Mono Lake lies on Highway 395, 13 miles east of Yosemite National Park, near Lee Vining, and it is the most distinctive stop on the eastern approach. California State Parks describes it as an ancient lake in the eastern Sierra known for its tufa towers, formed by calcium-carbonate deposits. The lake covers roughly 65 square miles, is more than a million years old, has no outlet, and is about two and a half times as salty as the ocean. South Tufa is the best stop if you have time for only one, with a one-mile self-guided nature trail that explains the lake's natural history. The reserve also has parking, restrooms, drinking water, picnic areas, a beach area and a vista point, and the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center sits just off the highway north of Lee Vining. The lake protects habitat for one to two million birds that feed and rest here each year, and because of the dense water, swimming is buoyant, though the water stings in eyes and cuts. Day use runs sunrise to sunset with a small vehicle fee, and conditions change, so call 760-647-6331 for updates; the state parks page notes the County Park boardwalk was closed until further notice following the Inn Fire. In winter the area is quiet, State Route 120 closes east of the Highway 395 junction, and the South Tufa road is not plowed, though access is possible when weather permits. Cross-country skiing is possible when snow allows.
Why it is worth a stop. The tufa towers, formed underwater and exposed when water was diverted from the lake's tributaries, make a surreal foreground at sunrise or sunset when the lake turns pink and gold. It is a place where geology, birds and history meet, and it gives travellers who cross Tioga Pass a memorable end to the high-country day.
Doing it well. Walk the trail slowly, read the interpretive signs and stay on the path to protect the tufa, which is fragile. Bring layers because weather changes quickly, carry water, sunscreen and a hat, and keep drones at home, since they are not allowed over the lake or shoreline without a special use permit. Dogs are allowed in most areas but not on the State Reserve Boardwalk or at the County Park.
Who it suits. Photographers, families, geology fans and anyone driving Tioga Road. Pair it with the Tioga Road scenic drive, Gaylor Lakes, a meal in Lee Vining and a visit to Bodie State Historic Park.
What to expect
The experience
A one-mile self-guided nature trail among tufa towers at South Tufa on the shore of an ancient salt lake near Lee Vining, with facilities and a nearby visitor center.
Best time
Sunrise and sunset for colour and calm water; spring and autumn for bird activity.
How long
One to three hours.
Tips
Stay on the trail, keep the salty water out of your eyes and cuts, leave drones at home and call ahead for current conditions.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers and curious travellers heading east over Tioga Pass.
- Families
- The easy trail and strange scenery suit most children.
- Couples
- A golden-hour walk beside a surreal lake.
- Pair with
- Tioga Road, Gaylor Lakes and Bodie.
- Time needed
- One to three hours.
Good questions
Where is Mono Lake?+
On Highway 395, 13 miles east of Yosemite National Park, near Lee Vining.
What is South Tufa?+
The best stop for visitors with limited time, with a one-mile self-guided nature trail among the tufa towers.
Is there a fee?+
A small vehicle day-use fee applies, and special rates may apply at busy times. Fees can change.
Can I swim?+
Yes, but the lake is about two and a half times as salty as the ocean and stings eyes and cuts. Keep it out of your face.
Is it open in winter?+
Day use continues, but State Route 120 closes east of Highway 395 and the South Tufa road is not plowed, so access depends on weather.
