Mammoth Lakes
July 19, 2011
Mammoth Lakes is a town in Mono County, California. If you are travelling around the Eastern side of Yosemite or North of Mammoth, a visit to serene Mono Lake is an excellent stop. The shores of the lake are famous for the convoluted shapes of the tufic limestone. The lake is surrounded by mountains which are quite spectacular.
Originally formed in this very salty lake underneath the water, the drop in the lake level has now exposed these bizarre formations, along the south shore mainly. Pictures will better in the late morning, when the sun angle lights them up the best — although any time of day will work actually. The best analogy would be: these tufa formations are to water, what the Bryce Canyon hoodoos are to a canyon — although Bryce Canyon covers a much larger area.
Ranger-led tours (a fast moving 1.5 hours) give you an overview of the lake’s origin, ecological importance and its role in ongoing California “water wars”. Children and adults will be fascinated with the lake’s history and formations. Easy hikes near the lake offer incredible views.
Stop by Mono Lake for some very unique pictures to add to your vacation photos.
