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Anyone ever use the Eastern Sierra Transit Authority shuttle. My partner and I usually get a cheap rental car when we fly into Reno. He's having health issues and might have to bail on our trip this year, and if he does, I'd as soon not rent a car. I'd be going Reno-Bishop.

Just looking to get folks' opinions of the shuttle.

Thanks!

Used the shuttle when going to Yosemite to start JMT. We left our car in Lone Pine with friends, took ESTA from Lone Pine to Bishop and the Yosemite bus to the valley. The ESTA (in 2009) was great. They would stop when you asked them to, would unload people in front of their homes and all in all was great transportation. They were not exactly on time (about 17 minutes late) which caused us some worry, but once the bus showed up, it was great. I understand you can take it in Lancaster and go all the way to Bishop and another bus goes all the way to Reno.

I've used ESTA quite a bit during the last few years for commuting, both the Lone Pine to Bishop and Bishop to Mammoth Lakes runs.

The bus from Bishop/Reno bus runs once a day four times a week, M, Tu, Th & Fr - northbound in the morning, southbound in the afternoon. They will stop wherever you ask them to and make scheduled stops in many of the towns along the way. Call ahead for pickup at alternative stops like Toms Place or Pine Creek or they will pass you by. It's a very popular mode of transportation in the winter for skiers and snowboarders heading to Mammoth Lakes.

The buses are fairly new, fairly clean and attract an unusual mix of individuals. They suggest making reservations for the Reno run and pickup/drop off at either the airport or the Greyhound Station. It's kinda pricy and is limited in daily offerings but all in all a good service for the area. I think if they had more trips scheduled they would have more users as it's still cheaper than driving.

You might also try the Mt. Whitney Shuttle service. I used this a couple of years ago. Will prabably cost more than the bus but less than a rental car and very flexible to suit your schedule. He goes to Reno as well.

Here's the link:
http://www.mtwhitneyshuttle.com/DestinationsMap.htm