Sunrise light on a grove of tufa towers emerging from the water of Mono Lake with soft green and dusty-red wild grasses in the foreground, Canada geese in the shallow water with reflections of the rocky towers, and desert hills in the distance.

Island closure lifts for boaters

Beginning August 1 boaters can visit Negit Island (pictured), Paoha Island, and Mono Lake’s islets.

gullsnegit

The islands are closed to boaters from April 1 to August 1 each year, in order to protect the nesting population of California Gulls. The gulls are nearing the end of their breeding season, so now visitors can take the opportunity to explore Mono Lake’s distinctive islands.

As always, when you boat on Mono Lake, be aware of the weather forecast, take more food and water than you think you’ll need, and be off the water by noon when high winds usually pick up across the lake. If you plan to stay overnight on the islands or the distant shore you must obtain a permit from the Forest Service Visitor Center. Check out this information on boating before you go, and stay safe!