SeeCalifornia.com

MONO LAKE, CALIF.–Something so beautiful in photos must be amazing to see in real life!  Mono Lake in the Eastern Sierra mountains is one of the oldest lakes in the western hemisphere. It is known for its unusual looking structures that rise out of the water like ancient fortresses. These tufa towers made of minerals created when fresh-water springs bubble up through the alkaline waters of the lake are one of California’s natural wonders, much like the plumes at Lassen Volcanic National Park.

While this fascinating place sustains millions of plants, animals and migratory birds, its life was in the balance when water was diverted from tributary springs that feed the lake. The water has been piped to Southern California since around 1941. The volume of the lake halved, its salinity doubled and the ancient tufa structures were nearly lost as the lake dried up. Environmental groups rallied to get the laws changed so that Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (DWP) couldn’t completely divert the lake’s water sources and destroy a significant part of California’s history and critical habitat for a variety of bird species.

A compromise was reached and DWP is now responsible for getting the lake levels up to minimum standards as prescribed by a set of guidelines. A local organization called Mono Lake Committee (monolake.org) acts a steward, reporting on water levels, initiating restoration projects, and educating the public. Volunteer docents offer tours around Mono Lake during the summer months.  Be sure to book ahead for guided tours during your visit to the area. You can also rent kayaks or boats and take them out on the lake to explore the natural features up close. Incredible Inyo National Forest which surrounds the lake, offers camping galore or  you can use Lee Vining, Calif. as your home base with hotel accommodations that include cabins, lodges and B&Bs.