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2010 Opening Date Announced

Devils Postpile National Monument and the Reds Meadow Valley have closed for the season. They are scheduled to open June 11, 2010.
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A Geologic Wonder

Established in 1911 by presidential proclamation, Devils Postpile National Monument protects and preserves the Devils Postpile formation, the 101-foot high Rainbow Falls, and pristine mountain scenery.  The 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.

 
Reds Meadow Shuttle Bus at the Monument

Reds Meadow Shuttle Bus

Since 1980, the Reds Meadow Shuttle has been in operation. By reducing the number of vehicles entering the Valley, the shuttle system has helped return the area to a more pristine condition for all to enjoy. 
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Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls

Just two miles downstream from the Postpile formation Rainbow Falls drops an impressive 101 feet. The fall, once called “a gem unique and worthy of its name,” is aptly named for the colorful rainbows that form in its mist.
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The Ritter Range

Hiking the High Sierra

Not only does the Monument preserve and protect the fascinating formation of the Postpile, but it also serves as a portal to the sublime High Sierra backcountry. Over 90% of the Monument is designated as wilderness. Both the John Muir and the Pacific Crest Trails pass through the Monument.  A myriad of day-hikes and overnight trips originate from the Monument's trailhead.
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Campsite in Devils Postpile National Monument's campground

Camping

The Monument's campground sits near the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin river and offers 21 first-come, first-served sites. An ADA-accessible site is available. 
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Write to

Devils Postpile National Monument
P.O. Box 3999
Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Phone

General Park Information
(760) 934-2289

Fax

(760) 934-4780

Climate

Devils Postpile National Monument is located at 7,560 feet above sea level just west of the Sierra Nevada crest. As such, it experiences typical Sierran summer weather. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. Daytime temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 90s (degrees fahrenheit). Evening temperatures can drop into the low 40s (and even the low 30s in September and October).
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Communities Surrounding Devils Postpile National Monument
Note: The times listed below are approximate driving times to the park.
Mammoth Lakes, CA (21 min. )
June Lake, CA (49 min. )
Lee Vining, CA (57 min. )
Fish Camp, CA (2 hrs.  55 min. )
Bass Lake, CA (3 hrs.  14 min. )
Wishon, CA (3 hrs.  18 min. )
Big Creek, CA (4 hrs.  27 min. )
Mono Hot Springs, CA (5 hrs.  15 min. )