Devils Postpile National Monument
Devils Postpile National Monument
Attractions and Places To See in Devils Postpile National Monument - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see in Devils Postpile National Monument include unique geological formations and significant natural features. Located near Mammoth Mountain in Eastern California, this monument is known for its columnar basalt formations, such as the Devils Postpile, and spectacular waterfalls. The area also holds cultural significance as a historical trade route for American Indian inhabitants and provides access to vast wilderness areas. Visitors can explore a diverse landscape of rivers, meadows, and trails.
Best attractions and places to see in Devils Postpile National Monument
- The most popular attractions is Rainbow Falls, a waterfall that plunges 101 feet on the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River. It is known for the rainbows that frequently appear in its mist on sunny days.
- Another must-see spot is Devils Postpile, a natural monument featuring a cliff of vertical, volcanic basalt columns. These columns, up to 60 feet high, were formed by ancient lava flows and glacial activity.
- Visitors also love Middle Fork San Joaquin River, a river that provides lush meadows and diverse scenery. It offers opportunities for fishing and enjoying the natural environment.
- Devils Postpile National Monument is known for geological formations, waterfalls, and scenic river areas. The monument offers a variety of natural attractions to see and explore.
- The attractions in Devils Postpile National Monument are appreciated by the komoot community, with 12 upvotes and 18 photos shared.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
Rainbow Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
It is located in Devils Postpile National Monument near Mammoth Mountain. The national monument protects Devil's Postpile, an unusual rock formation of columnar basalt. Devils Postpile National Monument encompasses 798 acres. In addition, the John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail merge into one trail as they pass through the monument. Excluding a small developed area containing the monument headquarters, visitor center and a campground; the National Monument lies within the borders of the Ansel Adams Wilderness.
About 75,000 years ago, lava erupted from a vent just east of the present-day Falls. The eruption occurred in two stages. The first pulse of lava flowed about 1 kilometre (0.62 mi) westward and pooled in the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin drainage. The second pulse of lava insulated the first, allowing it to cool slowly and to fracture vertically. The layer above cooled under different conditions and fractured horizontally. Geologists describe these rocks as platy rhyodacite and are visible in the cliffs that surround Rainbow Falls.
As water rushes over the cliff, it erodes the vertically fractured rhyodacite more easily. A small cavern begins to form at the base of the Falls, and the overlying rock loses its support and collapses. This process, known as undercutting, causes the waterfall to recede slowly upstream. To date Rainbow Falls has retreated about 500 feet (150 m) due to undercutting.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_Falls_%28California%29
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devils_Postpile_National_Monument
nps.gov/depo/planyourvisit/nearbyattractions.htm
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Devils Postpile
Highlight • Natural Monument
The main attraction of the park is Devils Postpile, an approximately 100 meters wide and 30 meters high cliff of vertical, volcanic basalt columns, which have a very symmetrical, hexagonal shape.
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Iva Bell Hot Springs ⛲ backpacking hike from Devil's Postpile National Monument, via Rainbow Falls and Fish Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
Permits for Fish Creek AA14 must be obtained online or at Inyo Forest Service Visitor Centers upto 6 months in advance. If ordered online, must be picked up latest by 9 am on the day of the hike at the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center. (recreation.gov/entranceDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=72203&entranceId=315396)
The road to Reds Meadow and Devils Postpile is closed in winter. Backpackers visiting in winter must be prepared to ski, snow shoe or hike into the Reds Meadow Valley. Usually from the last week of June, vehicles can enter at night and be parked at the trailhead. However, during daytime hours one must park at the Adventure Center and take a paid shuttle bus (ca 30 min).
Mountain elevations in this area traditionally have ice and snow until late June or early July.
Fish Creek trail follows the general route of an old wagon trail. Starting near Reds Meadow Resort shuttle stop # 10 or the Rainbow Falls trailhead shuttle stop #8 the trail passes multiple junctions with the John Muir, Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls trails. The Fish Creek trail follows Crater Creek to the Fish Creek Valley. Beyond Iva Bell Hot Springs, the trail goes to Cascade Valley and eventually connects to the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails near Purple Lake or Tully Hole.
This is an active bear area; check food storage maps on the USFS Webpage for where you must use bear resistant food containers to secure food and trash. fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=20502&actid=51
If done as a sidetrip from the John Muir Trail near Reds Meadow, it is about 12 miles to Iva Bell with a drop of 1,500 ft and then a climb of 1,000. To rejoin JMT after the Springs, continue about 5 miles and climb 2,700 ft. The first section south of the JMT on Fish Creek Trail can be exposed and hot and passes thru a burn area. Total mileage is similar to staying on the JMT, but there is more elevation change.
There are at least 6 well maintained pools, and several others, created by visitors over the years to enjoy the water from the many hot sources on the slope at the end of the valley. Best way to find the Springs is to notice warmer runoff as it crosses Fish Creek Trail.
Do not camp right next to a hot spring pool.
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Middle Fork San Joaquin River
Highlight • River
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View of Devils Postpile
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tips from the Community
Devils Postpile National Monument is a United States national monument located near Mammoth Mountain in eastern California. The monument protects Devils Postpile, an unusual rock formation of columnar basalt, "all tightly and perfectly fitted together like a vast mosaic."
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High up on the Pacific Crest Trail you will enjoy a nice view of the Devils Postpile. There is also a side trail leading to it.
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The Devil's Postpile is a large cliff made of volcanic basalt columns. It is a very popular site, so there is a good possibility there will be others enjoying the site.
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Rainbow Falls is a 101-foot waterfall, which is the largest falls on the San Joaquin River. The falls are located a short distance off the Pacific Crest Trail.
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High up on the Pacific Crest Trail you will enjoy a nice view of the Devils Postpile. There is also side trail leading to it.
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The Devils Postpile National Monument, which is only open from mid-June to mid-October, was once part of the Yosemite National Park and was only placed under protection as an independent park in 1911. The main attraction of the park is Devils Postpile, an approximately 100 meters wide and 30 meters high cliff of vertical, volcanic basalt columns, which have a very symmetrical, hexagonal shape.
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The short connector trail to get from the actual location of the Devil's Postpile basalt columns back on the PCT/JMT crosses the river at a perfect fishing spot with an awesome view across the lush valley and the peaks beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most iconic natural landmarks to visit in Devils Postpile National Monument?
The monument is famous for its unique geological formations and stunning waterfalls. You absolutely must see Devils Postpile, a cliff of vertical, volcanic basalt columns up to 60 feet high, formed by ancient lava flows and glacial activity. Another spectacular sight is Rainbow Falls, a 101-foot waterfall on the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River, known for the vibrant rainbows that frequently appear in its mist on sunny days.
What is the best time of year to visit Devils Postpile National Monument?
The monument is typically open from mid-June to mid-October. During this period, you can access the main attractions and enjoy hiking. Winter access is limited to skis or snowshoes due to road closures.
Are there family-friendly activities or trails suitable for all ages?
Yes, Devils Postpile National Monument offers several options suitable for families. The trail to Rainbow Falls is a popular and rewarding hike. Many of the trails within the monument, including those leading to the Devils Postpile itself, are considered easy to moderate, making them accessible for families. During peak season, a mandatory shuttle bus operates, making access to the main sites convenient.
What historical or cultural sites can be found in the area?
Devils Postpile sits at a significant cultural crossroads, historically used as a trade route and for intercultural exchange by American Indian inhabitants for thousands of years. While many historic places are on the adjacent Inyo National Forest, the broader area includes sites like the Minaret Mine, Reds Meadow Guard Station, and the Devils Postpile Ranger Station, reflecting the region's economic and administrative history. Archaeological evidence of human crossings of the Sierra Crest dates back at least 7,500 years.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond exploring the main attractions, the area offers excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. You can find various routes, such as the easy 'Rainbow Falls via Devils Postpile Trail' for hiking or the 'Mammoth Scenic Ride' for cycling. For more detailed route information, explore the hiking guide or the cycling guide for Devils Postpile National Monument.
What is the shuttle bus and parking situation at Devils Postpile National Monument?
During the peak season (typically mid-June to mid-October), a mandatory shuttle bus operates to access the monument and its attractions. Visitors must park at the Adventure Center and take the paid shuttle. This system helps manage traffic and preserve the natural environment within the monument.
Can I go fishing in the monument?
Yes, the Middle Fork San Joaquin River, which flows through the monument, provides opportunities for fishing. Its lush meadows and diverse scenery make it a pleasant spot to enjoy the natural environment while fishing. Always check local regulations for fishing permits and seasons.
Are there any long-distance hiking trails that pass through the monument?
Yes, both the renowned John Muir Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail merge and pass directly through Devils Postpile National Monument. This offers access to the surrounding Ansel Adams Wilderness and High Sierra scenery, making the monument a popular starting point for many wilderness trips into the backcountry.
What unique geological features, besides the Postpile, can I observe?
Beyond the iconic columnar basalt of the Devils Postpile, you can observe the effects of glacial activity that exposed and polished the tops of these columns, revealing intricate mosaic-like patterns. The area also features the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River, which showcases diverse scenery including meanders, rapids, cascades, and the seasonal changes in Soda Springs Meadow, where gravel bars and soda springs become visible as summer progresses.
What do visitors enjoy most about Devils Postpile National Monument?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique geological formations like the Devils Postpile and the stunning Rainbow Falls. The opportunity to hike through diverse landscapes, enjoy the sounds of nature along the Middle Fork San Joaquin River, and experience the serene wilderness are frequently highlighted. The monument's natural beauty and accessible trails receive high praise from the komoot community.
Are there viewpoints to see the Devils Postpile from above?
Yes, there are spots along the Pacific Crest Trail that offer a nice view of the Devils Postpile from a higher vantage point. There is also a side trail that can lead you to these viewpoints, providing a different perspective of the unique basalt columns.
What should I know about wildlife viewing in the monument?
Devils Postpile National Monument is home to diverse flora and fauna. The Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River and Soda Springs Meadow provide valuable habitat. Visitors often have opportunities for wildlife watching, so keep an eye out for local species. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.
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Most popular attractions in Devils Postpile National Monument
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