Mono Lake, Saline lake in Mono County, California, US.
The endorheic basin contains limestone formations known as tufa towers rising from the water surface, reaching heights of several meters above the lake level.
The lake formed 760,000 years ago as a terminal water body, maintaining its current geological characteristics through continuous mineral accumulation and volcanic activity.
Northern Paiute people, known as Kutzadika'a, gathered protein-rich alkali fly pupae from the lake's edges as a traditional food source.
Visitors can access multiple viewing points around the lake perimeter, with South Tufa providing the most direct path to observe the limestone formations.
The water contains such high concentrations of salt and minerals that it supports only two main species: brine shrimp and alkali flies.
Location: Mono County
Elevation above the sea: 1,944 m
GPS coordinates: 38.01659,-119.00931
Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:13
This collection of natural formations displays various shapes and structures that developed through geological processes over Earth's history. The landscape provides insight into the geological forces that have sculpted the terrain throughout millions of years, attracting scientists and nature enthusiasts.
Bodie
21.8 km
Tioga Pass
24.8 km
Mount Dana
22.7 km
Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve
8.4 km
Mono Basin
9.1 km
Mount Conness
27.9 km
Panum Crater
10.2 km
Conness Glacier
27.6 km
Tioga Lake
23.6 km
Tioga Pass Entrance Station
24.8 km
Lyell Canyon
30.8 km
Mount Gibbs
23.6 km
Mono Basin National Scenic Area
8.6 km
Bloody Canyon
20.1 km
Great Sierra Mine Historic Site
24.8 km
Kuna Peak
28.6 km
Koip Peak
28.2 km
Hall Natural Area
26 km
Dunderberg Peak
23.8 km
Agnew Lake
31.1 km
Blacktop Peak
29.7 km
June Lake Beach
25.3 km
Lee Vining Canyon
17.6 km
Mono Lake Volcanic Field
2.6 km
Danburg Beach
11.1 km
Obsidian Dome
28.7 km
Navy Beach
8.4 km
Tioga Lake Overlook
24 kmReviews
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