Mono Lake
South Tufa Area

Mono Lake is an ancient lake, over a million years old, sitting at over 6,000 feet in elevation in the high desert of central California. The tufa formations are created when calcium-rich spring water mixes with the carbonate-rich lake water, forming limestone towers. These towers can grow upwards of 30 feet tall under the surface of the water. Unfortunately, they stop growing once exposed and are very fragile, so be sure to stick to the sandy footpaths and avoid stepping on them.

Best Geological Formations to Photograph

  • The Tufas, duh. I mean, that’s why we’re here, right! Walk alongside the towering tufa structures from the parking lot down to Mono Lake, and capture their unique shapes and sizes.

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Photographing Tufa Reflections: Now for the real fun! One of the most magical aspects of Mono Lake is the reflections of the tufa towers in the still waters. To capture these reflections, visit during early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the water is calm. Use a tripod to keep your camera steady and experiment with different angles to get the perfect shot. And definitely use a polarizing filter if you have one!

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The Sierra Nevada Mountains: If you're standing at the South Tufa area of Mono Lake and looking west, you’ll see the Sierra Nevada mountain range dominating the horizon. Key peaks include Mount Dana and Mount Gibbs, located near the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite National Park. These towering peaks create a stunning backdrop, often dusted with snow for much of the year, and offer a dramatic contrast to the ethereal tufa formations and the reflective waters of Mono Lake. The interplay of rugged granite mountains and the tranquil lake makes this view especially compelling for photographers. Get you some!

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