The visitor center at Devils Postpile National Monument is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily during the operating season, which is typically from mid-June to mid-October. In 2024, it is open Fridays through Sundays.
Devils Postpile National Monument does not charge an entrance fee, but there is a mandatory shuttle bus fee of $15 per adult and $7 per child (ages 3-15) from mid-June to mid-September.
From Reno, drive south on U.S. Highway 395 for 3 hours to Mammoth Lakes, then west on S.R. 203 to Minaret Vista, and another 8 miles on a steep mountain road, unveiling a geological marvel amidst pristine Sierra Nevada scenery.
At Devils Postpile National Monument, parking for cars, RVs, and motorcycles is highly restricted. During summer months, mandatory shuttle use is required between 7 AM and 7 PM. Exceptions include overnight campers, certain special cases, and arrival outside shuttle hours. No overnight parking after October 15. Limited parking at Reds Meadow Valley; no parking fees for shuttle users.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Devils Postpile National Monument, situated in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada, is a geological marvel that beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its pristine mountain scenery. Established in 1911, this 798-acre monument protects the extraordinary Devils Postpile formation, a rare example of columnar basalt where thousands of hexagonal columns, some towering up to 60 feet, stand in striking symmetry.
The monument is also home to the 101-foot high Rainbow Falls, a breathtaking cascade on the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River. During the summer months, visitors can access the area via a mandatory shuttle from the Mammoth Adventure Center at Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge, adding a touch of convenience to the adventure.
A one-mile roundtrip hike leads to the Devils Postpile, offering stunning vistas and an intimate encounter with nature. The trails, including segments of the John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail, weave through the Ansel Adams Wilderness, providing ample opportunities to spot local wildlife such as marmots, eagles, and deer.
Nearby Mammoth Lakes offers a charming base for exploration, with artisan towns like June Lake and Lee Vining providing a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. For outdoor enthusiasts, local outfitters such as Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and Mammoth Lakes Fishing Charters offer guided tours and equipment rentals.
Seasonal festivals and events, including summer concerts at the Mammoth Lakes Events Center, enhance the visitor experience. As the seasons change, the landscape transforms; spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers warm hiking days, and autumn paints the mountains in vibrant hues of gold and crimson. This natural spectacle, combined with the area’s upscale amenities and rich natural beauty, makes Devils Postpile National Monument a must-visit destination for any discerning traveler.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.3
- Annual visitors
- 100 000
- Established year
- 1911
Top 3 Facts about Devils Postpile National Monument
The columnar basalt formation was created when a lava flow, approximately 122 meters deep, cooled and cracked into multi-sided columns, some of which are up to 1.1 meters in diameter and 18 meters tall. Glaciers later scoured the surface of these columns.
In this Sierra Nevada enclave, pine and fir trees dominate the landscape, while wildflowers like crimson columbine and giant red Indian paintbrush add vibrant color. Mule deer graze on manzanita and willow, while pine martens, agile tree climbers, raise their young in hollow tree nests. Black bears and chipmunks inhabit the forests, and eagles soar overhead. The area’s diverse habitats, including meadows and riparian corridors, support a rich array of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
In the heart of the Sierra Nevada, towering columns of basalt, up to 60 feet high, stand in striking symmetry, a testament to the geological wonders formed by cooling lava around 100,000 years ago. Nearby, the 101-foot Rainbow Falls cascades down, its mist creating a vibrant rainbow when the sun is overhead, set against the backdrop of pristine mountain scenery and the crystal-clear waters of the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in summer to avoid snowy trails. Take the mandatory shuttle bus from Reds Meadow Valley. Plan a few days for hiking trails like the John Muir Trail and Rainbow Falls. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as options are limited. Stop by the visitor center at shuttle stop 6 for maps and restrooms. Wear sturdy shoes for rocky terrain and take regular breaks. Enjoy the scenic views and unique basalt formations.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof bag. Bring a map, GPS, first aid kit, and water purification tablets. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and bear-resistant containers. Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and a headlamp.
Respect Wildlife
Tread lightly on fragile habitats, avoid disturbing wildlife, and stay on designated trails to preserve the unique flora and fauna. Respect seasonal closures and weather conditions to minimize impact. Leave the area as you found it, or better.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, exercise caution near ledges and water, and check weather conditions and park alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities. Be aware of fire restrictions and follow all safety signs.
Seasons
In late spring, from May to June, experience blooming shooting stars and swelling rivers amid lingering snow. Temperatures range from 40°F to 60°F. Road closures are common, but the mandatory shuttle bus starts in late June, making early visits serene and uncrowded.
Summer brings warm temperatures (60s-70s°F) and dry conditions, ideal for hiking to unique basalt columns and 101-foot Rainbow Falls. Mandatory shuttles operate from June to October. Enjoy scenic trails and pristine mountain scenery during the peak summer months.
Experience autumn’s vibrant hues and crisp temperatures (40s-60s°F) amidst eight miles of trails. Join National Public Lands Day in September for free admission and volunteer opportunities, surrounded by stunning scenery and diverse outdoor activities. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a serene fall escape.
Experience the serene beauty of winter from December to April, with temperatures often below 32°F. Snowshoe or cross-country ski through pristine landscapes, but be cautious of avalanches and closed roads. For seasoned adventurers only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Devils Postpile National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Devils Postpile National Monument, it is best to stay in Mammoth Lakes, a town located near the monument and offering the closest accommodations and access to the site. The Mammoth Lakes/Yosemite Airport is also nearby, making it a convenient base for your visit.
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Dogs must be on a leash at all times within the monument, including in parking lots, at trailheads, and in campgrounds. They can also be on a leash or under voice command in the surrounding national forest. Leashes are mandatory for dogs riding the shuttle buses as well.
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During the summer months, parking is not available inside the monument; visitors must use a mandatory shuttle bus from the Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge. Exceptions include arriving before or after shuttle hours, or having specific permits or needs. There is no parking for large vehicles like motorhomes, camper vans, or trailers within the monument during the shuttle operating season.
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The top attraction is the Devils Postpile formation, a rare example of columnar basalt with columns up to 60 feet high, protected since 1911 by President William Howard Taft. This formation is one of the world’s finest examples of its kind and is a key reason for the monument’s establishment. Additionally, the 101-foot high Rainbow Falls is another major attraction.