Inyo National Forest

Recreational Activities - Fall Colors

Fall Color Update - Inyo National Forest

October 31, 2008

This year Fall was short, but sweet, in the Eastern Sierra. 

Fall colors in the Mono Basin, June Lake Loop, Mammoth Lakes, and nearby drainages are nearing an end. Isolated pockets at lower elevations are still showing some colors, but the season's first major winter storm is predicted for the weekend of November 1, and will likely result in an end to fall colors in the area. Two to four feet of snow is predicted in the mountains in the upcoming storm, which will likely close Tioga Pass for the winter, but will produce beautiful photography opportunities once the weather calms and mountain snow is reflected in Mono Lake.

Further to the south, fall colors in the high country of Bishop Creek, Rock Creek and McGee Canyon have given way to their pre-winter state. Most of the leaves in the high country are now off the trees and what remains are brown or black. Even the colors in the mid-elevations have peaked and are on their way out.

There is some beautiful color in the valley towns and a few locations in the lower canyons and protected areas of the mid-elevation canyons, but for the most part the fall colors have peaked, snow is on the way and we're getting ready for winter in the Eastern Sierra.

Weather is unpredictable: Bring warm clothes, water, cameras, binoculars, sunscreen and snacks.

PARK WELL OFF THE PAVEMENT! And ENJOY!

US Forest Service - Inyo National Forest
Last Modified: Friday, 31 October 2008 at 14:27:27 EDT