Last year, we had the opportunity to drive the 12-mile road known as the June Lake Loop. This road provides easy access to the namesake lake and three other lakes. At that time, we were blown away by the spectacular mountains and pristine waters.
The day we visited was gloomy and windy. It was our intention to return at another time with better weather conditions.
Our desires became a reality this past weekend. We drove to June Lake from Bishop on Saturday morning and were rewarded with mild autumn weather, clear blue skies, and lakes that resemble mirrors.
On top of that, the June Lake Loop is known for its vibrant fall colors (the area is full of aspens). We arrived a little bit too late. The trees were past peak by a couple of days but there were still yellow, orange and red shades everywhere.
I am still on a high note because of this trip. It is not my intention to tarnish the following photos with my clumsy words. That is the reason why I am going to keep commentary to a minimum. Hope you are a lake lover like me!
Table of Contents
June Lake Loop
Below I am highlighting the main four lakes that can be accessed by road. Notice many more lakes are located within close proximity of the main road.
June Lake
This is the lake which gives the name to the loop and main town on the area. It is considered a subalpine lake and it is located in the Mono Basin. There are two marinas on the lake (see the boats in the photos). Fishing, kayaking, and swimming are popular activities practiced by visitors.
The June Lake town is small but it covers visitor’s necessities very well (restaurants, motels, sporting goods stores, etc.). In addition, a popular ski resort is located in the vicinity.
Gull Lake
This smaller lake is located very close to June Lake. It has a marina and a general store full of quirky wood carvings, signs and posters. The lake is known as “The Home of the Monster Trout.”
Silver Lake
We started to see a lot of aspens while driving to Silver Lake. I love the reflection of the yellow trees on the water. Some parts of the mountain behind the lake were bursting with yellow flowers.
Grant Lake
This is the larger lake in the area. The Grant Lake Marina is a full-service marina with docks, fishing boat rentals, and launch. The marina has snacks, refreshment, tackle, and gasoline.
Since the water level was a bit down, cars were going down to the lake bed using unpaved roads.
June Lake Loop Details
- June Lake is located 12 miles south of Lee Vining or 60 miles north of Bishop. It is a 4-5 hours drive from Los Angeles.
- The Mammoth Lakes Airport, located about 20 miles away, receives regular flights from cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Denver.
- The town of June Lake provides services to visitors. In addition, there are many resorts around the main road. Restaurants and other facilities can be found in there.
- A drive around the loop with plenty of stops can be done in half a day. However, there is no reason to rush your time there.
- There are plenty of hiking opportunities in the area. Stop by the visitor’s center for more information.
- If you are a winter sports fanatic, this is the place to be once the snow starts to fall.
- The Eastern Sierra area abounds with places to see and things to do. You can use June Lake to explore the surrounding area (and even to visit Yosemite).
Nearby Attractions
The June Lake Loop is accessed from US-395, the highway that runs parallel to the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada. A trip to the area offers magnificent vistas and a plethora of activities.
Here are some places to check out int the area:
Mammoth Lakes Basin (about 20 miles from June Lake)- Mammoth Lakes is a well-known, year-round resort offering activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, horse riding and bike riding. A lot of people forget to visit the basin area, home to several gorgeous lakes. You can lake hop, fish or hike around.
Mono Lake Tufa Reserve (15 miles) – For a unique experience, pay a visit to the tufa formations located on the shores of Mono Lake. This place looks out of this world!
Tioga Road – The Tioga Road connects US-395 to Yosemite National Park. The road is not for those with a fear of hight since it climbs from a valley to an altitude of 9,000 feet. You will be able to experiences Yosemite’s often underappreciated high country. There are other attractions and trailheads on the road before the park’s entrance (you do not have to pay to access those).
Where to Eat
June Lake has a somehow limited selection of eating options due to t the size of the main town. Most resorts and cabins have their onsite restaurants. If you are not staying in the area, here are some eating options
Ohanas 395 – Food truck permanently parked in front of the June Lake Brewery (the local hangout). The Hawaiian fare is a favorite of many visitors to the area.
Gordons Mexican Restaurant – No-frills place ideal to get you huevos rancheros, tacos and burritos fix.
June Pie Pizza – Another popular business in the area since they open late and serve drinks.
For more eating options, head to the Mammoth Lake area.
Have you driven the June Lake Loop? Which is the most beautiful lake you have visited?
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Photo cache says
This is a spectacular part of the state. I have never been here in the fall.
Ruth says
This was my first fall visit. It is a great time to visit. The weather is very nice. The only thing is that nights can get a bit chilly and you have to go ready if you are going to camp
Jim says
Spectacular scenery
Ruth says
Thanks Jim!
Jarek says
Wow! Very beautiful blue skies. I enjoyed your former posts too.
Ruth says
Thanks Jarek! I am happy you are enjoying the posts. I had good luck with the weather on this particular trip.
ladyfi says
Oh. my. goodness! How stunning!
Ruth says
Thanks a lot! I appreciate your comment.
Felicia says
Your images are beautiful. I love the rugged mountain scenery and the lake waters are so blue. The water level in Grant Lake is really low, wow.
Ruth says
Thanks Felicia! I knew I wanted to revisit the area because I loved it so much the first time I stopped by. I think I like it more now.
Van @ Snow in Tromso says
Oh my god, the water of June lake is so clear!! And with orange foliage and snowy mountains as a back drop, this certainly is the perfect autumn destination!
Ruth says
I was a bit surprised when we entered the loop and saw the lake from above. It was a bit difficult to find a parking spot but we finally got one.
Ashley @ The Wandering Weekenders says
Oh my goodness! These photos are nothing short of stunning, and I think that I might actually be drooling! I’m so glad that you got to go back for another drive because that second day looks perfect!
Ruth says
Thanks Ashley! This area is the land of lakes. I think I will never get tired of admiring the hundred ones in this area.
Pat says
Such a beautiful area with a combination bright blue sky, high mountains and autumnal trees.
Ruth says
That is the magic of the Eastern Sierra. The good things is that the area is full of places similar to the one I am presenting in here. The possibilities to explore are endless.
Al says
Those are beautiful lakes – there’s nothing like mountains and water.
Ruth says
Agree with you Al! I am more of a beach lover but am learning to like mountains. And, there is no doubt I have always enjoyed rivers and lakes.
Marcella ~ WhatAWonderfulWorld says
Wow-eee! These photos are beautiful, so much blue to be seen 🙂
Ruth says
I know, I loved to observe the emerald and turquoise around the shores and the deeper blues on the middle of the lakes.
Rhonda Albom says
I have never been to this area. The lakes and hills look pristine and secluded.
Ruth says
Well, maybe one day you can discover more of California’s mountains. Anyway, you have tons of beautiful landscapes in New Zealand.
David says
The Lakes look incredible, especially June and Grant Lakes. So serene and great colours. Would love to visit Yosemite and that part of California. Nice one! #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
I am glad you liked the area. Yosemite and the surrounding country are a must for any nature lover (and even for people who doesn’t love nature that much).
Lauren says
So many lakes! All so different but equally beautiful! I’ve never been to Yosemite, but after my national park’s trip last year it’s high up on my list! I love a good hike too, so this looks wonderful! Your pictures of the reflections in June lake are stunning! 😀
Ruth says
Thanks Lauren! I think going to a National Park gives you a desire to visit more parks. They are so amazing! And, of course, they are full of hikes!
Sharon Wagner says
Splendid series. The sun was certainly out this time. I can see why you felt somewhat speechless.
Ruth says
I know you completely get the feeling!
Sallie (FullTime-Life) says
Stunning pictures — we’ve been to Mono lake, but years ago though I still remember it clearly. However, it was mid-summer and based on your pictures, we were obviously not there at the best season! Thank you for these.
Ruth says
I went to Mono Lake last year (you can find a post here on the blog). That is another mind blowing place on this area. You have to understand why I like it so much.
Jackie Smith says
Wow, your return visit to the lake certainly was anything but dark and gloomy. Loved these photos – such wonderful scenery!
Ruth says
All the planets were align for this second visit! I cannot wait to go back to the area. I wish I can go every weekend.
Carol says
Beautiful images, lovely scenery. I do love blue skies and white clouds.
Ruth says
I like clouds too. There weren’t that many that day but I cannot complain.
budget jan says
This post has loads of beautiful landscape shots. Too many to choose a favourite but the lake is certainly beautiful. It would be a lovely area to walk in.
Ruth says
Well, I think you can understand the difficulties I had narrowing the number of pictures in the post. I took so many beautiful ones!
Stephanie says
Wow, these are beautiful photos! #PhotoFriday
Ruth says
Thanks Stephanie! I am glad you enjoyed the photos.
Tanja (the Red phone box travels) says
spectacular indeed! #weekendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
Many thanks!
Tanja says
wow!breathtaking!
Ruth says
Glad you liked the photos!
Anda says
We’ve been at June lake last year in winter. It looks so beautiful and serene. I like it summer too. Ah, your pictures make me want to go there right now.
Ruth says
Believe me, I want to go back too. I had a super long list of places I wanted to visit but wasn’t able to cover all of them.
Upeksha says
It looks so pretty. Reminded me of my trip to Mono Lake, a couple of years ago. Makes me want to make another trip there soon. #theweeklypostcard
Ruth says
Actually, Mono Lake is visible when you are exiting the June Lake Loop. I love that lake too.
Lolo says
OMG looks absolutely beautiful! Can’t believe I’ve never been here before!! #WeekendWanderlust
Ruth says
Well, you have to make plans to visit when you return to California.
Molly says
What a beautiful place, the reflections are amazing
mollyxx
Ruth says
That was one of my favorite things of the day. And more when the colorful trees were reflecting on the water.
jill says
Stunning photos! I am headed to Yosemite tomorrow – if we can get through with the incoming snow. Keeping my fingers crossed!
Ruth says
Hope you made it! It is kind of early for snow (but it was raining today, so, snow is possible).
Anna says
These pictures, especially ones with the reflections of yellow trees, look stunning! Beautiful landscapes… Would love to visit one day!
Ruth says
The reflections were nice! I really liked the yellow ones.
Trekking with Becky says
Spectacular and incredibly beautiful shots! They’re so uplifting, especially with Moscow being overcast all the time.
Ruth says
That is the beauty of California: the sunshine. It is with us the entire year.
Jim ~ ReflectionsEnroute says
What amazing photos Ruth! You really got a spectacular day this time around. I can’t believe how crystal clear the water is. #wkendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
It was crystal clear. These are some of the most spectacular lakes I have seen.
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
I was in Mammoth Lakes a few years ago and got to see June Lake on our bus ride into the city, but it was winter so there was snow and things were pretty frozen over. Would love to visit again in warmer weather! ~ Jessica
Ruth says
I guess the area is more popular in winter than in summer. The good thing is that there are facilities that help visitors enjoy any season. I went to Mammoth too during this trip.
Ruth Daly says
What a beautiful place. Stunning photographs – the colours are so crisp and clear. I would come back from a place like this with hundreds of pics!
Ruth says
I will go back too! I do not think I can get tired of the area. The thing is that there are other lakes located within walking distance of these. We didn’t have time to hike / walk this time.
Marcelle Simone Heller says
The area around June Lake Loop is beautiful and you were able to capture the beauty perfectly in your pictures. Awesome photos!
Ruth says
Thanks Marcelle! You can see why I like this area so much.
Tara says
Wow! Breathtaking photos! We visited June Lake recently, but we must have been in a different area (plus it was summer). We spent the day at a really crowded beach, but the water was SO COLD and so perfectly turquoise. I’d love to visit again in the off season!
Ruth says
I think you guys took the road to one of the marinas instead of going towards the town. When I went here the first time, the beach was kind of full and there were tons of people practicing water sports.
Allison says
These pictures are gorgeous! Water is my favorite thing to photograph. Any body of water is so beautiful and majestic. #weekendwanderlust
Ruth says
I think we are on the same page with respect to that. I like beaches, lakes, rivers and waterfalls.
Peta Kaplan says
Beautiful. Would love to get there some day.
P
Ruth says
Hope you have the opportunity! Thanks for stopping by.
Nancie says
What an awesome day! I love how the blue sky and lakes match perfectly.Thanks for co-hosting this week. #TPThursday
Ruth says
Nancy, it was like we had an infinite of blue in front of us!
Ranthambore Tour Packages says
Stunning! Exceptionally lovely blue sky…Your pictures are excellent. I cherish the rough mountain..The water level in Grant Lake is truly low…
Ruth says
That is true, the water on Grant Lake is low but I am not sure how full it gets. The level was similar when I went a year ago.
Paula McInerney says
When we spent 2 months in America last year, the one thing we noticed is that you guys have fantastic lakes. You have just reinforced this.
Ruth says
Not sure what state you visited but I am sure lakes were abundant if you were around mountains.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
Those lakes are so pristine and clear. The ones where the waters are still are especially gorgeous because they reflect the surrounding landscape. I’m glad you had a chance to get back to that area.
Ahila says
Awesome views of the lake! Thanks for sharing!
Birgitta says
Beautiful, great series of photos!
Ruth says
Thanks Birgitta!
Jack says
OMG, my eyes feel so comfortable with your images. June Lake could be a good destination for anyone, where we enjoy the mild autumn, clear blue sky and serene lake. Thanks for your suggestion
Ruth says
If you haven’t been there, you should go. There are so many beautiful views in the area. Plus, there are places to relax (eating or drinking) and people are very nice.
Michael Brandon says
I’m so exciting and curious of the Grand Lake Marina. It looks like a blue silk stripe flows down from the sky. So stunning. Thanks for your photos. I’m gonna take a trip there.
Ruth says
Michael, you will love it up there. I want to stop by again since there are more spots I want to visit.
larry dunn says
These photos are so beautiful.My soul feels comfortable when seeing gorgeous landscape. Thanks for your sharing
Ruth says
I am glad you feel like that!
Emily says
What a romantic place !!! I’m totally in love with your photos.
Thank you for sharing us this place, Ruth 🙂 I’m gonna come to there next weekend with my family for a picnic 😀
Ruth says
It is a great place to go with the family. Hope you enjoy it (with your family of course).
Jackie says
Such peaceful vistas! And I love the contrast of the foliage, too!