Mono: Bodie, tufa towers and lakes

Bodie is a gold-mining ghost town preserved in a state of “arrested decay”: controlled deterioration defines this historic site. At Mono Lake, tufa towers form when freshwater springs rise through the lake’s alkaline water. The area also offers trails, waterfalls, lakes, and rivers, with different ways to spend time outdoors. When planning your trip to Mono, you can choose to focus on history, landscapes, or activities.

Bodie and the History of the Gold Rush

Bodie State Historic Park preserves the ghost town in its state of controlled decay. The phrase “arrested decay” describes this character precisely: the town is preserved as a ghost town rather than presented as a fully restored setting. The Miner's Union Building houses a museum with artifacts and books. The townscape and museum offer different ways to explore Bodie, from the preserved site to the objects and books inside the building.

Trails and Waterfalls

Devils Postpile National Monument has about eight miles of trails, with options for different fitness levels. One specific hiking destination is Rainbow Falls: a five-mile, hilly trail leads there from Devils Postpile. Seasonal conditions can affect the hike. Rainbow Falls is the tallest waterfall on the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River; the water drops 101 feet. The information about trail length and terrain can help you distinguish this hike from the other options.

During shuttle bus season, a mandatory shuttle serves the trailhead to Devils Postpile. Schedules can change, so check the timetable before your visit. Mammoth Mountain Ski Area offers a different focus: its summit is at 11,053 feet, and the ski area covers more than 3,500 acres. Skiable terrain and facilities can change, so check current information if you’re planning your stay around skiing.

Tufa Towers, Birdwatching, and Getting Your Bearings in the Region

At Mono Lake, you can explore the tufa towers at South Tufa on a self-guided walk. The lake also has educational and interpretive trails. Mono Basin Scenic Area Ranger Station & Visitor Center pairs views of Mono Lake with interpretive exhibits and guided tours of the region. Operating details can vary by season.

There are 115 bird species at Devils Postpile; which ones you see depends on sightings and seasonal conditions. The Annual Bird Chautauqua takes place every June and offers birdwatching field trips. Check event dates before your trip. More broadly, Mono County is an eastern gateway to Yosemite National Park. Access to the park is seasonal, and conditions can change. At Tioga Pass, turnoffs lead to trails, campgrounds, and crystal-clear lakes; some facilities may close seasonally.

Lakes and Fishing Opportunities

Convict Lake and June Lake appeal to different interests. Convict Lake was formed by glaciers; a three-mile trail loops around the lake, where trout fishing is also possible. June Lake has a sandy beach with a swimming area, and the lake is also an option for kayaking. Beach conditions and facilities can vary. If you’re planning to walk around a lake or fish for trout, Convict Lake offers those options; for swimming or kayaking, consider June Lake.

Fishing opportunities on the San Joaquin River and at Hot Creek also differ. The San Joaquin River is designated as a Wild Trout River and offers fishing opportunities for people of all experience and skill levels. Hot Creek is a year-round catch-and-release fishery: only artificial hooks without barbs are allowed. Check the current rules and license requirements before fishing.

Discover more destinations: Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, Coleville, Lee Vining, Calaveras County, San Bernardino, Sacramento, Stanislaus.

For the broader travel overview: California.