The Devils Postpile basalt formation resembles tall columns.
Devils Postpile formation is one of many features to see at Devils Postpile National Monument. NPS Photo

Devils Postpile National Monument

National Monument · California · National Park Service

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 up to 60 feet and display a striking symmetry.

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Phone
7609342289
Official site
www.nps.gov
Managed by
National Park Service

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What's here

Highlights: Animals · Climate Change · Fire · Forests and Woodlands · Coniferous Forests · Geology · Groundwater · Freshwater Springs · Mountains · Natural Sounds · Night Sky · Astronomy · River and Riparian · Scenic Views · Trails · Volcanoes · Watersheds · Waterfalls · Wetlands · Marshes · Swamps · Wilderness

Activities & features: Astronomy · Stargazing · Biking · Road Biking · Camping · Car or Front Country Camping · Fishing · Hiking · Front-Country Hiking · Horse Trekking · Horseback Riding · Junior Ranger Program · Wildlife Watching

Photos

  • Hexagonal fractures that make up the columns at the postpile with glacial polish
    NPS Photo
  • Waterfall with faint rainbow
    NPS Photo
  • Soda Springs Meadow and San Joaquin River
    NPS Photo

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Sources: National Park Service, Google Places · updated 2026-08-12