Devils Postpile National Monument

Devils Postpile National Monument is located in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains of California, near Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite National Park. It encompasses 798 acres of stunning natural beauty. The monument gets its name from its most famous geological feature, the Devils Postpile, a unique rock formation of basalt columns that stand up to 60 feet tall.

The historical background of the area dates back thousands of years when it was inhabited by Native American tribes. Later, in the late 1800s, local entrepreneur David Cowan played a crucial role in protecting the Devils Postpile from being blasted for the development of hydroelectric power. Thanks to his efforts, President William Howard Taft declared the area a national monument in 1911, making it one of the first federally protected areas in the United States.

Visitors to Devils Postpile National Monument have a plethora of activities to enjoy. One of the most popular things to do is hiking the trails that wind through the monument, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail to the top of the Devils Postpile provides an up-close encounter with the unique rock formation, allowing visitors to marvel at its hexagonal columns.

Another must-see attraction within the monument is Rainbow Falls. This majestic waterfall cascades over a 101-foot drop and creates a picturesque sight, especially during the spring snowmelt when its volume is at its peak. The trail leading to Rainbow Falls is a moderately strenuous hike but is well worth the effort.

For those who enjoy fishing, nearby destinations such as the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River and the tranquil waters of the high Sierra lakes offer excellent opportunities to cast a line. Camping is also a popular activity, with several campgrounds available near the monument, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the area's natural splendor.

Devils Postpile National Monument is also conveniently located near other popular destinations. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the world-renowned Yosemite National Park, with its breathtaking granite cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and numerous hiking trails. The town of Mammoth Lakes, known for its world-class skiing in the winter and vibrant outdoor activities in the summer, is also nearby, providing ample opportunities for recreation, dining, and shopping.

Overall, Devils Postpile National Monument offers a unique blend of geological wonders, historical significance, and outdoor recreation. Whether hiking to the top of the postpile, admiring the beauty of Rainbow Falls, or exploring the surrounding areas, visitors are bound to be captivated by the natural splendor and rich history of this remarkable national monument.

Devils Postpile National Monument is nestled within the scenic Sierra Nevada mountain range in the eastern part of California. Located in Madera County, just northeast of the town of Mammoth Lakes, this natural wonder is an enchanting display of towering basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. Surrounded by the breathtaking wilderness of the Inyo National Forest, the monument is situated at an elevation of approximately 7,500 feet above sea level. Its picturesque location grants visitors access to a diverse array of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and enjoying the pristine beauty of the area's alpine lakes and forests.

Address & Contact

Devils Postpile Access Road
Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
Driving Directions
Phone: 7609342289
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Devils Postpile National Monument is during the months of June, July, and September. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities with average maximum temperatures ranging from 71°F to 78°F and average minimum temperatures ranging from 41°F to 51°F. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during these months is relatively low, ranging from 0.4 in to 0.8 in. These timeframes also coincide with higher average visitor counts, indicating a moderate level of crowds to enjoy the monument's beauty.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Devils Postpile National Monument are: Astronomy Stargazing Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Biking Road Biking Camping Car or Front Country Camping Hiking Front-Country Hiking Fishing Horse Trekking Horseback Riding

Topics

Learn about these topics at Devils Postpile National Monument: Animals Geology Groundwater Freshwater Springs Night Sky Fire River and Riparian Trails Wilderness Watersheds Climate Change Forests and Woodlands Mountains Natural Sounds Astronomy Scenic Views Waterfalls Wetlands Marshes Swamps Coniferous Forests Volcanoes

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 can help you plan your adventure at Devils Postpile. The ranger station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its association with changes in national park planning and development from the late 1930s to the start of World War II in 1941. The simple two-room cabin was constructed in 1941 from lumber salvaged from the demolished Sentinel Hotel.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Devils Postpile Ranger Station.

Campsites within or near Devils Postpile National Monument

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Devils Postpile National Monument

Tamarack Lodge and Resort

Located in Mammoth Lakes, Tamarack Lodge and Resort is on a lake, a 1-minute drive from Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort and 9 minutes from Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center. The front desk is staffed during limited hours.
Address: 163 Twin Lakes Rd, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link

Snowcreek 754 Phase V

When you stay at this condo in Mammoth Lakes, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Sierra Star Golf Course and Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort. Featured amenities include laundry facilities, a library, and ATM/banking services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 754 Fairway Circle Unit 754, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link

Snowcreek #967 3 Bedroom Townhouse

When you stay at this vacation home in Mammoth Lakes, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Sierra Star Golf Course and Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 967 Fairway Circle, #967, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link

Snowcreek #991 3 Bedroom Condo

When you stay at this condo in Mammoth Lakes, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Sierra Star Golf Course and Edison Theater. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 991 Fairway Circle, Unit #991, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link

Snowcreek #760 4 Bedroom Condo

When you stay at this condo in Mammoth Lakes, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Sierra Star Golf Course and Edison Theater. Guests will find features like an area shuttle.
Address: 760 Fairway Circle, Unit #760, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link

Snowcreek #967 3 Bedroom Townhouse

When you stay at this vacation home in Mammoth Lakes, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Sierra Star Golf Course and Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 967 Fairway Circle, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link

Snowcreek #991 3 Bedroom Townhouse

When you stay at this vacation home in Mammoth Lakes, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Sierra Star Golf Course and Edison Theater. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 991 Fairway Circle, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link

Snowcreek #760 4 Bedroom Condo

When you stay at this condo in Mammoth Lakes, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Sierra Star Golf Course and Edison Theater. Guests will find features like Internet access.
Address: 760 Fairway Circle, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link

Snowcreek V #774 3 Bedroom Condo

When you stay at this condo in Mammoth Lakes, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Sierra Star Golf Course and Edison Theater. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 774 Fairway Circle, Unit #774, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link

Snowcreek #969 2 Bedroom Condo

When you stay at this condo in Mammoth Lakes, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Sierra Star Golf Course and Edison Theater. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 969 Fairway Circle, Unit #969, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Web: Link