Your Safety

As John Muir once said, "One should go to the woods for safety, if for nothing else," and at Devils Postpile National Monument we could not agree more. While the woods can be our get away from life stresses and a wonderful life changing experience, they can also posses many dangers. Here at Devils Postpile we want you to have a safe and memorable experience on your visit. Please familiarize yourself and family with some of the potential hazards within the park by reviewing our safety information.

Hiking to the Postpile, Rainbow Falls or Backpacking

If you are planning on setting foot on one or more of the many trails Devils Postpile and the surrounding area has to offer, you should prepare yourself ahead of time. Take a look at our hiking safety page to help prepare you and your family for a wonderful trip.

Keeping Wildlife Wild

During your visit to Devils Postpile aside from seeing the breathtaking vista points and spectacular scenery, you also may have the pleasure of encountering some of our wildlife. These encounters could make or break your trip. Please review our wildlife page to ensure you take the correct safety precautions in the event you see our wildlife.

Swimming and Drinking Water

With the middle fork of the San Joaquin River running through the park and the surrounding areas it provides great opportunity for swimming, fishing and memorable photos. With water being the number one cause of fatalities in the National Park Service, we encourage you to review our water safety page to gather more information.

Bringing your Pet to the Monument

Your pet runs the same risk of the potential hazards on our trails as well. For more information on keeping your pet safe and some park regulations check out our pet page.

Road Safety

Visitors who meet road use exceptions listed on the shuttle bus page (visitors who are biking, camping, boating, or disabled visitors who can provide proof of physical handicap), check out our driving and road safety page for more information.

The 11 Essentials for hiking

• Food and Water: Carry high-energy snacks and plenty of water. Giardia is a threat so always treat water by boiling or using an appropriate filter. Potable water is available from water fountains next to the ranger station and restrooms so make sure to fill your water bottle even on a short day hike.
• Clothing: Weather can change dramatically in the mountains. Carry rain gear and warm clothing including wool socks, gloves and hat.
• Navigation: Carry and know how to use a topographic map and compass.
• Light: Flashlight with spare batteries and bulb.
• Fire: Waterproof matches and fire starter such as a candle.
• Sun Protection: Sunglasses and sunscreen.
• First Aid: Make sure to include any special medications. For a list of supplies: First Aid
• Knife: Folding pocket knife.
• Signal: Carry both an audible and visual signal, such as a whistle and a metal mirror.
• Emergency Shelter: Plastic tube shelter or waterproof bivouac sack or emergency blanket.

The Eleventh Essential This is your call. Think about what might be important to you. For some, it might be strong insect repellant, for others, toilet paper, a hairbrush, make-up, or your favorite novel. Everyone should try to take along a good load of common sense.