Mono Lake Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Mono Lake
Mono Lake


Explore this saline lake, where you can sail in high winds, see stunning rock formations and watch over 2 million migrating birds that visit each year.

Take a daytrip to Mono Lake to experience the other-worldly geology and stunning wildlife populations that make up a high-saline water body. This lake was formed over 760,000 years ago in a salt-heavy basin, which nourished a thriving ecosystem of brine shrimp, insects and birds. Learn about the indigenous Americans who lived here, the Kutzadika’a people, whose staple food source was the lake’s insect pupae.

Visit Mono Lake Visitor Center to delve into the environmental history of the area. In 1941, lake water was diverted to the growing city of Los Angeles, dramatically dropping lake level. Subsequent restoration efforts have replenished Mono Lake to within 40 feet (12 meters) of its former level. Attend seminars and walks directed by naturalists to hear more about ongoing geological developments and regional wildlife.

See the lake’s stunning vistas on a hiking or boating tour. Experience is required for sailors, as submerged rocks and high winds create challenging conditions. Alternatively, explore Mono Lake on a kayak or canoe.

Stop at the tufa towers, a jagged rock outcrop that rises out of the salty water in intriguing shapes. Enjoy the best views from a designated boardwalk in the South Tufa portion of the state reserve, which features information boards explaining the fascinating geological formations in the area.

In summer, watch the lake come alive with over 2 million migratory birds who come to nest and feed on the plentiful brine shrimp. Take a birdwatching tour to spot over 35 species of shorebird, including American avocets and sandpipers.

In the evening, enjoy a grilled meal at a restaurant overlooking the lake in Lee Vining. Find accommodations here on the lake’s western border.

Mono Lake is located east of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. Get here via a 25-minute drive from Bridgeport. Stop at the visitor center to pay the admission fee for access to the lake.

Plan a trip to see Mono Lake

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The Pines Resort
AutoCamp Yosemite
Cedar Lodge

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Mono Lake

Lake View Lodge

Lake View Lodge

2.5 out of 5
51285 Highway 395, Lee Vining, CA
Lake View Lodge
Lee Vining Motel

Lee Vining Motel

2 out of 5
51340 U.S. 395, Lee Vining, CA
Lee Vining Motel
Yosemite Gateway Motel

Yosemite Gateway Motel

2.5 out of 5
51340 Highway 395, Lee Vining, CA
Yosemite Gateway Motel
Tioga Lodge At Mono Lake

Tioga Lodge At Mono Lake

3.5 out of 5
54411 US-395, Lee Vining, CA
Tioga Lodge At Mono Lake
Heidelberg Inn

Heidelberg Inn

2.5 out of 5
85 Bolder Lake View Dr, June Lake, CA
Heidelberg Inn
Lake Front Cabins

Lake Front Cabins

2.5 out of 5
32 Brenner St, June Lake, CA
Lake Front Cabins
June Lake Villager

June Lake Villager

2.5 out of 5
2640 Highway 158, June Lake, CA
June Lake Villager
Virginia Creek Settlement

Virginia Creek Settlement

2.5 out of 5
70847 US Highway 395, Bridgeport, CA
Virginia Creek Settlement
Gull Lake Lodge

Gull Lake Lodge

2 out of 5
132 Bruce Street, June Lake, CA
Gull Lake Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Mono Lake

Mono Lake offers a plethora of activities for visitors, including breathtaking sunrise views, excellent birdwatching opportunities, and camping experiences. One of the highlights is the round cabin adventures, providing a unique way to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area. Whether you're exploring the diverse wildlife or simply soaking in the serene landscapes, Mono Lake is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Recreation

Experience a round of golf at Snowcreek Golf Course, offering scenic outdoor vibes just 41.8km from Mono Lake. For a serene escape, head to Mammoth Lakes Basin, located 45.1km away, where you can unwind and rejuvenate amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Adventure

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort offers thrilling skiing experiences with breathtaking views, located 40.2km from Mono Lake. For more adventure, the Village Gondola Station provides an exhilarating ski lift ride, while the Panorama Gondola is perfect for families seeking outdoor adventures amidst stunning landscapes, also 40.2km away.

Nightlife

For a delightful evening near Mono Lake, catch a show at the Edison Theater, located 41.8km away. With its charming atmosphere, it's perfect for family outings or a romantic night out, offering a blend of culture and entertainment that will leave you enchanted.

Find the best attractions near Mono Lake

The Mono Lake area offers a variety of attractions, including national and state parks, marinas, and historic sites, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can also explore the nearby Mammoth Lakes for additional recreational opportunities. Whether hiking, kayaking, or simply enjoying the stunning views, Mono Lake promises a memorable experience for all types of travellers.

  • Mono Lake Committee Information Center: Located 14.5km from Mono Lake, this visitor centre offers a wealth of information about the unique ecosystem of Mono Lake. Engage in outdoor activities and family-friendly events, while learning about the area's conservation efforts and history.
  • Bodie State Historic Park: Situated 22.5km away, this historic ghost town is a fascinating glimpse into California's gold rush era. Explore well-preserved structures amidst stunning landscapes, making it perfect for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts.
  • Lundy Lake: Just 17.7km from Mono Lake, this picturesque lake is ideal for romantic getaways. With breathtaking scenery and beach vibes, enjoy activities like kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing by the shore.

Best time to go to Mono Lake

Visitor numbers around Mono Lake is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Mono Lake can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Mono Lake falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Mono Lake falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January25.9°F (-3.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
February25.2°F (-3.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March28.8°F (-1.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April36.0°F (2.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
May44.2°F (6.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June55.9°F (13.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July64.4°F (18.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
September56.5°F (13.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October44.8°F (7.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
November33.1°F (0.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
December24.8°F (-4.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mono Lake

Mono Lake provides visitors with numerous ways to save money, including free entry to the lake and nearby Lundy Lake. The best months to visit for lower accommodation costs are May to June and October, with Tuesdays being the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and find eco-friendly options, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Avoid visiting during the winter months when prices peak, and always sort by price to find the best deals for your trip.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mono Lake are May to June and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mono Lake is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Mono Lake is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Mono Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.