Devils Postpile National Monument
Marvel at hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient lava and glaciers, with a stunning waterfall nearby.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Devils Postpile National Monument
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marvel at hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient lava and glaciers, with a stunning waterfall nearby.
"Mind blown by natural symmetry of these formations!"
Check Road & Shuttle Status
Road access is seasonal. Always verify shuttle schedules and road openings before you go! :informationdeskperson:
Book Shuttle Tickets Early
During peak season, shuttle tickets sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Devils Postpile
Main formation
Towering hexagonal basalt columns, a rare geological wonder formed by cooling lava and glacial action.
Rainbow Falls
Short hike from Devils Postpile
A stunning 101-foot waterfall that creates a rainbow in its mist on sunny days.
Columnar Basalt Formation
Devils Postpile
Marvel at the near-perfect symmetry of these natural pillars, a testament to ancient geological forces.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seasonal Access is Key
Shuttle System is Your Friend
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Road & Shuttle Status
Road access is seasonal. Always verify shuttle schedules and road openings before you go! :informationdeskperson:
Book Shuttle Tickets Early
During peak season, shuttle tickets sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Hike to Rainbow Falls
Don't miss the short hike to Rainbow Falls; it's a beautiful payoff after seeing the Postpile.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but involve walking. Good footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Road & Shuttle Status
Road access is seasonal. Always verify shuttle schedules and road openings before you go! :informationdeskperson:
Book Shuttle Tickets Early
During peak season, shuttle tickets sell out. Book online in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Hike to Rainbow Falls
Don't miss the short hike to Rainbow Falls; it's a beautiful payoff after seeing the Postpile.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but involve walking. Good footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Limited services inside the monument. Pack essentials for your hike and exploration. :water_buffalo:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Devils Postpile National Monument for its unique geological formations and the stunning beauty of Rainbow Falls. The ease of access via the shuttle system and the well-maintained trails are frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors note the seasonal access and the need for shuttle tickets as planning considerations.
"Currently road under construction so only open Saturday and Sunday and only for a couple more weeks for the year. It will be terrific once done. Most things closed or limited but Postpile walk/hike open. As well as some wilderness areas. High altitude so hiking/walking needs to take that I to consideration. It was difficult for me to hike to top of Postpile."
Alexandra Mathiasen
"Very doable hike with sweeping views. My kids had fun and completed hike with little complaining. They enjoyed and so did I. If you get off at the bus stop, the ranger station has good information for you and there is a water fountain and restrooms. If you're continuing on to Rainbow Falls make sure you have a lot of water and sunscreen/hat."
Ashley Gabriel
"Don’t Miss Devils Postpile!
If you’re going to Mammoth Mountain or Mammoth Lakes, be sure to stop at Devils Postpile. The tall, straight rock columns and the fallen pieces that look like giant broken pencils are truly amazing and one of a kind. You’ll enjoy a beautiful, mostly easy walk with great views all around. It’s a perfect example of California’s natural beauty and diversity. Totally worth the visit!"
Azy Shine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
During the operating season (typically July-October), private vehicle access is restricted. You'll need to take a shuttle from the Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center. The shuttle makes several stops, with stop #6 being the closest to Devils Postpile. The drive to the shuttle departure point from Mammoth Lakes is about 35-40 minutes.
Generally, no, during the peak season. Private vehicles are usually prohibited to reduce congestion. The shuttle system is the primary way to access the monument.
Devils Postpile National Monument is typically closed in May due to snow. The road and monument usually don't open until July. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most current opening dates.
The shuttle from Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center typically costs around $15 per day per person. This fee grants you access to the shuttle and all its stops within the Reds Meadow Valley.
The road into the monument is narrow and winding, with limited pull-offs. Driving an RV or pulling a trailer can be challenging. Drive slowly and be prepared for tight turns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't an entrance fee for the monument itself, you will likely need to purchase shuttle tickets to access it during the operating season. It's highly recommended to book these in advance online.
Devils Postpile National Monument is a natural monument, so it's accessible when the road is open. However, the shuttle service operates on a specific schedule during the peak season. Always check the NPS website for current operating hours and dates.
There is no direct entrance fee to Devils Postpile National Monument. However, you will need to pay for the shuttle service to reach the monument during the summer months.
In some cases, it might be possible to hike into Devils Postpile when the road is closed, but it's a very long and strenuous trek, often over snow. It's generally not recommended or feasible for most visitors. Always check with the park service for current conditions and advice.
Information on specific discounts for the shuttle is not widely available. It's best to check the official Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center or NPS website for any potential discount programs or passes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike from the shuttle stop to the Devils Postpile formation is short and easy, only about half a mile. It's a well-maintained trail. Many visitors also extend their hike to see Rainbow Falls, which is a moderate 5.1-mile round trip.
Yes, there is an accessible trail to Devils Postpile. Renovations have been made to include switchbacks that allow for wheelchair access to the monument.
Devils Postpile is a unique formation of columnar basalt, created when lava cooled slowly and fractured into hexagonal columns. Glacial action then exposed these columns.
Yes, there are restrooms available in the Reds Meadow Valley area, including near the Devils Postpile shuttle stop and at campgrounds.
Besides the hike to Rainbow Falls, there are numerous other trails in the Reds Meadow Valley, offering opportunities for longer day hikes or backpacking.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Devils Postpile National Monument. You'll find dining options in Mammoth Lakes or at the Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center before or after your visit.
Yes, picnicking is a great option! There are designated picnic areas in the Reds Meadow Valley. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean.
While there are water sources in the area, it's not guaranteed to be potable. It's best to bring your own water supply or a reliable water filter.
📸 📸 Photography
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the textures of the basalt columns. For Rainbow Falls, midday can create a nice rainbow effect if the sun is out.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Postpile and the falls. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures at Rainbow Falls, especially in lower light.
Drones are generally prohibited in National Parks and Monuments to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the official NPS regulations before flying a drone.
The Devils Postpile formation itself, the view from the top of the Postpile trail, and Rainbow Falls are the primary photographic subjects.
Yes, you can get quite close to the basalt columns to photograph their intricate hexagonal shapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The hike to Rainbow Falls is also manageable for families, offering a beautiful reward. Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as services are limited. Consider bringing a carrier for very young children on the Rainbow Falls hike. The shuttle system is convenient, but ensure you book tickets in advance to avoid long waits.
🚶 Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Explore the various trail options available from the shuttle stops. Consider a backpacking trip if you have the time and permits. Always be prepared for changing mountain weather and carry essential safety gear.
🚗 Road Trippers
Tips for road trippers: Plan your visit around the shuttle schedule, as private vehicle access is limited. Combine your visit with other attractions in the Mammoth Lakes area. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for mountain driving.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Devils Postpile
+1 The forces of the Ice Age later played a crucial role; glaciers scoured the landscape, stripping away the outer layers of the lava flow and exposing the impressive columns we see today. This formation is considered one of the world's finest examples of columnar basalt, a phenomenon found in various locations globally, such as Iceland and Giant's Causeway.
+1 The near-perfect symmetry and tight fitting of the columns create a visually stunning natural mosaic, making it a must-see for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. +1Visitors can walk along the base of the Postpile to admire the scale and precision of these natural pillars. The short, accessible trail makes this geological wonder easily explorable for most visitors.
Hiking to Rainbow Falls
The trail winds through scenic terrain, offering glimpses of the surrounding Sierra Nevada landscape. As you approach Rainbow Falls, you'll hear the roar of the water before you see it. The falls themselves cascade 101 feet, and on sunny days, the mist creates a vibrant rainbow, hence the name.
This hike is often combined with a visit to Devils Postpile, as the shuttle stops provide access to both attractions. It's a popular choice for those looking to experience more of the natural beauty within the Reds Meadow Valley. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Navigating the Reds Meadow Valley
+1The primary mode of transportation into the valley is the shuttle bus system operated by Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center. This shuttle makes multiple stops, allowing visitors to access Devils Postpile, Rainbow Falls, various trailheads, and campgrounds. Purchasing shuttle tickets in advance is highly recommended, as they can sell out, especially on weekends and holidays.
For those who prefer to explore on foot or by bicycle, there are opportunities to hike or bike into the valley when the road is open to private vehicles, or even during shuttle season if you're up for a longer trek. Always check the official National Park Service (NPS) website for the most up-to-date information on road status, shuttle schedules, and any potential closures.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit