Summer at Mono Lake

Bodie ghost town

Bodie, located about 30 miles from Lee Vining, offers a glimpse into California's past. The gold mining town is preserved in a state of "arrested decay" and was once one of the largest towns in the state. Today, you can roam the streets, looking through windows into preserved homes and businesses. Rangers lead tours and offer special programs. $2 admission per person, open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer.

June Lake loop

The Highway 158 loop is a terrific drive through a glacier-carved canyon with views of towering peaks and quiet lakes. Popular for fishing and camping, the loop makes an enjoyable scenic drive as well.

Yosemite

Ever popular with visitors, Yosemite is one of the crown jewels of the National Park System. A visit to the valley offers the chance to see towering waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and many famous landmarks. But be sure to visit the rest of the park as well; easily accessible from Mono Lake in the summertime is Tuolumne Meadows, which offers an excellent sampling of High Sierra wildflowers and hiking. A seven-day pass is $20 per car.

Devil's Postpile

Located beyond the town of Mammoth Lakes, Devil's Postpile is an unusual geologic formation of columnar basalt.

The surrounding area offers spectacular scenery and the hike to nearby 101-foot Rainbow Falls is popular.

High Sierra hiking

Find a trail and head off in search of wildflowers, lakes, and solitude. Numerous trails are available for day and overnight hiking in the Sierra. Stop by the Mono Lake Committee Information Center for maps and advice.

How far is it?

Distance in miles from Lee Vining to:

South Tufa 11 miles

Yosemite Park entrance 13

Tuolumne Meadows 21

Mammoth Lakes 27

Bodie 32

Bishop 66

Yosemite Valley 77

Lake Tahoe 110

Reno 140

Death Valley 177