After leaving our cabin at Glacier Lodge, we headed to Mono Lake. Dan had previously visited Mono Lake, and it was one of the places in California that he really wanted me to experience. He had hyped it up for years.

On the way to Mono Lake, we pulled off to see the Panum Crater: a Rhyolitic Plug-Dome Volcano. This detour took us off the highway for a scenic drive through the desert, ending at the Panum Crater. We took a short trail for a closer view of the crater and to snap some pictures. If we had wanted exercise, there was a much longer hiking trail (we walked for about ten minutes) and even guided tours offered later in the day. Yellow wildflowers were everywhere!

Back on the highway, and just a short drive down the road, we came to the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, which is part of the California state parks system. We started at the visitors center to look at the exhibits. The visitors center also has a great observation deck and it is the starting point for several tours, including the tour of the Panum Crater. We didn’t take any of the tours, but I think this would have been a excellent experience if we had more time. I always enjoy learning more about the places that we visit.

I think it was within walking distance, but we drove to a parking lot closer to Mono Lake, where we paid a fee of three dollars each. The payment was cash-only, which is common for the state parks, so if visiting or planning a road trip, make sure to have some cash ( small bills/ no change given) on hand.

Mono Lake has some unique features. It’s a saline soda lake, making it incredibly salty. We didn’t swim in it, but apparently you are allowed, and if you try it, you will easily float due to the salt content. Also, local legend states that the water in Mono Lake is restorative and will cure ailments.

The other unusual thing about Mono Lake is the Tufa’s, which are large columns made of limestone. They are all over the lake. The Tufa’s reminded me of the Hoodoo’s of Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. Both Bryce and Mono Lake have an otherworldly vibe. They are exquisite and unexpected.

Several walking trails were located just off of the parking lot, trails that took us both into the desert environment and to the lake shore. These trails were an easy walk that most people could enjoy and we even saw a person in a wheelchair. Don’t climb or collect the Tufa!

On the water, we spotted several groups of kayakers in the distance. Although it was a holiday weekend, Mono Lake was not crowded and it was a serene visit. I was delighted to hear birds chirping and to feel like we were alone as we traversed this bizarre landscape.

i’m thrilled that Dan insisted on taking me to Mono Lake. I spent nearly my entire life living in California and I had never experienced this local wonder. I guess sometimes it takes a person from another country to make you appreciate what you have in your own backyard. I’d love to visit again and actually get out on the lake.

We refreshed ourselves with lattes and muffins from Mono Cup Coffee.

Mono Cup Coffee is a wonderful local spot and it was near the entrance to our next stop: Yosemite National Park!