Interesting Facts, History & Information About The Devils Postpile National Monument

The Devils Postpile National Monument is a remarkable geological feature located in the Eastern Sierra region of California, USA. This monument, which was created in 1911, covers an area of 798 acres and is home to some of the most unique and fascinating natural formations in the world.

The main attraction of the monument is the Devils Postpile, a towering formation of columnar basalt that was created over 100,000 years ago. But there’s more to the Devils Postpile than just its geology – it has a rich history and unique ecosystem that make it a fascinating place to visit.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some interesting facts, history, and information about the Devils Postpile National Monument that you may not have known before.

Interesting facts about Devils Postpile national monument

Here are some interesting facts about Devils Postpile National Monument:

1. Devils Postpile is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California and covers an area of 798 acres.
2. The main attraction of the monument is a unique rock formation known as the Devils Postpile, which is a collection of 60-foot-tall hexagonal basalt columns that were formed by volcanic activity.
3. The Devils Postpile is one of the best examples of columnar basalt in the world and is believed to have been formed about 100,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption.
4. The monument is also home to several waterfalls, including Rainbow Falls, which drops 101 feet into a canyon below.
5. The area was inhabited by the Mono people for thousands of years before European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s.
6. In the early 1900s, developers planned to build a hydroelectric dam on the San Joaquin River, which would have flooded the Devils Postpile area. However, the Sierra Club and other conservation groups fought to protect the area, and in 1911, President William Howard Taft designated the Devils Postpile as a national monument.
7. The monument is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, and numerous bird species.
8. Visitors to the monument can hike, camp, fish, and view wildlife. The monument also offers ranger-led programs and educational exhibits at its visitor center.
9. Devils Postpile National Monument is adjacent to the Ansel Adams Wilderness, which offers even more opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation.
10. The monument’s unique geologic features and stunning natural beauty make it a popular destination for photographers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.

Why is it called Devils Postpile?

The Devils Postpile was named by early explorers who were likely inspired by the unusual and somewhat eerie appearance of the columnar basalt formation. The name “Devils” may have been used to describe the unusual shape of the basalt columns, which resemble towering posts or pillars that were crafted by some sort of malevolent force.

The term “postpile” refers to the formation’s symmetrical appearance, with each column looking like a post stacked on top of another. The name “Devils Postpile” has stuck throughout the years and is now the official name of the monument.

How was Devils Postpile formed?

The Devils Postpile was formed by volcanic activity that occurred in the region over 100,000 years ago. During this time, molten lava flowed out of nearby vents and onto the surface of the earth. As the lava cooled and solidified, it began to contract, causing it to crack and form hexagonal columns.

Over time, erosion and other geological forces exposed the Devils Postpile formation and revealed the unique columns of basalt that we see today.

Interestingly, the same volcanic activity that created the Devils Postpile also formed other notable geological features in the area, including the nearby Minaret Summit, Mammoth Mountain, and the Long Valley Caldera.

The region is still geologically active today, with evidence of occasional volcanic activity and ongoing seismic activity.

How old is Devils Postpile?

The Devils Postpile is estimated to be around 100,000 years old. This estimate is based on studies of the geological processes that occurred in the region during the formation of the basalt columns.

The cooling and contracting of the lava, which led to the formation of the columnar basalt, is a slow process that can take thousands of years to complete.

Since the Devils Postpile is made up of tens of thousands of these columns, scientists believe that it took a long time for the formation to take shape. Despite its age, the Devils Postpile remains one of the most unique and well-preserved examples of columnar basalt formations in the world.

Devils Postpile rock type

The Devils Postpile is made up of columnar basalt, which is a type of volcanic rock that forms from the cooling and solidification of lava. Basalt is one of the most common types of volcanic rock and is typically dense and fine-grained. The columnar structure of basalt is the result of the contraction that occurs as the lava cools and solidifies, causing it to crack and form into hexagonal columns.

The columns of the Devils Postpile are generally 1-2 feet in diameter and can be as tall as 60 feet. The basalt columns are also characterized by their dark color, which is caused by the high concentration of iron and magnesium in the rock.

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Information & History of Devils Postpile national monument

Devils Postpile National Monument is a protected area located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of eastern California, United States. The monument covers an area of 798 acres and is known for its unique rock formations, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

The most notable feature of the monument is the Devils Postpile, a collection of 60-foot-tall hexagonal basalt columns that were formed by volcanic activity about 100,000 years ago. The monument is also home to several other volcanic formations, including lava flows, domes, and craters.

The area was originally inhabited by the Mono people, who lived in the region for thousands of years before European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s. The Mono people believed that the Devils Postpile was created by a battle between the god of the sky and the god of the underworld.

In the early 1900s, developers planned to build a hydroelectric dam on the San Joaquin River, which would have flooded the Devils Postpile area. However, the Sierra Club and other conservation groups fought to protect the area, and in 1911, President William Howard Taft designated the Devils Postpile as a national monument.

Since then, the monument has been managed by the National Park Service and offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The monument also offers ranger-led programs and educational exhibits at its visitor center.

In addition to the Devils Postpile, the monument is home to several other notable features, including Rainbow Falls, which drops 101 feet into a canyon below, and the Ansel Adams Wilderness, which offers even more opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation.

FAQ about Devils Postpile national monument

Here are some frequently asked questions about Devils Postpile National Monument:

What is the Devils Postpile?

The Devils Postpile is a unique rock formation made up of 60-foot-tall hexagonal basalt columns that were formed by volcanic activity. It is the main attraction of the monument and is considered one of the best examples of columnar basalt in the world.

How was the Devils Postpile formed?

The Devils Postpile was formed about 100,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption. As lava flowed from a nearby volcano, it began to cool and contract, causing it to crack and form the distinctive hexagonal columns that make up the Devils Postpile.

What other attractions are there at the monument?

In addition to the Devils Postpile, the monument is home to several other notable features, including Rainbow Falls, which drops 101 feet into a canyon below, and the Ansel Adams Wilderness, which offers even more opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation.

Can I hike at the monument?

Yes, the monument offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Some of the most popular trails include the Devils Postpile Trail, the Rainbow Falls Trail, and the John Muir Trail.

Is camping allowed at the monument?

Yes, the monument offers two campgrounds: the Devils Postpile Campground and the Reds Meadow Campground. Both campgrounds are open from mid-June through September and offer tent and RV camping.

What wildlife can I expect to see at the monument?

The monument is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, and numerous bird species. Visitors should be cautious and keep a safe distance from wildlife at all times.

Is the monument open year-round?

No, the monument is typically only open from mid-June through October due to heavy snowfall in the winter months. Visitors should check the monument’s website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and seasonal closures.

Are there guided tours available at the monument?

Yes, the monument offers ranger-led programs and educational exhibits at its visitor center. These programs cover a variety of topics, including geology, wildlife, and human history.