Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve

Mono Lake's tufa towers look like nothing else in California — pale, knobby limestone spires rising straight out of a salty, alkaline lake far older than the Sierra Nevada itself. The Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve protects this landscape along with the wetlands and shoreline that make it one of the more important stopover sites for migratory birds in the region. It sits just off Highway 395 near Lee Vining, a short detour from the Tioga Pass road into Yosemite, though far fewer people make the stop than the short drive would suggest.

What You'll Find at the Shore

A boardwalk and designated paths lead from the parking area out to the tufa towers, keeping visitors on solid ground and off the fragile, sometimes soft lakebed. Reviewers consistently point to sunrise and sunset as the best time to see the towers glow against the water and the surrounding desert mountains. Bird activity along the shore is a regular part of the experience, especially during migration.

Before You Go

• Wind is common and there's very little shade, so sun protection and layers are worth having on hand.
• Alkali flies gather near the water's edge in warmer months — expect them close to the shoreline.
• Use the boardwalk on the right side of the parking area rather than cutting toward the water near the pay station, where the ground can turn muddy.

The reserve holds a 4.6-star rating across more than 1,200 reviews, with visitors repeatedly calling it one of the strangest, most memorable stops in the area. For current conditions or reserve information, call (760) 647-6331.