Minaret Falls

California

Inyo National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

sandy.redding CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

George Lamson CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

davidseibold CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Ryan Grimm CC BY-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

200 ft

About Minaret Falls

Minaret Falls tumbles through alpine forest near Devils Postpile National Monument, offering a classic Sierra cascade set against rocky ledges and conifered slopes. The falls sit on Inyo National Forest land managed by the U.S. Forest Service and are often visited in conjunction with the striking columnar basalt of Devils Postpile — the nearby national monument (near Mammoth Mountain) that protects the mosaic-like basalt formation and, within its roughly 798 acres, attractions such as Rainbow Falls. Access to the Minaret Falls area is commonly made via the USFS MINARET CREEK (Trail #2621). The setting feels remote but approachable, with forests, mountain views, and nearby backcountry camping; Pumice Flat Group Camp lies about 1.91 km from the trailhead for those planning an overnight stay.

USFS Trail

MINARET CREEK #2621

Trail Class

Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

5-8%

USFS Segment

2.04 mi

Trail Description

The official route to Minaret Falls follows the MINARET CREEK, Trail #2621 (USFS). According to USFS data the trail is Class 3 with a native-material surface and a typical grade of 5–8%. GIS data lists the trail at 2.04 miles; it is commonly hiked as an out-and-back of about 1.5 miles with roughly 200 feet of elevation gain and an overall easy difficulty. Expect natural tread (dirt/roots/rock), occasional steeper short pitches consistent with a Class 3 rating, and clear alpine-forest scenery en route to the base of the falls.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a serene hike with opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the Eastern Sierra. The waterfall is most impressive in late spring and early summer when snowmelt increases the water flow.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and natural obstacles.

Seasonal Closures

The trail and access roads may be closed during winter months due to snow.

Safety Information

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls. Carry bear spray and store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife. Check weather conditions before visiting, as storms can occur unexpectedly.

Location & Access

Getting There

Minaret Falls is accessible via the Minaret Falls Trail, which starts near the Devils Postpile National Monument. Visitors typically park at the Reds Meadow area and hike to the falls.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Reds Meadow area, but during peak summer months, access may require taking a mandatory shuttle from Mammoth Mountain due to limited parking and environmental regulations.

Elevation

8104 feet above sea level

Coordinates

37.640769° N, -119.094858° W

Land Management

Inyo National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring insect repellent during summer months, as mosquitoes can be present. Check shuttle schedules if visiting during peak season.

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This easy 1.5 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.

Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)

Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.

JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit

Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.

Osprey Daylite Daypack

Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.

Where to Stay

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

PUMICE FLAT GROUP CAMP

1.2 miles away · 4 sites

Walking distance Reservable

Overview Pumice Flat Group Camp is located in the Red's Meadows and Devils Postpile section of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, just west of the full-service community of Mammoth Lakes, California. This group camping facility provides access to some of the most spectacular wilderness in the Sierras and many outdoor activities such as horseback riding, fishing, hiking, photography and geologic study of the dramatic landscape. Devils Postpile National Monument and the famous Ansel Adams Wildern

Book on Recreation.gov