Crowley Lake Columns: How to Visit

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Want to know what it feels like to step into another world? Well, come on down to Crowley Lake Columns, one of California’s most bizarre places!

This spot offers a mix of natural beauty, mystery, and adventure. Before heading out, here’s everything you need to know.

What Caused The Crowley Lake Columns?

Let’s get this part out of the way; I’m sure you’re wondering, “How the heck did Crowley Lake Columns come to be?!” We wondered the same.

These intriguing formations are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re also a geological puzzle centuries in the making. Formed by a process known as columnar jointing, these columns result from volcanic activity.

Thousands of years ago, hot volcanic ash flowed into the area and cooled rapidly, contracting and cracking into stunningly symmetrical shapes. Over time, erosion played its part, unveiling the columns by the lake’s edge.

Thanks, Mother Nature! Now, how does one explore these weird things?

How to Get Here: Hike or Drive?

If you’re picturing a well-marked trailhead leading to a leisurely stroll, think again. The journey to the Crowley Lake Columns is more of an off-road escapade.

You’ll need a four-wheel drive to tackle the rugged path, OR be prepared for a 2-mile hike, one way, if your ride isn’t up to the challenge.

Lucy, our VW Bus, was NOT up for the ride. You can park on the side of the dirt path if you’re in the same boat (or I guess I should say vehicle).

This is the “parking” area.

The Hike:

Distance: 4 miles
Type of Trail: Out and Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 515 feet

Other important notes:

• Dogs are allowed
• There is no fee for this trail
• Water levels matter! You might not be able to see the columns if the water level is high during the rainy season.

Trust me, the road’s mix of deep ruts, steep inclines, and sandy stretches make for a tough drive, don’t do it unless you’re 1000% confident.

But don’t let this deter you; the walk is incredibly scenic, surrounded by majestic mountains and desert shrubbery.

The path isn’t much of a hike as it’s more like a dirt road you’ll follow. The 4-mile trek is rated moderate, but it’s accessible to most, with just a bit of uphill walking involved.

There are some ups and downs on a sandy trail and then a bit of a wander through some shrubbery before descending to the beach.

Arriving at Crowley Lake Columns

After navigating the sandy and uneven paths, you’ll be greeted by the sight of Lake Crowley’s pebbly shores, with the columns standing tall right in front of you.

These formations are nothing short of otherworldly, with cave-like entrances and columnar structures that look like carefully piled salt pillars.

It’s a photographer’s dream, especially if you time your visit for when the sunlight illuminates the columns just right (either very early or late afternoon).

You can wander around here for a while, weaving in and out of the columns and enjoying soaking up the sun lakeside.

Tips:

• Vehicle Advice: Many who thought their vehicles could make it, didn’t. Even SUVs and trucks often park just a bit further up the trail, giving up on the drive very quickly.
• Bug Spray: This will be your best friend. The mosquitos are vicious and will start attacking mere seconds after getting out of your car. I can’t stress this point enough. I’d actually recommend covering up as much as possible to avoid bites, then spraying yourself down.
• Come Prepared: There’s nothing out here. At all. Not even a bathroom or water.
• Sun Protection: There’s no shade anywhere unless you’re under the columns. Bring a hat and some sunscreen.
• Swimming: If you want a dip on a hot day, you’ll have access to the lake, and you can swim here.
• Seasons: During the rainy season, the trail/road to get here might be in even worse condition, and the columns might barely be visible if the lake’s levels are too high.
• Camping: The Crowley Lake BLM Campground is a great spot to stay just across from the lake.
• Food Tip: Stop by East Side Bake Shop for some sweet treats or even some breakfast! It’s SO good. We had a yummy egg souffle before getting to the Columns and some of the best scones I’ve ever had that we ate after the hike.

Final Thoughts

The Crowley Lake Columns are well worth visiting if you’re in the area. There are a lot of cool and weird things to do in California, but I think this tops the charts as one of the weirdest.

We loved walking around and checking out these columns; you’ve got to stop by.

Where to next?

• You’re not too far from the stunning Mono Lake.
• Take a trip around the June Lakes Loop or head into Mammoth Lakes.
• Heading into Yosemite? Read our guide on the best things to do in Yosemite.
• Want to have a soak? Head to Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, Hilltop Hot Springs, or Travertine Hot Springs.
• Heading south? Don’t miss out on the Alabama Hills.

We hope this helps you plan your trip to visit Crowley Lake Columns!

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