Devils Postpile National Monument in California 2025

These unique symmetrical columns created by the forces of nature attract people from all over the world

Best time: mid-June–October

Created over a hundred thousand years ago, these basalt columns still impress visitors. Over 400 symmetrical columns, towering up to 597 ае (182 m), are a famous geological phenomenon found only in a few places around the globe.

Devils Postpile National Monument Formation

Devils Postpile is a completely unique formation created by the power of fire and ice. When a large amount of lava flowed down the Upper Soda Springs area it met a powerful glacier. Then, the lava began cooling, turning into solid rock. Due to expansion, the rock cracked, creating vertical joints. These cracks formed naturally into hexagonal columns. Actually, the columns were much higher from what we can observe today. Powerful erosive forces have been shaping them for tens of thousands of years.

The Devil's Postpile National Monument has three geologically unique features, among which are the lack of horizontal jointing, their symmetry, and highly visible glacial striations and glacial polish. It officially became a National Monument in 1911, and today, it welcomes visitors from all over the world. The park offers lots of active hiking with amazing views and beautiful natural formations.

Best Time to Visit the Devils Postpile National Monument

Access to the Devils Postpile National Monument is closed for winter and usually opens in mid-June. For those planning a trip in June, September, or October, we recommend checking the official website for up to date weather and closure information. The monument closes temporarily when winter weather arrives early.

Opening Hours

Devils Postpile National Monument and the Reds Meadow Valley normally operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week, during the operating season (approximately June to October).

Admission and Permits

Devils Postpile National Monument requires permits for specific activities to ensure the protection of its natural and cultural resources. Here's a breakdown of the permit requirements:

Filming and Photography: A $50 application fee applies.
Weddings: Subject to a $50 application fee.
First Amendment Activities: No application fee is required.
Public Assemblies and Meetings: Incur a $50 application fee.
Scattering of Ashes: No application fee.
Educational Groups: Groups traveling in vehicles longer than 25 feet require a permit; no application fee is charged.
Fishing Guides: Currently, the fee is temporarily waived.
Commercial Tours: A $50 application fee applies.
Photography Workshops: Subject to a $50 application fee.

Camping

The monument's 20-site campground has been closed since 2016 due to infrastructure repairs and safety concerns stemming from severe winters. The National Park Service is evaluating options to enhance recreational river access and address the needs of the approximately 135,000 annual visitors. Given the availability of nearby U.S. Forest Service campgrounds, the focus is on improving day-use facilities within the monument.

Shuttle Bus

For those planning to use the Reds Meadow Shuttle Bus, it typically operates from mid- to late June through Labor Day. Visitors not meeting specific exceptions are required to use the shuttle during its operating hours. Outside of these hours, a standard amenity fee of $10 per vehicle applies at the Minaret Vista Entrance Station.