When traveling on US-395 through the Eastern Sierras in California make a stop at Mono Lake near the town of Lee Vining.
Mono Lake covers about 65 square miles and was formed & isolated over one million years ago. Throughout the years the lake has become very alkaline and is nearly 2 1/2 times saltier than the ocean.
Most people are drawn to Mono Lake because of the strange formations that rise from the waters. They are called Tufas. These limestone towers are formed through a chemical reaction underwater and some of these grow to a height of 30 feet. Mysterious and beautiful. 
The level of the lake shrank drastically once water diversion began in the 1940’s which exposed great areas of Tufa ridges around the lake. Water management is markedly different today and at times only the upper most part of these appear today. You’ll get a different experience every time you go due to the climate conditions at the time.
Mono Lake is also sanctuary to over a million birds that come here yearly. Hiking trails get you even closer to the lake to do some bird watching or tufa watching!
The Visitor Center is located just north of Lee Vining off of US 395 and a good place to learn more about this incredible place. It’s open April through November.
It’s all about the journey. If your destination is Yosemite, Devils Postpile, Mammoth, June Lake, Tahoe, or any other exciting place in the Eastern Sierra Nevadas, put Mono Lake in your agenda.
There are great surprises along the way as you get out and #FindYourPark.