Mammoth Lakes, California · Madera County
Established in 1911 by presidential proclamation, Devils Postpile National Monument protects and preserves the Devils Postpile formation, the 101-foot high Rainbow Falls, and pristine mountain scenery. The formation is a rare sight in the geologic world and ranks as one of the world's finest examples of columnar basalt…
Established in 1911 by presidential proclamation, Devils Postpile National Monument protects and preserves the Devils Postpile formation, the 101-foot high Rainbow Falls, and pristine mountain scenery. The formation is a rare sight in the geologic world and ranks as one of the world's finest examples of columnar basalt. Its' columns tower up to 60 feet and display a striking symmetry.
Shuttle Bus: Most visitors must park at the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and use the mandatory shuttle. The shuttle bus operates from mid-June through the Wednesday after Labor Day. By car: From U.S. Highway 395, drive 10 miles west on S.R. 203 to Minaret Vista and then another 8 miles on a paved, steep mountain road. Please note that this road is single lane for approximately 3 miles. By plane: The closest commercial airport is the Mammoth Lakes/Yosemite Airport (MMH), located on U.S. Highway 395.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Heading to Devils Postpile National Monument? A few things to know before you go:
Photo: Joshua EarleCalifornia's longest mapped hiking trails, ranked by distance with notes on what makes each route worth the commitment.
Photo: Sergei AkulichSteep is hard. These are the ten California trails with the most total elevation gain — quad-burners earned by hard climbing.
Photo: Maddi BazzoccoTen gentle, well-marked California trails perfect for first-time hikers, families, or recovery days.
Photo: Holly MandarichCalifornia's ten hardest hikes — expert difficulty, big mileage, or serious exposure. Reserved for experienced hikers.
Photo: Diego LozanoFederal parks and recreation areas in California ranked by what they actually offer hikers and campers, not just popularity.
Photo: Joshua EarleCalifornia's best hikes to named waterfalls — from short family-friendly viewpoints to all-day cascade chasing.