Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in Eastern California, the Mono Basin Scenic Area encompasses approximately 118,000 acres surrounding the ancient Mono Lake, one of the oldest lakes in North America, with a history stretching back millions of years. The lake is renowned for its unique tufa towers—limestone formations created by the interaction of freshwater springs and alkaline lake water. Mono Lake's hypersaline environment has fostered a unique ecosystem teeming with brine shrimp and alkali flies, which in turn support a phenomenal avian population, with over 300 bird species, including migratory birds like eared grebes and Wilson's phalaropes. The basin's terrain ranges from sagebrush flats and pinon-juniper forests to the glaciated peaks of the Sierra Nevada. This diverse landscape offers a range of recreational opportunities, from hiking and photography to bird watching. The historical and geological depth of Mono Lake makes it a critical study site for scientists and an awe-inspiring location for visitors. A stop at the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center provides insightful exhibits on the region’s intricate geology and cultural history.
