🏜️ California’s Best Hidden Gem: The Crowley Lake Stone Columns
Some of California’s best discoveries aren’t found on a map — they’re found by accident.
When we were road-tripping along Highway 395, we weren’t planning to stop at Crowley Lake. But one night, while scrolling on TikTok, we stumbled upon a video of strange, cathedral-like pillars rising from the lake’s shore. We looked it up, realized it was right on our route to Bodie, and decided to add an impromptu stop.
And let me tell you — it turned out to be one of the most incredible detours of our entire California trip. 🌄
🚏 Table of Contents
- The Crowley Lake Stone Columns
- 🚙 How to Get to the Crowley Lake Columns
- ☀️ Know Before You Go
The Crowley Lake Stone Columns
Tucked away on the eastern shore of Crowley Lake, these surreal 20-foot-tall stone pillars look like something straight out of another world. Formed over 760,000 years ago by volcanic activity, the columns are made of hardened ash and pumice left behind after a massive eruption.
Over time, waves from the lake eroded the softer material, revealing the intricate patterns and arches we can see today. The result? A natural stone cathedral that looks more like an ancient temple than a geological formation.
At their tops, many of the columns are connected by smooth arches, giving the illusion of man-made architecture. It’s no wonder people compare them to the ruins of a Moorish temple.
But here’s the secret — these formations were hidden for millennia, buried in sediment until the lake’s waves slowly uncovered them.
✨ Why You’ll Love It:
- Unique geological formations unlike anywhere else in California.
- The perfect off-the-beaten-path photo spot.
- A rare mix of natural beauty and mystery.
📸 Photo Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer people. The sun hits the columns beautifully when it’s low in the sky.
🚙 How to Get to the Crowley Lake Columns
This is where adventure meets patience. The columns might be one of California’s best-kept secrets — but they’re also not the easiest to reach.
Here’s how to find them:
- Start from Highway 395 near Rock Creek.
- Turn onto Owens Gorge Road and continue past the Long Valley Dam.
- After passing the dam, keep right for 0.2 miles (about 300 meters).
- Take a U-turn onto an unpaved path.
- 🚗 If you have a high-clearance 4WD:
- You can follow this dirt road all the way to the end. The terrain is sandy and rough, but doable with a capable vehicle.
- 🚶 If you don’t have a 4WD:
- Park at the lot on the right-hand side before the unpaved path and continue on foot from there.
The trail is listed on AllTrails as a 4.2-mile (6.8 km) out-and-back route. You’ll essentially be walking the same sandy road used by off-road vehicles — so wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and plan for some sun exposure.
🗺️ Navigation Tip:
We’ve created a Google Maps route from Highway 395 to the nearest parking area — because there are a few easy-to-miss turns. Follow it closely to avoid getting lost in the maze of dirt tracks.
☀️ Know Before You Go
Here are a few things to keep in mind before setting out:
🚘 You’ll Need a 4WD (or Be Ready to Hike)
The road to the lake’s edge is sandy and uneven — not suitable for standard cars. If you don’t have a high-clearance 4WD, park before the unpaved road and walk the rest of the way.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore the columns is late fall through early spring when water levels are lower, exposing more of the formations.
In summer, it’s still possible — but parts of the columns might be submerged, and the heat can be intense.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
There’s no shade and no services out here. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat — especially if you’re hiking.
📱 Offline Map Recommended
Cell service can be spotty near the lake, so download your map offline before heading out.
📸 Why You Shouldn’t Skip It
Crowley Lake isn’t just another stop — it’s a story you’ll tell for years.
Standing among those ancient volcanic arches, with the lake shimmering behind you, feels like you’ve discovered a secret world.
It’s remote, quiet, and truly one of California’s most underrated natural wonders.
If you’re driving along Highway 395, between Mammoth Lakes and Bodie — trust us, this stop deserves a spot on your list.
📥 FREE California Hidden Gem Guide (PDF)
Want to save this guide for your next road trip? Download it as a FREE PDF — with directions, parking details, and local tips to explore Crowley Lake offline. Perfect for when cell service disappears in the desert! Click here to get it.
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