Devils Postpile National Monument: What to See & How to Visit

April 08, 2026

Encompassing the Devils Postpile formation, Rainbow Falls and acres of stunning mountain scenery, Devils Postpile National Monument is a Mammoth Lakes must-see.

The natural landmark is typically open from mid-June through mid-October (weather permitting) and attracts view-seekers, hikers, fisherman and wildlife-watchers.

What to See at Devils Postpile National Monument

  • Devils Postpile basalt columns
  • Rainbow Falls
  • San Joaquin River trails
  • Reds Meadow area

What Is Devils Postpile?

Resembling a tidy lumber pile created by giants, Devils Postpile’s 60-foot basalt columns were formed when lava erupted in the valley nearly 100,000 years ago and filled the area to a depth of 400 feet. Then, glaciers overrode the fractured mass of lava and quarried away one side of the postpile about 10,000 years ago, exposing and polishing a sheer wall of columns and enhancing the appearance of the natural hexagonal structure.

trees tower over the striking basalt columns at the Devils Postpile

Hiking, Fishing & Other Things To Do

Visitors can hike 8 miles of trails at Devils Postpile National Monument and can also choose to venture outside the landmark’s boundaries to the Ansel Adams Wilderness. To hike Devils Postpile, take the half-mile trail to the base, then continue uphill to the formation’s summit for incredible views. Or ramble the 2.5-mile route from the ranger station to 101-foot Rainbow Falls, the perfect spot for a mid-afternoon picnic.

Anglers will find great trout fishing on the San Joaquin River, a designated Wild Trout River. Prime fishing spots can be found on the river’s banks near the parking lot and further past Soda Springs Meadow. Pick up all the gear you need from a Mammoth Lakes fishing outfitter, and be sure to get your California fishing license.

Devils Postpile is home to more than 100 species of birds and many mammals, including black bears, pine martens, mule deer, and coyotes—making the area an excellent place for wildlife watching. Dusk and dawn are the best times to see wild creatures; plan accordingly and remember to view them from a distance for your own safety.

How to Visit Devils Postpile National Monument

To access Devils Postpile and Reds Meadow Valley, you must take the mandatory shuttle as private vehicles are not permitted on the road into Reds Meadow. You may purchase tickets from the departure point at the Mammoth Adventure Center. You can get more details, including ticket cost and hours of operation, on the NPS website.

The shuttle runs from the Mammoth Adventure Center and provides access to Devils Postpile, Rainbow Falls, and surrounding trailheads. Shuttle operations usually begin in late June and run through early fall, depending on weather and road conditions.

Outside of shuttle season, visitors may be able to drive into the area, but access is still subject to conditions and restrictions.

To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early, bring water and sun protection, and allow time to explore both Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls.

Visit Mammoth
Author
Visit Mammoth
Unreal. There is no better way to describe Mammoth Lakes, California. A place so majestic that breathtaking views surround you in every direction. The staff at Mammoth Lakes Tourism is committed to stewardship, education, providing the ultimate visitor experience, and keeping the Real Unreal.
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