Where in the World?

Glacial Erratics at Olmsted Point

Our destination for the day was to reach and then explore Tioga Pass Road in Yosemite National Park. Tioga Pass Road is probably one of the most scenic roads in California. It starts around 6000 ft. (1829 m) elevation and then begins to drop quickly after Tioga Pass which is 9943 ft (3021 m) in elevation.

Olmsted Point has spectacular views of of Half Dome from the east which is quite a different perspective from the valley views. Large glacial erratics pepper the landscape like a group of marbles. Hardy pines find crevices in the rock to anchor themselves.

Turning slightly northeast from here gives you clear views of azure blue Tenaya Lake at 8150 ft. (2484 m) elevation. Tenaya lake feeds Mirror Lake in Yosemite Valley through Tenaya Creek. The photo link below has a couple of photographs of Tenaya Lake.

Tufa Towers in Mono Lake

Passing through Tioga Pass was quite overwhelming. We had to stop several times to view the dramatic landscape around us. The air was thin making it difficult to breath after exerting ourselves.

We meandered down to Mono Lake which is currently around 6385 ft. (1946 m) in elevation. Due to recent laws, the lake is being restored to levels seen in the 1940’s.

I have always wanted to go here. My daughter and I really enjoyed walking around the strange and alien landscape of tufa towers, desert plants, bizarre insects and dozens of bird species including ospreys.

It was a long day and we were in need of nourishment and a good night’s sleep. The nearby town of Lee Vining supplied both.

View my photos for this day (10 photos).

Michael