In the event of a federal government shutdown this weekend, popular visitation sites at Mono Lake will remain open. Here’s what we know right now about how the shutdown would affect the Mono Lake area.
South Tufa: The South Tufa area at Mono Lake is operated by the US Forest Service. Visitors will still be able to access this area. South Tufa tours are continuing at 1:00pm on Saturdays and Sundays with Mono Lake Committee staff.
Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve: Old Marina will remain open (Located just east of Highway 395 one mile north of Lee Vining). The Mono Lake County Park/State Natural Reserve boardwalk will remain open (from Highway 395 about 5 miles north of Lee Vining, turn east onto Cemetery Road, drive about 1/4 mile and turn right into parking area). Camping is not permitted at these sites any time of the year.
Mono Lake Committee Information Center & Bookstore: Open 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday–Thursday and 9:00am to 7:00pm Friday–Sunday.
Scenic Area Visitor Center: The Forest Service Scenic Area Visitor Center will close in the event of a shutdown.
Bodie State Historic Park: Will continue to be open daily 9:00am to 6:00pm.
Dispersed recreation: General Inyo National Forest and Bureau of Land Management lands in the Mono Basin will remain open to self-guided hiking and exploration. Remember to leave no trace if you are using public lands. Visit Camp Like a Pro for more information about dispersed recreation.
Yosemite National Park: We’re still waiting for further information from the National Park regarding their plans in the event of a shutdown.
Help the Inyo! At all times, but especially during the closure, all visitors to the Inyo National Forest should “pack it out,” clean up after themselves, and help clean up after others. Plan ahead as bathrooms may be closed or unstocked.
We will keep you updated on any change in status regarding the government shutdown at the Mono Lake Committee Information Center & Bookstore and here on the blog.
Top photo by Fiona Travers.