Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, Protected limestone formations at Mono Lake, California.
The reserve encompasses ancient tufa towers formed by calcium-rich springs mixing with alkaline water along the shores of Mono Lake.
The California State Legislature established Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve in 1981 to safeguard its geological formations and ecological systems.
Native American tribes relied on Mono Lake's resources for centuries, harvesting alkali flies and using the surrounding land for seasonal settlements.
Visitors can access the reserve through marked trails at South Tufa, with ranger-led tours available twice daily during peak season.
The lake contains water that measures 2.5 times saltier than the ocean, creating conditions where specific organisms and mineral formations thrive.
Location: California
Inception: 1981
Operator: California Department of Parks and Recreation
Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=514
GPS coordinates: 37.94253,-119.02875
Latest update: May 11, 2025 05:22
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Obsidian Dome
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Tioga Pass Road Valley View
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