FALL COLOR REPORT

REPORT DATE: 10/29/25

Farewell Fall

While this past weekend’s strong winds wrapped up the fall color season for much of the area, we were still able to find some beautiful vibrant patches. June Lake, Twin Lakes in Bridgeport and Lower Rock Creek still showcase beautiful fall hues.

The next few weeks are expected to be warm and sunny, so anyone hoping to squeeze in one more fall adventure won’t be disappointed. Don’t miss stopping by Mono Lake South Tufa in the golden hours of fall for a true rejuvenating moment with nature.

Wearing layers is key for staying comfortable during fall visits. Temperatures at night and early morning can be cold and the days, with glorious low fall sunlight, can feel quite warm. As we creep closer to winter, please check weather and road conditions before and during your travels.

To fully embrace the last breath of fall, spend some time with our local ghosts at Bodie Historic State Park, open daily 9am to 4pm.

Fall Events

• Oct. 31: Bridgeport Zombie Crawl
• Ongoing in October – Chalfant Big Trees Farm Pumpkin Patch
• Ongoing thru November 9 – Ambush at the Lake fishing derby at Convict Lake.
  Oct. 24-26: Morrisons Cash Bonus Weekend
• Oct. 31-Nov. 2: Eastern Sierra History Conference

Check our Fall Events page for more. 

Guide:
0-10% Just Starting
10-50% Patchy
50-75% Near Peak (Go Now!)
75-100% Peaking (GO NOW!)
Past Peak (You Missed It)

WALKER / COLEVILLE / TOPAZ 
Monitor Pass (8,314') – Likely past peak
The higher elevation passes took most of the storm head on so while we did not get up the passes this week, we do believe they are past peak.
West Walker River, Walker, Coleville & Topaz (5,200') – Past Peak (You Missed It)
Topaz Lake continues to hold onto it's color and it is the only area in Mono County NOT passed peak. However, the rest of the Walker and Coleville area are past peak. Some light color has hung on through the wind in the river canyon, but we suspect it will be gone soon.
Sonora Pass (9,623') – Likely past peak
The higher elevation passes took most of the storm head on so while we did not get up the passes this week, we do believe they are past peak.
Lobdell Lake Road (9,274') -- Past Peak (You Missed It)
Note: Lobdell Lake Road is in bad shape this year and we do not advise driving past the recommended turnaround spot (see map). Up to that point, you’ll enjoy big, beautiful views and have a safe place to turn around. Beyond, expect severe washouts, water crossings, deep ruts, and rough terrain—not worth it, especially since the lake itself is a low reservoir. Burcham Flat Road (county-maintained) is generally well-graded but does show some wear and tear. Best access is from the south end via US 395 (just south of Sonora Pass), though a loop can be made with East Side Lane in Walker. Keep in mind that cell service is spotty to nonexistent, and a tow would be extremely expensive.

BRIDGEPORT / VIRGINIA LAKES
Twin Lakes (7,000') – Past Peak (You Missed It)
Virginia Lakes (9,819’) – Past Peak (You Missed It)
Virginia Creek is a bit sheltered as it moves toward Bodie, but the higher elevation is completely wind affected.
Conway Summit/Dunderberg Meadows (~8,143) – Past Peak (You Missed It)
Summers Meadow/Green Creek (7,200'+) – likely Past Peak (You Missed It)
We didn’t venture in on these dirt roads but were able to view the colors from Bridgeport. Green Creek is a bit more sheltered than Summers Meadow so if there is color in this area it will likely be in the Green Creek drainage.
Bridgeport/Lee Vining Tip:  Bodie State Park is still open and not to be missed – if you’re in this area, pop out to the park!

LEE VINING
Tioga Pass (9,943') – Past Peak (You Missed It)
Lee Vining Canyon (6,781') - Past Peak (You Missed It)
Lundy Lake & Canyon (7,858') – Past Peak (You Missed It)
The color that remains is near the resort and the beaver ponds.

BENTON & 120 EAST 
Sagehen Summit (8,139’) – Past Peak (You missed it.) 
Until next year!
Please Note: This is a remote dirt road with no cell service or facilities. Stop at a visitor center visitor center in Lee Vining before heading out, and bring plenty of gas and water. Wildlife is abundant here, so drive slowly, pack out all trash, and use designated parking or pullouts (never stop in the road). Enjoy the colors on foot and watch for cars and OHV riders.

JUNE LAKE LOOP
June Lake Loop/Hwy 158 (7,654') – Past Peak (You Missed It)
The area around Silver Lake and in the town portion of June Lake is where you will find any of the color that remains here.  

MAMMOTH LAKES 
Follow Visit Mammoth for the most up-to-date information for Mammoth Lakes: VisitMammoth.com

CROWLEY LAKE/MCGEE CREEK/CONVICT LAKE
McGee Creek Canyon (8,600’) – Past Peak (You Missed It)
Crowley community (6,781') – Past Peak (You Missed It)
Note: Please remember Crowley is a residential community. Drive slowly, watch for people and kids walking and biking, and be respectful of residents and their space.
Convict Lake (7850') -- Past Peak (You Missed It)

ROCK CREEK CANYON
Rock Creek Road (9,600’) -- Past Peak (You Missed It) 
Lower Rock Creek Road – Past Peak (You Missed It)
A few trees are holding onto color at the time of this report but the majority have lost their leaves and are past peak.

BISHOP & INYO COUNTY 
Follow Bishop Chamber of Commerce (aka Visit Bishop) for the most up-to-date information for areas like North Lake, South Lake, Lake Sabrina, etc.: BishopVisitor.com

EASTERN SIERRA & ALL OF CALIFORNIA
Follow California Fall Color at CaliforniaFallColor.com

Fall Color Safety Tips:

• Be aware of wildlife: Animals (like black bears) are preparing for winter and others (like mule deer) are migrating. Slow down and be cautious when driving, especially early in the morning or late in the evening. 
• Park safely: Use designated parking areas and avoid parking in the middle of the road or on vegetation. Some roads are narrow and parking is very limited.  
• Road safety: our roads can be narrow, winding, and have several blind spots. With so many out walking, taking photos, biking, and driving (+ wildlife!), please be especially alert on the roads.
• Be aware of changing weather. Weather can change quickly in the mountains; always check weather and road conditions before and during your visit. 
• Please remember to Leave No Trace and always mind your Mountain Manners. 
• Communicate with others: many areas of Mono County have no or very little cell service. Whether you're driving, hiking, or any other activity, please let someone know where you are going and when you plan to be back. 
• Stay on trails: if you're hiking this fall, please know that staying on designated trails ensures safety, protects plants and animals, minimizes environmental impact, and prevents erosion... to name just a few reasons. 
• Camp Like a Pro and check for any alerts, notices, and fire restrictions.