What to Know About Visiting Mono County After California’s Heavy Rains

California had an exceptionally heavy wet season this year, creating some unique challenges for family travelers. Excessive rain and snow left the state’s Sierra Nevada Mountains covered in snow, much still melting, and while the water was much-needed by the drought-ridden state, many roads, campgrounds and trails were affected.

Located in California’s Eastern Sierras, go through the mountains to get there, but many of these roads were damaged by heavy rain and snow systems. Sonora Pass along SR 108 reopened June 9, making that road and Monitor Pass along SR 89 your best ways to reach the county and its beautiful attractions. To help visitors stay up to date on road openings and closures, as well as which campgrounds and hiking trails are accessible, Mono County has created a webpage

updated every other week with the latest info available.

As temperatures continue to warm up and the excessive snowpack, the largest in recorded history, begins to melt, there is a risk of flash flooding, so visitors should always be aware and take steps to stay safe while enjoying places like Yosemite, Devil’s Postpile National Monument and Mono Lake. Lakes and rivers are deeper than usual, with stronger currents and colder waters, so be sure to use caution as you enjoy things like fishing, hiking, kayaking and swimming.

While the weather may have created a few hiccups, it has given the ordinarily dry climate a boost. Colorful wildflowers are in bloom everywhere you look, and the remaining snowpack in the midst of summer creates a dramatic landscape. From outdoor attractions to historic locations like the Wild West ghost town of Bodie, there is plenty to do in Mono County for a summer vacation that won’t soon be forgotten, as long as you respect the power of Mother Nature.