Mono Lake – Lee Vining, CA

#springitinerary Spring at Mono Lake was otherworldly and peaceful. The strange tufa towers rose from the shimmering water, and snow still capped the nearby Sierra Nevada peaks. Birds were everywhere — grebes, gulls, and avocets — making it a birder’s dream. The cool air and dramatic light gave the lake a mystical vibe, especially at sunrise. I walked the South Tufa Trail and felt like I was on another planet. #springitinerary tip: bring binoculars and a jacket — it gets chilly near the water. It’s an eerie, beautiful stop for nature lovers and photographers.