Day trip to the Pinnacles & Bear Gulch Cave

PINNACLES NATIONAL PARK:

The pinnacles offers many trails of varying levels of difficulty (intermediate to advanced), with striking views of pinnacle rock formations, ranging from 1 mile to 9 mile trails. There are two caves at the Pinnacles: Balconies Cave and Bear Gulch Cave.

CONDOR GULCH TRAIL:

This trail is 1.7 miles one way (about 1-1.5 hour hike). The Condor Gulch Overlook is 1 mile up the trail, where you can see fascinating rock formations from volcanic eruptions that occurred during the age of the Miocene.

• PRO: This trail is a shorter distance compared to other trails at the Pinnacles. Within a few minutes along this trail, you will immediately be able to see the High Peaks (a cluster of spires). Scenic views at Condor Gulch Overlook.
• CON: This is an intermediate to strenuous trail, with steep inclines and narrow, yet impressively paved paths. The trail is NOT shaded and it can get very hot out, depending on the season, so make sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

BEAR GULCH CAVE:

The trail starts off as a trek through a riparian forest, lush and mossy, then ascends in elevation, transitioning into a valley of boulders, which makes for a desirable location for mountain climbers/experienced rock climbers.

• INSIDE THE CAVE: There is a flight of stairs inside of the cave and narrow pathways to squeeze through, where you will need to crouch down and be careful of the rocks overhead to prevent bumping your head. A headlamp would be useful when trekking through dark passageways.
• IT'S CHILLY IN HERE: If you get cold easily, bring an extra layer to wear, because it can get chilly inside. However, its incredibly refreshing to be inside a cool cave when you're trying to escape the heat after a strenuous trail.
• ROCK CLIMBING: Shout out to the experienced mountain/rock climbers out there! Take time to check out the National Park Service's webpage for more information on safety, advisory and FAQ before climbing at the Pinnacles.
• LENGTH: This trail is about 1.5 miles up and down Bear Gulch. Pay attention to any signs along the path.

PLAN YOUR TRIP (Courtesy of the U.S. National Park Service):

• TRAILS: http://www.nps.gov/pinn/planyourvisit/trails.htm
• CAVES: The caves are not open year-round due to the bat habitat or risky weather conditions, be sure to check out the cave status here: http://www.nps.gov/pinn/planyourvisit/cavestatus.htm
• ROCK CLIMBING: http://www.nps.gov/pinn/planyourvisit/climb.htm
• SAFETY: http://www.nps.gov/pinn/planyourvisit/safety.htm