Mono Lake South Tufa
Explore surreal limestone tufa towers rising from a ancient, saline lake in California's Eastern Sierra. A photographer's dream!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light on tufas
Mono Lake South Tufa
Best Time
Golden hour light on tufas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore surreal limestone tufa towers rising from a ancient, saline lake in California's Eastern Sierra. A photographer's dream!
"The otherworldly formations rising from the water were absolutely breathtaking, like something from a science fiction film."
🚶♀️ Walk the South Tufa Loop
An easy 0.8-mile loop trail offering stunning views of the tufa formations.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground can be muddy and uneven, especially near the water's edge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
South Tufa Towers
South Tufa Area
Otherworldly limestone formations rising from the saline lake, creating a surreal, alien landscape.
Sunrise/Sunset Views
South Tufa Area
Witness the magical glow of the sun illuminating the tufa towers and the vast desert landscape.
+1
Unique Ecosystem
Mono Lake
Home to brine shrimp and alkali flies, this saline lake supports a unique ecosystem unlike most others.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
+2Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the South Tufa Loop
An easy 0.8-mile loop trail offering stunning views of the tufa formations.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground can be muddy and uneven, especially near the water's edge.
👃 Be Prepared for the Smell
The saline lake has a distinct odor due to its unique ecosystem.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Capture the surreal landscape, especially during golden hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the South Tufa Loop
An easy 0.8-mile loop trail offering stunning views of the tufa formations.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground can be muddy and uneven, especially near the water's edge.
👃 Be Prepared for the Smell
The saline lake has a distinct odor due to its unique ecosystem.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Capture the surreal landscape, especially during golden hour.
🚗 Easy Access from 395
South Tufa is the most accessible part of the lake, just off Highway 395.
🏊♀️ Float in Salty Waters
Experience buoyancy like the Dead Sea due to high salinity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the otherworldly beauty of Mono Lake's tufa towers, describing the landscape as surreal and unique. The easy accessibility of the South Tufa area and the stunning photographic opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset, are frequently praised. Some reviewers note the lake's distinct smell and the presence of alkali flies, advising others to stick to boardwalks and designated trails for the best experience.
"Looks beautiful from 39000 feet in the air ! I hope to visit some day for a closer view :)) the water and the mountains around a truly magical from air."
Ivan Nekrasov
"My family and I stopped by the reserve with a limited amount of time to explore. What we did see was beautiful and interesting. We didn't have an opportunity to hike to the larger tufa formations, which were a distance away. We didn't see the boardwalk on the right side of the parking lot and took the route on the left side of the parking lot near the pay station. I would suggest not doing this as it took us to the waters edge where in some places, the ground was soft and mushy. For those of us who mis-stepped, we got our shoes muddy. Also, it did not smell very good and there were swarms of alkali flies. I would suggest observing from a short distance and utilizing the board walk. With that being said, I would still like to return to further explore and to hike on the designated trails. the tufa formations are definitely interesting. I would still definitely recommend this place due to it's uniqueness."
Isela Rodriguez
"It’s a salt lake. Not many remaining writhed the world. Most salt lakes on california have dried all up and turned into desert landscapes. Just like the Trona pinnacles which it used to be a saltine lake. The landscape and topography are crazy to see. It’s very close to Yosemite National park but many people don’t visit here."
been’there
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mono Lake South Tufa is located off Highway 395 in Mono County, California. It's about a 30-minute drive south of Lee Vining. The South Tufa area is the most accessible part of the lake and has a designated parking lot.
Yes, Mono Lake is located on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada mountains, making it a popular stop for those traveling to or from the eastern entrance of Yosemite National Park.
Most visitors drive to Mono Lake, as it's part of a scenic road trip through the Eastern Sierras. Highway 395 is the main route.
Public transportation options are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle for exploring the Eastern Sierras and Mono Lake.
Highway 395 is generally well-maintained. However, always check road conditions, especially during winter months, as snow can impact access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a per-person fee for the South Tufa Fee Area. As of recent information, it's $3 per adult. Check the official Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve website for the most current pricing.
The South Tufa area is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal closures or advisories.
While the South Tufa area has a fee, there might be other access points to the lake that are free, though they may not offer the same amenities or views of the prominent tufa towers.
No, advance booking is typically not required for general entry to the South Tufa area. You pay the fee upon arrival.
Yes, restrooms are available at the South Tufa parking area, which is convenient for visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Explore the unique tufa towers, walk the South Tufa Loop trail, take photos, and experience the saline waters. Birdwatching is also popular in the surrounding wetlands.
Yes, you can swim in Mono Lake, but be prepared for the extremely high salinity, which makes you very buoyant. The water can also be irritating to eyes and skin.
Tufa towers are limestone formations created when calcium-rich springs meet the alkaline waters of the lake. They form underwater and become visible as the lake level recedes.
The most popular is the easy 0.8-mile South Tufa Loop Trail. Other informal paths allow exploration of the shoreline.
Mono Lake is a crucial stop for migratory birds. You can also find brine shrimp and alkali flies, which are vital to the lake's ecosystem.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the tufa towers and the surrounding landscape. The soft, warm light creates beautiful contrasts.
The South Tufa area is packed with photogenic tufa formations. Look for interesting shapes and compositions, especially with the water and mountains in the background.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always respect the natural environment and avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging the tufa formations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod is highly recommended for sunrise/sunset shots and for capturing the unique textures of the tufa.
Drone usage may be restricted in state natural reserves. It's essential to check the official regulations for Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Explain to kids that the lake is too salty for fish but perfect for tiny brine shrimp and flies, which are food for birds! This is a great opportunity to teach them about different ecosystems. While swimming is possible, the high salt content might be uncomfortable for younger children, so supervise them closely. Also, be prepared for the smell of the lake and the presence of flies, which are part of the natural environment.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+2Plan your visit around sunrise or sunset for the most magical light. The golden hues cast on the tufa and the reflections on the water are breathtaking. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery and a tripod for low-light conditions. Don't forget to explore the South Tufa area for the most iconic views.
+3🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
You can easily spend a couple of hours here exploring the tufa towers and taking photos. It's a perfect spot for a picnic lunch (pack it in, pack it out!) and to stretch your legs. The unique landscape makes it a memorable and worthwhile detour on any Eastern Sierra road trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fascinating Tufa Towers
+1The South Tufa area is the most accessible and visually striking location to witness these formations up close. Wandering among them feels like stepping onto another planet. The stark white of the tufa against the deep blue of the saline lake and the surrounding desert mountains creates a dramatic and unforgettable scene, making it a prime spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
+1It's crucial to remember that these formations are ancient and fragile. Visitors are asked to stay on designated trails and avoid climbing or touching the tufa to help preserve them for future generations. The South Tufa Loop Trail offers a convenient way to experience these wonders without disturbing the delicate ecosystem.
+1Mono Lake's Unique Saline Ecosystem
The high salinity also means that the water is incredibly dense, giving visitors a unique experience if they choose to swim. You'll find yourself floating effortlessly, similar to the Dead Sea. However, the water can be quite irritating to the eyes and skin, and the presence of alkali flies, especially in warmer months, is a notable characteristic of the lake's environment.
This delicate balance is a testament to nature's adaptability. The lake's health is closely monitored, and efforts have been made to restore its water levels after significant declines in the past. Understanding this unique ecosystem adds another layer of appreciation to the otherworldly beauty of Mono Lake.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit