MONO LAKE
Mono Lake is one of the Eastern Sierra’s most iconic landscapes. Known for its tufa towers, migratory birds, open desert views and unusual ecosystem, it’s an easy stop for a quick visit or a half-day of exploring.
MONO TUFA STATE PARK
an ancient saline lake shaped by volcanoes, freshwater springs and thousands of years of evaporation. Its unusual chemistry supports a remarkable ecosystem of brine shrimp, alkali flies and millions of migratory birds, while volcanic islands and tufa towers tell the story of a landscape that is still changing today.
SOUTH TUFA
Walk among Mono Lake’s iconic limestone tufa towers at one of the most popular stops in the Mono Basin. A short trail leads through the formations and down to the shoreline with incredible views across the lake.
BIRDING
Mono Lake is a major stop along the Pacific Flyway and one of California’s most important habitats for migratory birds. Different seasons bring thousands of grebes, phalaropes, gulls and other species to the lake and surrounding wetlands.
PADDLING
Get out on the water for a completely different perspective of Mono Lake. Paddlers can explore the shoreline and tufa formations while taking in huge views of the Sierra Nevada rising above the basin.
LEARN
JOURNAL
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The Complete Visitor’s Guide to Mono Lake
Tufa towers rise beside open water, birds gather along the shoreline, and the Sierra Nevada forms a dramatic backdrop. Mono Lake invites you to slow down, look closely, and discover a landscape unlike the mountain lakes nearby. This Mono Lake visitor guide will help you choose where to go, understand what you’re seeing, and plan…
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.