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 Reporter |
Summary: This is an incredible walk/stroll through one of the weirdest places you will ever visit. The tufa towers surrounding Mono Lake are not only bizarre, but seem rather alien. The countryside is gorgeous with the Sierras and Mount Dana looming overhead, and the Inyo Craters forming a sulphurous line to the South. It a strange landscape that has been used in many pictures, movies (High Plains Drifter) and even great outdoor books. You will feel as if you are walking on another planet, and the strange type of life around the lake is also quite odd. The mid-section of California holds quite a bounty, and this is a treasure not too often seen. The ancient lake was recently in danger of being suffocated by the drinking and lawn watering needs of LA, but it is on the mend, and the islands once again have to be rowed to, not walked to. Explore a little off the beaten path (gently please) to find some hidden treasures not in the guide. Trailhead: Drive from Lee Vining South on the 395, turn left onto Highway 120 towards South Tufa, and head out past the craters. Take the left turn to South Tufa where the new trail parking area and restrooms are located. An interactive brochure is available for purchase and you are free to roam and wander. You may want to spend a day out here looking at all the strangeness. It is necessary to bring a copy of Pink Floyd's Wish You Were Here on any voyage to Mono Lake. The relatively new Mono Lake visitor center is north of Lee Vining and also quite worth the visit. (Lat:37.94212 Lon:-119.02343) Trail Guides for Mono Lake South Tufa : California Hiking by Tom Sinestra and Ann Marie Brown (Avalon Travel) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Mono Lake Committee (760) 647-6595 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Allen Riedel, who has posted 123 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Mono County Hiking, Mono County Trails, Mono County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
