Devils Postpile National Monument California

 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.

 Some details of the geologic origin of the Devils Postpile are not completely clear, but enough is known to reconstruct much of the story. Until recently, it was thought to have formed about one million years ago. Current studies suggest that the Postpile was formed less than 100,000 years ago. Approximately 100,000 years ago, a lava flowed from an unknown location upstream from the location of today's monument. As it flowed down the valley, it eventually ran into an obstruction which served as a dam to the lava's path. Pooling up to 400 feet behind the natural dam, the lava cooled. Conditions were such that the lava--that was incredibly uniform in its mineral composition--cooled at a very slow rate. As it cooled, it contracted and cracked, forming hexagonal columns. 80,000 years later, a glacier flowed through the same valley, revealing the sides and tops of the columns. Glacial polish can still be seen today at the top of the formation.

 The area now known as Devils Postpile National Monument used to be part of Yosemite National Park.  In 1905, the Devils Postpile formation, Rainbow Falls, and the Minarets were removed from Yosemite's boundaries due to pressure from mining interests.

 Devils Postpile National Monument is located in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada. As such, a wide variety of recreational activities is available in the region. Within the Monument's nearly 800 acres, visitors can explore the area's unqiue geology, take a day-hike along the John Muir or Pacific Crest trails, or simply enjoy a meal in our day-use area alongside the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin river. From camping, backpacking, and day hikes to fishing, photography, and horseback riding, there's something to do for everyone!

Just a 2.5 mile walk from the Ranger Station, Rainbow Falls is the highest water fall on the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin river. Plunging 101-feet down to the turbulent water below, the falls are aptly named for the many rainbows that appear in its mist throughout sunny summer days. Visitors interested in a moderate day-hike can make a loop, embarking from the ranger station's trailhead to the Falls and returning via Shuttle Bus Stop 9, the Rainbow Falls Trailhead. The bus can then return hikers to the monument's ranger station from the Rainbow Falls trailhead. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen for every member in your hiking group as the walk to the Falls is very hot, dry, and exposed.

 Devils Postpile National Monument is only open during the summer months.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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