|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
         
 Reporter |
Summary: This easy hike include two of natures wonders. From the parking area, follow the well marked trail about a half mile to Devils Postpile. The Postpile is an amazing set of crystallized vertical columns of lava, caused by differing rates of cooling. I truly looks line the devil pushed giant posts up from under the earth! Continue on the trail about 2 miles, following the well marked signs towards Rainbow Falls, enjoying the lovely San Joaquin river along the way. Rainbow falls is a staggering spectacle, plunging 100 foot over a shear cliff into a lovely horseshoe shaped amphitheater. You can walk along the rocks near enough to feel the mist of the falls. Return on the same trail, branching tight at about the half mile mark, taking to trail towards Reds Meadow resort where a cool drink and the shuttle bus awaits. Trailhead: From 395, exit at Mammoth Lakes Junction (highway 203) , turn left, and follow the road through town. Turn right at Minaret Road and follow the signs to the Mammoth ski resort. During the summer, you are required to take a shuttle bus down into Red's Meadow. Have the driver drop you off at the Devils Postpile parking area. You will pick the shuttle bus up again at the Red's Meadow Resort for the return trip back to your car. (Lat:37.63001 Lon:-119.08477) Trail Guides for Devils Postpile - Rainbow Falls: California Hiking by Tom Stienstra & Ann Marie Brown (Foghorn Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Horses, Ranger Contact: Mammoth Ranger Station 760-924-5500 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jim Zuber, who has posted 104 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 2 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Alan on 10/20/2003 Just got back from visiting the area in Sept. and the views are well worth the crowds you might have to deal with. However, what was even more stunning was the views of the valley that was scorched by a fire on the way to Rainbow Falls... very surreal. Don't forget to see the top of the Postpile. I recall the ranger saying that this is only 1 of 2 places in the world where it's possible.
Reviewed by A. Riedel on 9/7/2003 This is a great hike. The only drawback are the hordes of people. I once hiked this in the winter (when no busses run) so I had to hike the length of the road, but it was awesome to have the entire place to myself, the postpile and the falls are truly wonders of nature. See the postpile from the top too - it is like walking on perfect hexagonal tiles - bizarre. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Mono County Hiking, Mono County Trails, Mono County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
