Fall color season is underway in the Eastern Sierra! Here in the Mono Basin the aspens, cottonwoods, and willows are still mostly green with patches of gold and orange.
Sagehen Summit is the star of the show so far, glowing orange far out to the southeast of Mono Lake. Mono County Tourism has classified this grove as “50-75% go now” in this week’s fall color report.
Other groves near Mono Lake are either “0-10% just starting,” like Tioga Pass, Lee Vining Canyon, and Lundy Canyon. The June Lake Loop is also “0-10% just starting” this week. Conway Summit and Virginia Lakes are a little farther along at “10-50% patchy.”
Mono County Tourism’s weekly reports are a great source of fall color information for planning your visit, along with the reports from the Bishop Chamber of Commerce for information on fall colors in Inyo County. California Fall Color is another good resource.
As you plan your visit to enjoy the fall colors, please remember these safety tips from Mono County Tourism:
- Be aware of wildlife: Animals (like black bears) are preparing for winter and others (like mule deer) are migrating. Slow down and be cautious when driving, especially early in the morning or late in the evening.
- Park safely: Use designated parking areas and avoid parking in the middle of the road or on vegetation. Some roads are narrow and parking is very limited.
- Road safety: Roads can be narrow, winding, and have several blind spots. With so many out walking, taking photos, biking, and driving (+ wildlife!), please be especially alert on the roads.
- Be aware of changing weather. Weather can change quickly in the mountains; always check weather and road conditions before and during your visit.
- Please remember to Leave No Trace and always mind your Mountain Manners.
- Communicate with others: Many areas of Mono County have no or very little cell service. Whether you’re driving, hiking, or any other activity, please let someone know where you are going and when you plan to be back.
- Stay on trails: If you’re hiking this fall, please know that staying on designated trails ensures safety, protects plants and animals, minimizes environmental impact, and prevents erosion… to name just a few reasons.
- Camp Like a Pro and check for any alerts, notices, and fire restrictions.
If you want an immediate update about the fall colors or weather conditions here at Mono Lake, give us a call at (760) 647-6595 and we’ll tell you what we know!
Top photo by Brendan Peralez: Fall color at Sagehen Summit on September 23, 2025.