This post was written by Jessica Schneider, 2015-2020 Office Director, 2011-2013 Information Center & Bookstore Manager, and 2010 Information Center & Bookstore Assistant.
After last November’s significant wind storm, now appropriately called “The Devils Windstorm,” caused considerable damage to the Devils Postpile/Reds Meadow area, the sites are now open for the season.
The Reds Meadow shuttle service is running, and the Devils Postpile and Reds Meadow campgrounds are open. Check here for updates on other Forest Service campground openings.
The wind event occurred November 30 through December 1, 2011. Wind came from the northeast, reaching the valley at 180 miles an hour or more, uprooting and snapping trees (mostly red fir and lodgepole) in its path. Nearly 2,000 trees have been cleared from trails in the area as of June 30.
Although the Forest Service, cooperating agencies, and a huge number of volunteers have helped to clear the road and trails in time for the Fourth of July holiday weekends, there are still felled trees causing potential hazards in the area. Visitors to this area should take precaution and understand the risks of travel in the Devils Postpile/Reds Meadow valley.
For more updates on the Devils Windstorm, check the Inyo National Forest website.