The Tufa Towers of Mono Lake

Mono Lake is located in the eastern Sierra Nevada region of California. One of the most striking features of the lake are the tufa towers, which rise up from the water's surface. These towers are formed by underwater springs rich in calcium and by the chemical reaction of calcium and the carbonates in the lake water. The result is beautiful sculptures that seem to defy gravity, some reaching as high as 30 feet. The towers are a popular spot for photographers and birdwatchers, as Mono Lake is home to millions of migratory birds.