Basalt Columns & Waterfalls at Devils Postpile National Monument

For me, as far as Hiking is concerned, DevilsPostpile is the jewel of Mammoth Lakes. Lots of Hiking available during most of the season. A bit more difficult during wintertime, and nearby fires that both cut off your view and affects those with breathing problems. Be safe and remember your Hiking abilities and equipment.

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail.

Such a beautiful and easy hike to do! Definitely recommend going all the way around and seeing everything on the way. Easy for any one of all ages and even dog friendly!

Devils Postpile National Monument was one of the most unique and memorable places we visited near Mammoth Lakes. It’s an incredible natural formation and definitely worth adding to your Mammoth Lakes itinerary. The main attraction is the Devils Postpile, a spectacular wall of basalt columns formed by volcanic activity and natural cooling. The columns are remarkably uniform and closely packed together, creating an almost man-made appearance. Seeing the formation in person really gives you an appreciation for how powerful natural geological processes can be. The hike to the Postpile was enjoyable and surrounded by beautiful Sierra Nevada scenery. The trail takes you through a peaceful forest with tall pine trees, mountain views, and the sounds of nature along the way. It’s a very different experience from simply driving to a viewpoint—you get to actually walk through the landscape and experience the area. The basalt columns themselves are amazing to see up close. The shapes, patterns, and different heights of the columns make the formation fascinating, and the scale is much more impressive when you’re standing right next to it. The top of the formation is especially interesting because you can see the distinctive polygonal patterns created as the rock cooled. We visited with family and found it to be a great outdoor experience. Kids can enjoy the hike and exploring the unusual rock formation, while adults can appreciate the geology and scenery. It’s a nice combination of education, adventure, and nature without requiring an extremely long outing. The surrounding area is equally beautiful. The forest, mountains, and nearby San Joaquin River make the entire area feel peaceful and untouched. If you have enough time, there are additional trails and viewpoints in the surrounding area, so you can make the visit as short or as adventurous as you want. One thing to keep in mind is that access can be seasonal and transportation arrangements can vary, so it’s important to check current conditions before visiting. The elevation is also significant, so taking your time and staying hydrated is a good idea, especially if you’re not accustomed to mountain elevations. Overall, Devils Postpile is a must-see attraction around Mammoth Lakes. The combination of unusual geology, beautiful hiking trails, towering trees, and mountain scenery makes it unlike many other places in the area.