Finding the postpile can
be difficult. Starting at Camp Minkalo on the south side of Silver Lake
there is no defined trail, although there are a number of "ducks" that
lead you up the canyon. This hike is easy with only a few strenuous
sections. It is about 4 miles round trip with 500 feet of elevation
gain and 300 feet of gain in the last one-fourth mile taking you to 7900 feet
elevation.
But if you know where to look you can see and find the postpile! The problem occurs when you cross the creek. At this point you are so close to a mostly vertical wall of granite that you will miss the starting point leading you to the top of the postpile.
Most of the "trails"
lead to the creek. At this point when you are still at a relative high
elevation compared to the creek, if you look across the canyon you can
see the postpile. You must head and maintain your desire to be at the
base of what you have seen. Because of the creek, you cannot walk in
a straight line. A wonderful example showing exactly what is described
has been provided by Gene Miller. He has also provided the topography
map that shows the terrain. View his other work at http://codeking.mystarband.net
There are two ways up: the fast way along the north edge of the outcrop which requires hopping on boulders, and the long switch back route that takes you to the south side of the outcrop. The switch back trail gives you the best views of the sides of Machado Postpile and best matches the view you find for Devil's Postpile located on the other side of the Sierra near Mammoth Lakes.
