Hauntingly Beautiful Mono Lake, CA

I can't think of another well hidden gem as strikingly beautiful as Mono Lake. If you are ever driving up or down legendary HWY 395 (on the way to Mammoth Lakes or Lake Tahoe), take a quick detour and stop by Mono Lake South Tufa Reserve.  You won't regret it! 

Some call Mono Lake the California's Dead Sea, as it is three times as salty as ocean! It is also known for the unusual tufa formations that tower over the lake. And when the waters are calm, you can see the towers' reflection. But oh, the color combination is out of this world gorgeous.  And unlike some areas in California, Mono Lake has four seasons, and I cannot to go back and experience it during fall and winter. Must be incredible.

Mono Lake also has an important ecosystem, millions of migratory birds depend on it. Sadly, the lake is endangered. In 1941, as Los Angeles expanded, the lake's water source was diverted to Los Angeles Basin. And in 40 years, the lake lost its volume by half, it was evaporating faster than rain water was replenishing it. And while an agreement was reached to save it, legal battles and drought conditions slowed progress toward the goal. You can find more detailed information at monolake.org.

Yes, more I travel and explore the nature, more passionate I become about protecting our planet. It is unthinkable to lose this beauty to the environmental mismanagement and, to the extent, our own inaction. We all need to do more, raise awareness, recycle, conserve, and hold those who manage the environment accountable. Earth is our home planet and we should treat it like our home, with care and respect. So please spread the word.

where to eat

If you are hungry for lunch, Epic Cafe is a great place to eat near Mono Lake South Reserve.