BIRDING

RECREATE RESPONSIBLY

BIRDING IN LEE VINING

Lee Vining sits at the crossroads of some of the Eastern Sierra’s richest bird habitat. Within just a few miles, birders can move from the shoreline and wetlands of Mono Lake to sagebrush, cottonwood and willow corridors, pine forest, and the higher elevations of Lee Vining Canyon.

BIRDING EVENTS
Play

Late spring and early summer are excellent for breeding birds, while late summer and fall bring large numbers of migrating shorebirds. Early morning generally offers the best activity and viewing conditions.

Absolutely. Many productive locations have easy trails, boardwalks, and open viewing areas. Binoculars are helpful, but curiosity and patience are all you need to begin.

Popular locations include Mono Lake County Park, the Mono Lake shoreline, Lee Vining Creek, Lundy Canyon, and nearby high-country habitats. Visiting several elevations offers the greatest variety of birds.

Bring binoculars, water, sun protection, layers, sturdy shoes, and a field guide or birding app. A spotting scope and camera are useful for viewing distant birds along the shoreline.

Depending on the season, look for California Gulls, Eared Grebes, Wilson’s and Red-necked Phalaropes, Sage Thrashers, Brewer’s Sparrows, warblers, woodpeckers, raptors, and numerous waterbirds. More than 300 bird species have been recorded in the Mono Basin.

Observe birds from a respectful distance, stay on established paths, keep dogs controlled where permitted, and never approach nests or nesting islands. Avoid loud sounds and give wildlife plenty of space.

JOURNAL

MOUNTAIN MANNERS

Eastern Sierra Community Code
FOR LOCALS & VISITORS ALIKE ❤️

LEAVE NO TRACE

Please stay on designated trails, leave natural and cultural objects undisturbed, and pack out everything you bring. Trailhead and recreation-area trash cans fill quickly, especially on busy weekends and holidays—and bear lockers are not trash cans. If a bin is full, never leave bags beside it; take your trash with you and help keep public lands and gateway communities clean.

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OPT OUT
OF FIRE

Ideally, skip the campfire and enjoy the stars instead. Fire restrictions can change quickly across Mono County, so always check current regulations before lighting a fire.

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SHOP
LOCAL

Tourism places real demands on small gateway communities, from roads and public safety to restrooms, waste removal, and visitor services. When you shop, dine, and stay locally, the tax revenue you generate helps our county meet those demands and keeps local businesses—and the community—strong.

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SLOW
DOWN

Slow down and enjoy the ride. Our roads travel through small towns, rural communities, wildlife corridors, and recreation areas. Speed limits change frequently and local roads may have pedestrians, cyclists, livestock, or wildlife nearby.

KNOW
YOUR LIMITS

Our region spans dramatic elevation changes and diverse landscapes. A short walk can quickly become a strenuous adventure due to heat, altitude, weather, or terrain. Carry plenty of water, know your route, start early, and choose activities that match your experience and fitness level. If you’re bringing a dog, remember they experience heat, rough terrain, and altitude differently than people.

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RESPECT
LOCALS &VISITORS

Our region is a collection of small, rural communities surrounded by public lands, where both locals and visitors, and animals belong. Be bear aware. Don’t feed the bears. Please respect those who call this place home, welcome those passing through, and treat everyone with patience, kindness, and consideration.

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