Have you ever seen columnar basalt? The Devils Postpile towers majestically at 60 feet and is one of the world's most impressive examples. This monument protects the Devils Postpile formation, Rainbow Falls, and wonderful views of high mountain scenery. Modern-day studies have shown they were formed by cooling lava flow that cracked into columns. The air is clear and cool, and there is plenty to explore in this pristine area near Mammoth Lake.
Devils Postpile National Monument is a gorgeous area of eastern California away from the usual big city life. If you are going to explore this remote area in style, an RV would be a wonderful way to go. It allows you the flexibility to stop and rest or spend the night more conveniently without needing to drive back into town. If you do not own an RV, you can always find exactly what will fit your needs through RVshare.
Devils Postpile National Monument is an awe-inspiring area of the California forests. You will fill your days hiking around to see rock formations, lakes, and rivers. Enjoy some fishing, get some good pictures, and look forward to seeing a wide variety of birds and wildlife.
Hiking TrailsThe Pacific Crest Trail in its entirety spans from Canada to Mexico, but the section here is also part of the John Muir Trail. It is a beautiful area, including carved lakes and spectacular views of the nearby mountain ranges.
Agnew Meadows Trailhead, Agnew Meadows Road, California
14 Miles Round Trip
Moderate
The trail follows the lakeshore and then cuts through a pine forest. It is an easy walk for families, kids, and beginning mountain bikers. You will enjoy bridges and stream crossings, picnic areas, and sandy beach access where you can see the Mammoth Crest.
Starts at Horseshoe Lake
1.7 Miles
Easy
SightseeingThe beautiful Rainbow Falls are the highest of the middle fork on the San Joaquin River at 101 feet tall. You will have to hike in a little more than two miles, but the scenery is worth the walk. If you catch the light exactly right, you can see a rainbow forming in the mist of the waterfall. The best time to see it is in the middle of the day.
End CA-203, west Mammoth Lakes
The Hole in the Wall is an area well known by ski enthusiasts in the Mammoth Lake area. It is a natural formation of lava rock with an arch tunnel and can only be conquered by the most advanced skiers. This is not a place to visit alone or if you are a beginner.
Mammoth Lakes, California
MuseumsThe Mammoth Ski Museum is a fascinating break from hiking or skiing. This museum contains exhibits telling the history of skiing and celebrating the sport. You can check out the Pioneer Theater, which features daily shows. The museum also features the Beeker Collection of over 10,000 historic pieces, including 4,000 works of literature, 250 photos, and over 400 original paintings.
100 College Way, Mammoth Lakes
The Hayden Cabin was built in the 1920s and now contains exhibits of local history and memorabilia. There are great outdoor exhibits that will transport you back in time as you wander around. The cabin was built by a famous mapmaker named Emmet Hayden. It is still a stunning site after all these years. Take a tour of the inside exhibits and learn about the history of the area.
5489 Sherwin Creek Road, Mammoth Lakes
The Consolidated Gold Mine is an outdoor area you can hike around to explore the history of gold mining in a semi-ghost town built in the early 1920s. Many buildings are grouped together in a small loop, easy enough to explore with the kids.
Coldwater Road, Mammoth Lakes
Nearby Shops and RestaurantsThe McCoy Station is a quality place to take a break and have a healthy lunch. On a cold morning, you can enjoy pastries and hot chocolate. They serve a variety of pizza, soup, and salad. You can also enjoy chili and garlic fries.
10001 Minaret Road, Mammoth Lakes
Skadi Restaurant gives you a modern experience where you can enjoy quality fine dining while you marvel at the gorgeous mountain views. This is an intimate dining experience with only 10 tables in the restaurant and four seats at the chef's counter. Most dinners are expected to last at least two hours. The menu reflects the chef's Norwegian heritage and includes house-smoked trout and Canadian duck breast with spätzli lingonberries.
94 Berner Street, Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Sports will help you get ready for any adventure on the mountain or surrounding area. They have the latest in clothing, equipment, and accessories for men, women, and children. The knowledgeable and passionate staff are eager to help you find just what you need.
10001 Minaret Road #1200, Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Jewelers offers a stunning assortment of jewelry, including wedding bands and engagement rings. They also repair watches and jewelry, as well as buy scrap gold.
437 Old Mammoth Rd, Suite 150, Mammoth Lakes
The Mammoth Fun Shop is full of fun toys and entertainment for "kids" of all ages. They offer puzzles, board games, stuffed animals, yoyos, spirographs, and more. While you are there, you can also visit their ice cream shop for premium ice cream, milkshakes, and sundaes. On the weekend, they offer home-brewed root beer floats.
3163 Main Street, Mammoth Lakes
Devils Postpile is about a 40-minute drive from the Mammoth Lakes/Yosemite Airport. To travel by RV, however, you can drive south from Reno, NV, on U.S. Highway 395 for about three hours to State Route 203. Go about 10 miles west from there and then another eight miles on a steep mountain road. The road is a single lane for about three miles.
The monument usually opens in mid-June, depending on the weather. The season often lasts until some time in October when the snow comes. During that season, it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A mandatory shuttle brings visitors to the monument.
Devils Postpile Access Road Mammoth Lakes, CA, 93546
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Adult) $8.0
Entry fee is $8 for individuals 16 years and older.
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Youth) $4.0
Entry fee is $4 for individuals ages 3-15 years old.
Devils Postpile National Monument is a spectacular view that is worth the trip. The park offers almost 800 acres to explore where you can enjoy the geology while camping, fishing, hiking, or horseback riding. Be sure to bring your camera because this is an area you will not want to forget. Making the trip in an RV brings along all the accommodations of home.
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