Mono Lake Photo Trips Mono Lake is a very special place as far as I'm concerned. After more than 50 years of draining into Los Angeles, the lake will now will be allowed to refill. While it will not attain its original depth, nevertheless, it will approach conditions which led to the formation of the surealistic mineral deposits over a period of thousands of years. These formations of calcium and other minerals were formed underwater--being exposed only after man drained the lake. What you see today will not be seen again--as long as the lake is allowed to fill. Tragically, so much damage has been done to the Tufa of Mono Lake, major portions of the lake will not likely recover for centuries, if at all. If you appreciate what you see today, you must capture it on film soon, when the lake fills, the unique Tufa will again be hidden. When is the best time to visit Mono Lake? Any time. Winter is especially dramatic as witnessed by some of my recent shots. Storms in the adjacent Yosemite Park mountains lend an impending feeling to the area. Storms sweep the lake with a vengence--sub zero temperatures as a result of cold and wind are common in Winter. Spring and Summer see brine shrimp and thousands of birds all over the lake. If you get a chance to visit the lake, be sure to stop by the two visitor centers. One is dedicated to the natural elements surrounding the lake and the human efforts to protect its fragile ecology. The other center on the North end of Lee Vining is a more formal setting and presentation. However, both are well intended. All Photographs Copyright © by Gary Gaugler - All Rights Reserved - Use By Permission Only