Devils Postpile

Overview

The Devils Postpile 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 60 feet high and display an unusual symmetry. Another wonder is in store just downstream from the Postpile at Rainbow Falls, once called “a gem unique and worthy of its name.” When the sun is overhead, a bright rainbow highlights the spectacular falls.

Devils Postpile landscape is a reflection of fire and ice. The eruption and uniform cooling of basalt lava created an impressive wall of columns. Later a glacial event exposed the columns and polished smooth the top of this formation enhancing the pattern of hexagons that are a result of the mineral composition of the lava.

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Getting There

Accessibility is limited in this remote area. The campground has one accessible campsite and there are two accessible restrooms available. The day-use area includes accessible picnic tables with an accessible firering nearby. The Ranger Station also meets ADA standards.

The trail to the Postpile is difficult for those with disabilities and those visitors using wheelchairs. The trail to Rainbow Falls is not accessible.

The mandatory shuttle bus, which runs from 7:00 am to 7:30 pm, is covered by this fee. Tickets are available at the Shuttle Bus Terminal at the Mammoth Mountain Lodge Gondola Building. The shuttle bus runs from mid-June until mid to late September.

Trail

Devils Postpile: a short walk (0.4m) to the base of this unique geologic formation. A short loop trail at the Postpile leads you to the tops of these vertical columns.
Rainbow Falls: walk 1 mile from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead or 2.5 miles from the Ranger Station to visit 101-foot waterfall
John Muir Trail: this trail offers great views of the Postpile from the west side of the river and is easily accessible from the ranger Station.

Red Tape

$7 / adult per day - Day
$7 / camper for duration - - Days
$4 / child per day - Day

Ranger Station open from late June until early October, 9am - 4pm

Wilderness permits are required for all overnight trips into the backcountry. Contact the Mammoth Ranger Station at (760) 924-5500.

When To Climb

Summer season only. Weather permitting, Devils Postpile will open on June 29, 2005. It may close at any time after October 15th if a snowstorm occurs that accumulates on the road. Otherwise, the road will remain open until October 31 at 7pm, when it closes for the season.

Camping

There are 6 campgrounds in the area totaling over 180 sites. All are first-come, first-served; all close during winter. The campground in the monument, administered by the National Park Service, has 21 sites. Each site costs $14 per night, with a maximum stay of two weeks. Bear-resistant food boxes are provided. No reservations, no hookups, and no pull-through sites for RVs.

Mountain Conditions

From June to August, highs remain in the 70's and 80's. September and October bring cooler temperatures and possible snow showers, so come prepared.

External Links

• Devils Postpile
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• National Park Service
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Images

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