Nearest town: Goes north-south along the Owens River Valley from Mono Lake to the North to Mount Whitney in the South Region: Eastern Sierras Park website: Link here; helpful visitor's guide here Best time of year to visit: July-September (especially if driving over the Sierras) Features of the park: A large forest that comprises five distinct areas: 1) Mt. Whitney, 2) Mono Lake, 3) Reds Meadow, 4) Mammoth Lakes, and 4) the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. Fees: Some of the areas have fees associated with them and some do not. Check specifics for where you are planning on visiting.