question re: Mono Lake

[PirateScott]

I am plannning a photo trip to Yosemite to climb Half Dome and shoot Mono Lake. I need to find a spot to shoot the tufa statues while I'm there. Have any of you shot this ? If so where is the best spot to shoot from without being on the water ? So far I see that there is some good shots to be had from Navy Beach. If anyone has some suggestions please let me know, it would be greatly appreciated.

[Killjoy]

I'd love to know as well. I'll be there next week (Maybe Monday or Tuesday).

[Pommekitty]

I don't know where's the best spot to shoot the tufa statues but I know that you can get a great view of Mono from the Virginia Lakes area. Just head towards the Virginia Lakes and then take the dirt road that goes toward Bridgeport (it starts at the "packstation" sign) for a bit and then take the first right (still a dirt road). You can only see a bit of the lake but it fits beautifully in the scenery and the colors are wonderful. I used to work at the packstation there and the Mono Lake view was always one of the favorites for short day rides.

Also, if you have the time, there's a great view to be had from the top of the Dunderberg. But I think you need a 4x4 to get to the top (I've only ever done the trip on horseback).


The scenery is beautiful in this part of the Sierra. I used to do camp trips in Yosemite there. It doesn't get as many tourists as Yosemite Valley and you really get a feel of the wilderness.

If you're into ghost towns, there's also Bodie that's not far. It's a great spot for photos. The sunsets are particularly gorgeous and can also give the place a spooky atmosphere.

[Killjoy]

Thanks, Bodie is on my trip list too! ;)

[PirateScott]

Thanks for the tips. I'm sure that I will get some photos of a life time thanks to your suggestions !

[eaglerockphoto]

I shot this series at South Tufa a few weeks ago: http://www.eaglerockphotography.com/p670185210

Pretty nice tufa formations both in and out of the water there. Its a longer drive (and then walk) than you think from Lee Vining, so just be sure to leave plenty of time to get there if you are trying to catch pre-sunrise and sunrise.