Devils Postpile National Monument

The Devils Postpile basalt formation resembles tall columns.
Devils Postpile formation is one of many features to see at Devils Postpile National Monument.
Hexagonal fractures that make up the columns at the postpile with glacial polish
Part of the popular loop trail will take you to this unique geologic formation.
Waterfall with faint rainbow
Rainbow Falls
Soda Springs Meadow and San Joaquin River
Soda Springs Meadow and San Joaquin River
Photos: National Park Service

About Devils Postpile National Monument

Established in 1911 by presidential proclamation, Devils Postpile National Monument protects and preserves the Devils Postpile formation, the 101-foot high Rainbow Falls, and pristine mountain scenery. The formation is a rare sight in the geologic world and ranks as one of the world's finest examples of columnar basalt. Its' columns tower up to 60 feet and display a striking symmetry.

Quick Facts

State California
Designation National Monument
State Code CA
Weather Devils Postpile National Monument is located at 7,560 feet above sea level just west of the Sierra Nevada crest. As such, it experiences typical summer weather in the Sierras. Afternoon…

Location & Map

Devils Postpile National Monument is located in California.

Operating Hours

In the operating season, Devils Postpile National Monument is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Monument usually opens in mid-June. By mid to late October, early winter storms in the High Sierra typically begin to bring snow to the area.

Wednesday All Day
Monday All Day
Thursday All Day
Sunday All Day
Tuesday All Day
Friday All Day
Saturday All Day

Activities

Astronomy Stargazing Biking Road Biking Camping Car or Front Country Camping Fishing Hiking Front-Country Hiking Horse Trekking Horseback Riding Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching

Getting There

Shuttle Bus: Most visitors must park at the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and use the mandatory shuttle. The shuttle bus operates from mid-June through the Wednesday after Labor Day. By car: From U.S. Highway 395, drive 10 miles west on S.R. 203 to Minaret Vista and then another 8 miles on a paved, steep mountain road. Please note that this road is single lane for approximately 3 miles. By plane: The closest commercial airport is the Mammoth Lakes/Yosemite Airport (MMH), located on U.S. Highway 395.

View Official Directions

Contact & Address

Address Devils Postpile Access Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA, 93546
Phone 7609342289

Topics & Themes

Animals Climate Change Fire Forests and Woodlands Coniferous Forests Geology Groundwater Freshwater Springs Mountains Natural Sounds Night Sky Astronomy River and Riparian Scenic Views Trails Volcanoes Watersheds Waterfalls Wetlands Marshes Swamps Wilderness

Visitor Centers

Devils Postpile Ranger Station

The Devils Postpile Ranger Station is open daily from 9 am - 5 pm during the operating season which is typically mid-June to mid-October. Rangers…

Hours: The ranger station is open summer only

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