Mono Lake

Mono is a natural lake with otherworldly spires of calcium carbonate known as tufa towers that look like something out of a science fiction film. These formations are caused by the lake's salinity, which is three times higher than that of the ocean. Despite this, life thrives in and around the alkaline waters of Mono Lake, which is home to countless brine shrimp and more than 80 species of migratory birds. Mono Lake in California is one of the oldest lakes in North America, having formed an estimated 750,000 years ago. Visitors can hike, boat, camp, and even swim in the lake.

Head to Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, which maintains an easy 1-mile interpretive trail and an accessible boardwalk along the north shore. Bring your best camera with you to capture the changing reflections of the tufa towers on the lake's surface. Lee Vining is the closest town to Mono Lake; stay at the Yosemite Gateway Motel, which has expansive lake views. Because the town is small, you should consider staying in the Mammoth Lakes region, which is 30 miles to the south.