SIDEWINDER FOR ALL.
Welcome to the Sidewinder Low Level
Spanning nearly 300 miles, the Sidewinder is a training route frequently used for low-level training by the United States Military. Monday through Friday and an occasional Saturday, you can watch our military's finest men and women train in their fighter jets- often flying just 500 feet off the ground and 500 knots- that's over 575 mph!
Starting near Lake Isabella, the route travels through Sequoia National Forest along the Kern River, before cutting over to the Owens Valley. (There are a handful of great viewing locations along the river.) From there, the jets can either head north to continue on the route past Lone Pine, or they can head East, taking a short-cut known as the Jedi transition (the black line).
To clear up some confusion, The Jedi transition is also commonly known as "Star Wars Canyon/Rainbow Canyon/or Father Crowley Overlook. This spot used to be an amazing place to see jets, but has since been closed down after an F-18 crashed there in 2019. Jets that fly the "Jedi" are now required to stay well above the canyon walls.
Heading North, the jets will pass a popular spotting location known as "Haystack" near Point Delta along the route. Sometimes referred to as "Heartbreak Hill" the pilots have a couple options and may fly on the opposite side of the hill, eliminating your chances to see them well.
Eventually, the route will take them over to the Eureka Dunes before heading back south through the Panamint Valley in Death Valley National Park. These locations are generally not recommended in the warmer, summer months as temperatures can easily exceed 100 degrees.
About the Sidewinder Low Level
Popular Spots
What Should I Bring?
Types of Aircraft
First-time Sidewinder visitors should try one of the spots along the Kern River. This will give you the highest number of jets and there are a handful of options to suit every hiking skill level. There are even a few spots you can drive to that don't require hiking at all.
Types of Aircraft
What Should I Bring?
Types of Aircraft
F-15s, F-16s, F-18s, and F-35s are the most common jets along the Sidewinder. F-22s, F-117s, and A-10s are some of the rarer jet types, but they do make an appearance from time to time. Other aircraft have been known to visit as well, such as C-17s, C-130s, and even V-22 Ospreys.
What Should I Bring?
What Should I Bring?
What Should I Bring?
Depending on the time of year and location, temperatures can range from below freezing to well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Water is a must and here's a list of some other items that I've found helpful.