Summary
June Lake’s surroundings are the epitome of high mountain beauty with granite mountains that wear snow caps in winter, clear blue lakes, and — best of all — not as many people as Lake Tahoe or Yosemite.
At the eastern base of the Sierras in California, just off Highway 395, the town of June Lake is a great destination if you want to tour the scenic Mono Basin. The picturesque June Lake Loop drive goes through the town and past a series of small, alpine lakes. Fishing is the area’s most popular activity, but it’s also one of California’s premier spots to see spectacular fall foliage. In winter, there’s a small ski area.
The lake’s surface is at 7,621 ft (2,323 m). If you live closer to sea level, consider reading up on tips for traveling to the mountains before you go.
Why Should You Vacation at June Lake?
If you’re planning a trip to June Lake, it has a friendly, small-town atmosphere. It’s smaller than the nearby Mammoth Lakes but offers a more laid-back and charming experience.
Fishermen will appreciate the opportunity to fish in June Lake, Silver Lake, Gull Lake, and Grant Lake. The annual Monster Trout contest, held in April, is a fantastic chance to showcase your angling skills. Trophy-sized rainbow, German brown, and cutthroat trout are the most common catches.
The lakes also provide excellent opportunities for boating and kayaking. Additionally, numerous hiking trails are available nearby for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
Photographers flock to June Lake in the fall for the breathtaking foliage, a blaze of aspen gold that usually peaks in early October. In fact, many of the best places to see fall foliage in California are located in the June Lake region.
June Mountain is the local ski resort, featuring 35 trails and seven lifts.
Things to Do
Some of the most interesting attractions in the June Lake area include Mono Lake, known for its fantastical rock formations and high alkalinity that makes it nearly inhospitable to life.
June Lake is also in proximity to Bodie ghost town, which is one of the best-preserved gold rush towns in the West. From June Lake, you can embark on a quick tour of scenic Highway 395.
You may also consider a side trip to Mammoth Lakes, Convict Lake, or Lee Vining.
Exploring the local natural hot springs can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to soak and appreciate the surrounding beauty simultaneously.
Where to Stay
There are several excellent hotel options in June Lake, including the luxurious Double Eagle Resort and the family-owned Boulder Lodge, which is situated right on the lake’s shore. You may also stay in nearby towns and still enjoy the lake ambiance. Be aware that many hotels welcome “leaf peepers” in early October, so it’s wise to plan ahead if you can.
Where to Eat
Several restaurants are available in town, offering simple meals at reasonable prices. The restaurant at Convict Lake Resort is considered one of the best east of the Sierras, albeit a bit on the pricier side. For a more lively atmosphere and some of the best meals nearby, travelers in the know congregate at Whoa Nellie Deli at Tioga Gas Mart, located north of June Lake at the corner of Hwy 395 and Hwy 140 in Lee Vining.
Events
June Lake hosts a monster fish contest in April, showcases stunning fall color in October, and features a triathlon in July.
Best Time to Go
The ideal time for a June Lake trip depends on your interests. Anglers should aim to visit during the fishing season, which typically starts around the end of April. For leaf peepers wishing to enjoy the vibrant fall colors, early October remains the best choice, although peak leaf color can vary from year to year.
If you reside near the San Francisco Bay area, accessing June Lake during winter may pose challenges due to Tioga and Sonora passes being closed. To check road conditions, enter highway number 120 for Tioga Pass or 108 for Sonora Pass at the CalTrans website. In cases of pass closures, consider taking I-80 east directly to US Hwy 395, or route south along CA Hwy 89 around Lake Tahoe to reach US Hwy 395.
