Created over a hundred thousand years ago, these basalt columns still impress visitors. Over 400 symmetrical columns, towering up to 182 metres are a famous geological phenomenon, found only in a few places around the globe.
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 Devils 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 and camping spots with amazing views and beautiful natural formations.
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.
Practical info
What are the unique features of the Devils Postpile National Monument in California?
The Devils Postpile National Monument is an exceptional marvel in California due to its asymmetrical columnar basalt formations that tower up to 182 metres in height. Additionally, unlike other basalt formations, the Devils Postpile lacks horizontal jointing. Moreover, its uniqueness is enhanced by its highly visible glacial striations and glacial polish. Show more
How were the basalt columns formed in the Devils Postpile National Monument?
Over 100,000 years ago, the basalt columns in Devils Postpile National Monument were created following a flow of a lot of lava down the Upper Soda Springs region, followed by its contact with an immense glacier. With time, the molten lava cooled and became firm into rock before expanding, thus creating vertical joints that later grew into hexagonal columns. Over tens of thousands of years, these columns have been subjected to various erosive forces, resulting in the unique formation evident today. Show more
What is the best time of the year to visit the Devils Postpile National Monument?
If you plan to visit the Devils Postpile National Monument, the window to visit is between mid-June and October when the monument has favorable weather conditions for camping and hiking. Visitors must consider checking the monument's official website, which outlines the most up-to-date information on closures and weather conditions considering that the monument might close temporarily when winter begins. Show more
Are there camping and hiking facilities available in the Devils Postpile National Monument?
Devils Postpile National Monument has suitable camping and hiking facilities that can cater to visitors' needs. Hiking enthusiasts can explore different trails like the Ansel Adams Wilderness, Rainbow Falls, and John Muir, among others, that suit all levels. Additionally, the primary campgrounds, including Pumice Flat, Minaret Falls, and Reds Meadow, provide a chance to experience the beauty of the National Monument's postpile and its surrounding wilderness. Show more
What is the official status of the Devils Postpile National Monument and when was it established?
In 1911, The Devils Postpile National Monument accomplished national monument status in the Presidential Proclamation No. 798. It became an official part of the National Register of Historic Places and was established to preserve the rock formations from commercial exploration. The monument is under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service, and it continues to attract visitors who appreciate its beauty from around the world. Show more
