Devil Landmarks In California

Part of our California guide.

California’s devil-named landmarks range from deep river gorges to jagged mountain ridges, each with its own story and geological character. Here are 13 of the most intriguing, from the Sierra Nevada to the coast.

Devils Gate

Devils Gate near the Sweetwater River is known for its spooky legends and strange occurrences. Some say it's a portal to another dimension, while others believe it's haunted by spirits. The National Park Service describes this narrow cleft as 370 feet deep, 1,500 feet long, and only 50 feet wide in places, carved by the Sweetwater River through Sweetwater Rocks.

Devils Backbone

Located at Mount San Antonio/Mt. Baldy in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, the Devils Backbone marks the highest point in the monument, offering hikers a challenging ridge walk with sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness.

Devil's Garden

Devil's Garden offers a unique landscape filled with natural features that spark curiosity. From tales of ancient spirits to unexplained phenomena, this destination draws those who seek the unusual. While its exact location in the state remains a subject of debate, the name alone conjures images of a place where nature and mystery intertwine.

Devil's Punchbowl

Devil's Punchbowl in Pearblossom offers breathtaking views, unique rock formations, and a chance to escape the city. The 1,300-acre geological area sits about 30 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles, with striking sandstone formations and deep canyons carved by erosion. The area is rich in history and geology.

Death Road

Death Road winds through the Sierra Nevada foothills, offering breathtaking views and heart-pounding turns. Originally built during the Gold Rush, this road has stories etched into its curves. While it may sound intimidating, many travelers find the journey rewarding.

Devil's Golf Course

Devil's Golf Course in Death Valley National Park isn't a golf course at all. These formations are so sharp that only the devil could play golf there, or so the legend goes. The area was once a lake that dried up, leaving behind thick layers of salt and minerals.

Devils Slide

Devils Slide is a coastal area with a history filled with landslides, accidents, and stunning views. Known for its rugged cliffs and breathtaking ocean vistas, Devils Slide has long been a favorite spot for photographers and adventurers. Its beauty hides a more dangerous side.

Devil's Gulch

Devil's Gulch in Marin County offers a mix of natural beauty and intriguing history. The area is home to diverse wildlife, making it a destination for nature lovers.

Devils Kitchen

Devils Kitchen is a geothermal wonder tucked away in Lassen Volcanic National Park. Bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and colorful mineral deposits create a landscape that feels like another planet. The trail leading to Devils Kitchen winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Devils Well

Devils Well is a natural wonder that has puzzled explorers and scientists for years. Located in the heart of the Golden State, this mysterious sinkhole is surrounded by legends and local folklore.

Mount Eddy Lightning Trees

The Mount Eddy Lightning Trees in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest stand as natural sculptures, charred yet majestic. Hiking trails lead through stunning landscapes, offering breathtaking views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding wilderness.

Devil Pass

Devil Pass, nestled within the Sierra Nevada mountains, has captured the imagination of adventurers and mystery seekers. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and eerie legends, Devil Pass offers a blend of natural beauty and spine-tingling tales. Visitors are drawn to its rugged trails, hoping to glimpse unexplained phenomena. Stories abound of strange lights in the sky and whispers carried by the wind.

More about Devil Landmarks

For those drawn to the darker side of California's landscape, these related reads offer more secrets hidden in California and beyond: