in the most in-humane conditions in some of the most remote areas of the country because of our own fears.

I know, I know. What does this have to do with the outdoors? Well, when visiting Manzanar (likely on your trips to Lone Pine, Big Pine, Bishop or Mammoth), you can take part in the relatively flat 3+ mile hike that surrounds the outer border of the Park. If you’re not feeling up to hiking it, it is also a drive-able dirt road.

Before venturing outside, head over to the only original building left standing, the rec center. This building houses enough historical information to keep you there for a full day of reading. There is also an amazing documentary style film that plays every 30 minutes in the rec center and lasts 22 minutes. It’s worth the time to sit and watch. But I’ll warn you: bring your kleenex! And, if you’re with your littles, make sure you ask about the Junior Ranger program. Once you’re ready, head out the rec center back doors to start your hike.

On the trail, you’ll learn how the people of Manzanar lived. From the recreated barracks and latrines, to the makeshift basketball court and baseball diamond and the heartbreaking cemetery located at the foot of the Eastern Sierras. There are also numerous Japanese Gardens you can visit with benches setup to sit, meditate and reflect on what you’ve learned and what you’ve seen.

So, the next time you’re heading North (or South) on Hwy 395, why not stop in at Manzanar. Hiking can be about so much more than simply getting outside. For more information on Manzanar, including hours and events, please visit the National Parks Service’s website HERE.

Hike safe and see you on the trails!