The Crowley Lake Columns: What to Know Before You Go Off-Road
The Crowley Lake Columns in California’s Eastern Sierra are one of the region’s most striking natural formations. These towering volcanic stone pillars—some reaching about 20 feet high—line the shoreline of Crowley Lake and feature arches and alcoves carved by thousands of years of erosion. The area is remote, scenic, and a rewarding destination for anyone with an interest in geology or off-road exploration.
Located east of U.S. Highway 395 and about 15 miles south of Mammoth Lakes, the columns can be accessed via a rough dirt road best suited for high-clearance vehicles. Below is a practical guide to help you prepare.
How to Prepare for the Trail
A trip to the Crowley Lake Columns can take several hours depending on conditions and how much exploring you do. Whether you hike the final stretch or drive most of the way, preparation is important.
Bring essentials:
- Plenty of water (the area is exposed and gets hot in summer)
- A camera or phone for photos
- A map or downloaded offline navigation
- Sun protection
- Layers for changing weather
- Leashed pets are allowed, but conditions can be harsh
Respect the area:
The columns are unique geological formations, so pack out everything you bring and avoid disturbing the sandstone structures or the surrounding shoreline.
Vehicle preparation:
- High-clearance 4WD is strongly recommended.
- Check fuel, tire pressure, and spare tire before leaving Highway 395.
- Make sure your vehicle’s cooling system and brakes are in good shape—temperatures and grades can both be challenging.
Getting There
From Highway 395, turn east onto Benton Crossing Road (often recognized by the iconic green church at the intersection). Continue roughly 16 miles across open high desert. Afterward, take the access roads leading toward Layton Springs Road. Conditions change frequently, but travelers can generally expect:
- About 90% dirt roads
- Sections of uneven terrain with ruts, loose rock, and sandy patches
- A steep, rutted hill near the shoreline that requires careful wheel placement
- Some technical driving along the lakeshore depending on water levels
When the lake level is low—often late summer into fall—the columns are most accessible, and the shoreline is easier to navigate.
Choosing the Right Tires
The terrain around Crowley Lake varies from packed dirt to soft sand and rutted hills. Suitable off-road tires should provide:
- Strong traction on loose surfaces
- Good sidewall protection against sharp rocks
- Stability when climbing or descending uneven grades
If you plan your visit for late fall, the water level is typically at its lowest, making access easier and allowing more of the columns and nearby caves to be visible.
Why Preparing Matters
Off-roading in the Eastern Sierra isn’t extreme, but it does require good judgment and proper preparation. Keep these principles in mind:
Choose the right vehicle:
A high-clearance 4WD offers better control on ruts, dips, and steep slopes. Suspension and approach/departure angles matter on uneven terrain.
Carry essential equipment:
In addition to water and maps, bring tools such as a tire repair kit, tow strap, portable air compressor, and basic emergency gear. Cell service is limited, so preparation helps avoid problems.
Final Thoughts
The Crowley Lake Columns are one of California’s most unusual natural sights, and reaching them can be an enjoyable off-road adventure. With the right preparation—vehicle readiness, proper tires, and a good understanding of the trail—you can explore the shoreline responsibly and enjoy views you won’t find anywhere else in the Sierra.
Pic: https://www.pexels.com/photo/stunning-hexagonal-columns-at-crowley-lake-28638901/