Due to winter conditions in the mountains the monument is open only during the summer season. Opening dates vary depending on snowfall, but in 2006 the monument was open to visitors from June 27 until October 31. Outside of that time access by car is not possible, although visitors traveling by ski or on foot may still be able to enter the park.
The closest commercial airport is in Reno. From Reno, drive south on U.S. Highway 395 for approximately 3 hours (170 miles) to State Route 203.
From U.S. Highway 395, drive 10 miles west on S.R. 203 to Minaret Vista and then another 8 miles on a paved, steep mountain road. Please note that this road is single lane for approximately 3 miles.
There is a mandatory shuttle bus that operates from mid-June through September. To use the shuttle park at the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. The shuttle does not need to be used by visitors who meet any of the following criteria:
Shuttle bus tickets can be purchased at the Forest Service Adventure Center located in the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area Gondola Building adjacent to the Mammoth Mountain Inn at the top of Highway 203. Buses run every 20 or 30 minutes.
For those visitors keen to bike down to the Postpile, bicycles are allowed down the road free of charge. If, however, visitors choose not to ride back out of the Valley and opt to use the shuttle instead, they must pay the transportation fee. The shuttle buses are equipped to transport bicycles.
All visitors to the Reds Meadow Valley area, whether they take the mandatory shuttle bus or drive their personal vehicle, must pay a transportation fee. The fees are as follows:
Season passes are available for $35. Note since the fees charged are transportation fees (and not park entry fees) that '''Golden Passports and National Park Passes are not valid''' for this transportation fee under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. Fees are valid for the duration of the visit.
The park is a popular entry point for treks into the Ansel Adams and John Muir wilderness areas. Wilderness permits are required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Backpackers are encouraged to acquire their wilderness permits from the Inyo National Forest, although the staff at Devils Postpile can issue first-come, first-served permits for trips originating out of trailheads within Reds Meadow Valley. These walk-in permits are free of charge.
Permits can be issued for the day of entry or the day before (starting at 11:00am). Reservations are not available through the Devils Postpile Ranger Station. Backcountry users interested in obtaining a reservation must contact the Inyo National Forest's Wilderness Permit Office at (760) 873-2485.
Bear cannisters are required for most destinations. Devils Postpile has a limited number of these available for rent for $3.00/day.