We bit our nails and crossed our fingers as the snow started to fall earlier this week in Mono County. Would there be any color left after the storm?
We are happy to report that incredible scenes unfolded Wednesday as the clouds lifted and the sun broke through, and many colors remained to show off another day.
This weekend is going to be amazing. Daytime temps are rebounding into the 60s, roads are mostly clear (or will be in the next day or two), and snow will likely linger only at higher elevations — just enough for picture-perfect mountain views.
Mid- and lower-elevation locations are peaking beautifully, including Convict Lake, June Lake Loop, Lee Vining Canyon, Twin Lakes Bridgeport, and Walker River Canyon. While a few trees have dropped leaves, every area still has a rich mix of greens, yellows, oranges, and reds. We’re expecting at least two more weeks of gorgeous color if conditions hold. Everything, however, is GO NOW! Please don’t wait.
The Mono County color-spotting team stuck to the paved roads yesterday and used pullouts for photos — and they weren’t alone! Families, anglers, and photographers were out enjoying the day, too. Please drive carefully and watch for wildlife — deer are still on the move.
Dirt roads like Summers Meadow, Green Creek, and Lobdell Lake may be muddy for a few more days; the same goes for some trails, especially in shaded or higher areas. Tioga, Sonora, and Monitor Passes remained closed as of Wednesday evening but were expected to reopen soon — perfect timing for a weekend road trip once they do.
Check road conditions, pack a few layers, and charge your phone or camera! There’s still time to catch the magic – we hope you can come enjoy fall before the season fades!
Thank you for helping keep the Eastern Sierra, its wildlife, visitors, residents, and yourself safe this fall.
WALKER / COLEVILLE / TOPAZ
Monitor Pass (8,314′) — likely 75-100% Peak (GO NOW!)
Temporarily closed as of 10/15/25 due to snow. We’ll update when it reopens. We are guessing there’s still some color, and this scenic drive is always well worth the trip with sweeping views of Mono County’s Antelope Valley.
West Walker River, Walker, Coleville & Topaz (5,200′) — 50-75% Near Peak (Go Now.)
Read more here.
Sonora Pass (9,623′) — likely 75-100% (GO NOW!)
Temporarily closed as of 10/15/25 due to snow. We’re guessing this stunning drive will be peaking (75–100%) when it reopens — a top road trip route once conditions allow.
Lobdell Lake Road (9,274′) — likely 75-100% (GO NOW!)
We didn’t travel up this week due to snow-covered roads, but it’s likely peaking. Once the roads dry out, we’ll visit again – stay tuned!
Note: Lobdell Lake Road is in bad shape this year and we do not advise driving past the recommended turnaround spot (see map). Up to that point, you’ll enjoy big, beautiful views and have a safe place to turn around. Beyond, expect severe washouts, water crossings, deep ruts, and rough terrain—not worth it, especially since the lake itself is a low reservoir. Burcham Flat Road (county-maintained) is generally well-graded but does show some wear and tear. Best access is from the south end via US 395 (just south of Sonora Pass), though a loop can be made with East Side Lane in Walker. Keep in mind that cell service is spotty to nonexistent, and a tow would be extremely expensive.
BRIDGEPORT / VIRGINIA LAKES
Read more here.
LEE VINING
Tioga Pass (9,943′) — Past Peak (You Missed It)
Temporarily closed as of 10/15/25 due to snow. We’ll update when it reopens. We are guessing the highest reaches that had color are likely past peak now, but this drive is never lacking in beauty, any time of year.
Lee Vining Canyon (6,781′) — 50-75% Near Peak (Go Now.)
Gorgeous side drive below Tioga Pass with peaceful creek views and vibrant contrast against the granite cliffs towering above. Please watch for work trucks in the area.
Lundy Lake & Canyon (7,858′) — 75-100% Peak (GO NOW!)
Another magical spot! Around the lake, color is vibrant! We did not go past the resort where the road becomes dirt/gravel but could see that some trees appeared to be past peak. Stop at the Lundy Lake Resort store for a peek at local history, enjoy a picnic by the campground pullouts, and drive carefully – this narrow, winding road can be busy with lots of blind spots.
BENTON & 120 EAST
Sagehen Summit (8,139’) — Past Peak (You Missed It)
Until next year!
Note: This is a remote dirt road with no cell service or facilities. Stop at a visitor center visitor center in Lee Vining before heading out, and bring plenty of gas and water. Wildlife is abundant here, so drive slowly, pack out all trash, and use designated parking or pullouts (never stop in the road). Enjoy the colors on foot, and watch for cars and OHV riders.
JUNE LAKE LOOP
June Lake Loop/Hwy 158 (7,654′) — 50-75% Near Peak to Peak (GO NOW!)
Read more here.
MAMMOTH LAKES
Mammoth Lakes Basin (8,996′) — 75-100% Peak (GO NOW!)
Read more here.
CROWLEY LAKE/MCGEE CREEK/CONVICT LAKE
McGee Creek Canyon (8,600’) — 50-75% Near Peak (Go Now.)
A brilliant mix of snow, greens, and golds! Expect chilly temps if you hike into the canyon and possible snow or ice in shaded spots. Along the road is green enough that the colors should last for another week or two. Note: the road is getting rough — large potholes and puddles will slow your drive on the paved and dirt sections to the trailhead.
Crowley community (6,781′) — 50-75% Near Peak (Go Now.)
The hillsides above town are starting to fade, but the colors along Crowley Lake Drive and the park are still gorgeous.
Note: Please remember Crowley is a residential community. Drive slowly, watch for people and kids walking and biking, and be respectful of residents and their space.
Convict Lake (7850′) — 50-75% Near Peak (Go Now.)
When does this lake ever look bad? Add snow-dusted peaks and glowing fall color for icing on the Convict cake. Plenty of color remains, with enough green to keep it beautiful for another week or two.
Rock Creek Road (9,600’) — likely Peak to Past Peak. You almost missed it.
We didn’t make it to Rock Creek this week but expect the area to still be putting on a show, especially below the lake. Guessing the lake level and above is past peak, though. Will update in the next few days after we visit. Stay tuned!
