This self-guided half-mile paved trail reveals a brief chapter in the dynamic history of the Sierra Nevada. Volcanic activity occurred five to ten million years ago and changed the landscape forever. Lava flowing down the ancient Stanislaus riverbed pooled behind a natural dam. As it slowly cooled, it split into multi-sided vertical columns. Later, a glacier flowed down the valley, carving through the volcanic layers and exposing the columns. Unique to this site is a remnant glacier beneath the talus slope.
There are vault toilets available near the parking area. Trails lead to a bridge which crosses over the Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River on the way to view the geologic formation. Interpretive panels along the way illustrate the story of the Columns of the Giants.
