Travel Guide to the Lake Crowley stone Columns
Welcome, adventurers! Are you ready to embark on a journey that will take you to a hidden gem nestled in the beautiful state of California? I present to you the Lake Crowley Stone Columns—a captivating wonder that will leave you in awe. Brace yourselves for an epic adventure filled with breathtaking views, exciting hiking trails, and the opportunity to connect with nature like never before. Let’s dive into this travel guide and discover everything you need to know about this unique destination.
Location and Directions
The Lake Crowley Stone Columns are located in the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, just off Highway 395 in Mono County, California. Here are the exact directions to help you reach this natural marvel:
- If you’re coming from Los Angeles, hop on US-101 North and merge onto I-5 North. Continue driving for approximately 250 miles until you reach CA-14 North, which will lead you to US-395 North. Follow US-395 North for another 200 miles until you reach the Lake Crowley turnoff.
- For those traveling from San Francisco, take I-580 East to I-205 East, which will merge into I-5 South. Continue on I-5 South for around 100 miles before transitioning to CA-120 East. Finally, merge onto US-395 South and follow the highway until you spot the Lake Crowley turnoff.
Parking Information: Upon reaching the Lake Crowley turnoff, you’ll find ample parking available near the stone columns. As always, it’s essential to respect the designated parking areas and follow any posted signage.
How to get to the stone columns
Now that you’ve made it to Lake Crowley, let’s explore the various ways you can experience the awe-inspiring stone columns:
- Hiking In: Lace up your boots and embark on a scenic hike to the stone columns. There are several trails accessible from the Lake Crowley Stone Column Trailhead parking area that will lead you to the columns. Keep your eyes peeled for stunning wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding nature.
- Four-Wheeling: If you’re an adrenaline junkie with a taste for off-roading, hop into a sturdy 4×4 vehicle and conquer the rugged terrain that leads to the stone columns and get there in half the time. Embrace the thrill as you navigate through the rocky paths and reach your destination.
- Boating In: For a unique perspective, why not arrive at the stone columns by water? Lake Crowley offers ample opportunities for boating, allowing you to witness the towering columns from a different vantage point. Rent a kayak or canoe and relish the peaceful journey across the pristine waters.
How it was made
As you stand before the impressive Lake Crowley Stone Columns, you might find yourself wondering how these magnificent rock formations came to be. Let’s delve into the fascinating story of their formation and unravel the mystery.
The stone columns at Lake Crowley are a result of volcanic activity and the relentless forces of nature over millions of years. To understand their origin, we need to rewind the clock to a time when the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains were still in their infancy.
Around 760,000 years ago, volcanic eruptions began to shape the landscape, spewing lava and ash into the atmosphere. One such eruption from the nearby Long Valley Caldera covered the region with layers of volcanic material, including pumice and ash. These layers eventually solidified, forming a soft and porous rock known as Bishop Tuff.
Fast forward to the present day, and you’ll find Lake Crowley nestled within the remnants of this ancient volcanic activity. The stone columns owe their existence to the slow and relentless forces of erosion.
Over time, wind, rain, and the freezing and thawing of water have worked their magic, chiseling away at the soft Bishop Tuff. The relentless forces of nature sculpted the rock into a series of vertical columns, each with its unique shape and texture. These towering columns, reaching heights of up to 20 feet, stand as a testament to the power and artistry of erosion.
As you wander among the stone columns, take a moment to appreciate their intricate patterns and the stories they silently tell. Some columns exhibit smooth surfaces, while others showcase rough textures and jagged edges, each revealing the unique erosional processes they have endured.
Tips & Tricks
- Be sure to bring and wear bug spray. I went in the middle of June and the mosquitos were aggressive.
- Bring and wear sunscreen. The hike in has no shade, and once you are in the lake area the only shade provided is under the columns.
- Look up when exploring. The columns have a lot of bird nests on the roof, with these nests comes a lot of bird droppings so look out!
- When they say four wheel drive is needed to get down that road they were right. Tried to take a Prius and almost got stuck, so just hike in on the road if you can’t get all the way in.
Other Suggestions in the Area
While Lake Crowley and its stone columns are undoubtedly the main attraction, this area of California has much more to offer. Here are a few additional suggestions to enhance your adventure:
- Mammoth Lakes: Just a short drive away, Mammoth Lakes offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Unwind in the natural hot springs after a long day of exploring.
- Wild Willy’s Hot Springs: Don’t forget to unwind and rejuvenate at the nearby Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural geothermal pools surrounded by breathtaking vistas.
- Mono Lake: Marvel at the otherworldly beauty of Mono Lake, known for its unique limestone formations called tufa towers. Take a guided tour to learn about the lake’s ecological significance.
- Yosemite National Park: Just a scenic drive away, Yosemite National Park offers breathtaking vistas, majestic waterfalls, and incredible hiking trails.
