The Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve in Lee Vining, California, USA was established to preserve the spectacular tufa towers which were formed by the interaction of freshwater springs and alkaline lake water to form calcium carbonate spires and knobs. The ancient Mono Lake is over a million years old, and one of the oldest lakes in America covering over 65 square miles, and throughout the years, salts and minerals have washed into the lake from the Eastern Sierra streams. Freshwater evaporating from the lake each year has resulted in salts and minerals being left behind, making it two and a half times as salty as the ocean and very alkaline, come to Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve for a fascinating visit. Boating and swimming is permitted at the lake and it's the perfect setting for a wonderful hike, also enjoy interpretive programs and bird walks, plus there's a visitors centre.READ MORE

The Mono Inn in Lee Vining, California, USA is a historic restaurant and gallery with country store coming soon, with a long history going back, it was and still is a favorite watering hole for locals. With executive chef creating an exquisite menu of small plates like the cheese plate with charcuterie if desired, soups and salads and mains of spice pork tenderloin, pan seared Barramundo, filet mignon, braised bison and pan fried chicken breast as well as vegetarian options, all are welcome. The Mono Inn caters to food allergies and serves bread on request, large groups are welcome with a 20 percent gratuity added, come for your dining pleasure and the history, the view and the service, oak furnishing, the beer and wine bar, seasonal outdoor seating and more, it's all here.READ MORE

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Mono Lake Kayak Rentals in Lee Vining, California, USA are directly across from Tioga Lodge, and here they provide kayaks with carts which can be wheeled to the lakes edge. They also provide maps, PFD's and waterproof bags, and the best time to paddle the lake in calm weather is in the morning, so kayakers must return by 1 to 2 pm. Rent a kayak from Mono Lake Kayak Rentals and treat yourself to exciting adventures and the wonders of the lake, the see the beauty that draws thousands of visitors every year, enjoy the rich bird populations and rare beauty of the numerous tufa formations, it's all here and more, a must do.READ MORE

Tioga Lodge at Mono Lake in Lee Vining, California, USA is located in the heart of the Mono Basin National forest scenic area and open in season from May through to mid October. Their quaint and comfy cabins on the north and south side are uniquely themed and personally decorated for the perfect stay, they come with front porch and views over Mono Lake and excellent amenities, WiFi is available in public areas. Tioga Lodge at Mono Lake features the Hammond Station Restaurant in a historical building that was moved from Brodie, and with seating available on the patio and in the garden has an exquisite menu of all natural California casual cuisine, open from breakfast, they specialize in gluten and dairy products with vegetarian choices, come for a rustic lodge experience and your dining pleasure on the lake shores, it's fabulous here.READ MORE

The Mono Basin History Museum in Lee Vining, California, USA is located in the Mono Lake school house and offers fascinating displays that tell the history of the Mono Basin. Come view the displays of artifacts, furniture, maps and equipment, the photograph's that chronicle the history, learn about the Kutzedikaa Paiutes, regional gold mining, homesteads, ranches, schools and resorts in the area and more. The Mono Basin History Museum outdoor exhibits feature the Nellie Bly O'Bryan's world famous upside down house, as well as farming and mining equipment, come for an unforgettable visit.READ MORE

Sunset South Tufa Tours in Lee Vining, California, USA welcomes you on a fascinating sunset walk with naturalist guide over just an hour, it is a great activity for kids and all ages. This sunset walk takes you among strange tufa towers and bubbling springs, enjoy the wildlife, the birds and brine shrimp, and learn the behind the scenes story of the most unusual lake in California. Sunset South Tufa Tours will share with you the stories about efforts to protect this million year old lake, and about the unusual natural history, it's not to be missed.READ MORE

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Mono Cup Coffee in Lee Vining, California, USA brings you the best coffee in town, brewed strong from really good beans and the service is really friendly, don't start a perfect day without a visit. Always brewed fresh and with the best espresso in the area served with a smile, they have outdoor seating and kids are welcome, plus they are open for a good breakfast. Mono Cup Coffee have plenty of hot and cold coffee and tea options to choose from as well as hot chocolate and good pastries, and it's a great place to stop on your way to Yosemite, you will be back.READ MORE