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Explore Pinnacles National Park

San Benito County, California

4.6/5
based on 14 reviews

Description

Added by Pascual Dutton

An easy, really fun day trip for bay area residents.Explore two caves, a reservoir, and a myriad of wildlife.The scenery is epic and truly shines at dusk and dawn.A great winter hike, as the summer months can get hot.

It’s hard to believe how many people don’t know about this place, which was newly designated as a National Park in January 2013. Pinnacles National Park is hidden just south of San Jose in the Gabilan Mountains, and is a short drive for anyone living in the Bay Area.

With beautiful rock spires piercing the horizon, huge boulders, inviting caves, light crowds, and endangered California condors floating high above, Pinnacles National Park gives off a very spiritual vibe. There are thirteen well-maintained hiking trails that weave across the park’s 26,000 acres.

There are multiple hiking options, depending on the amount of time you have and the level of difficulty you’re looking for. My favorite 4-5 hour hike is the Bear Gulch to High Peaks trail, a 6.7-mile loop that allows you to hit a lot of the park’s highlights. This is easiest accessed via the park’s East Entrance. You’ll begin by exploring the Bear Gulch caves (you’ll need your headlamp/flashlight), then up to the reservoir, and finally to the Steep and Narrow route to the High Peaks. The Steep and Narrow route includes some steep and semi-challenging hiking, as well as a bit of scrambling, but the views from the top are simply amazing.

Parking is $5/vehicle for day use, paid at the visitor center. The west entrance is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The east entrance is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 831-389-4486.

Be sure to dress in layers – it can be warm on the trail and cool in the caves. If you have hiking boots, I would recommend using them. Bring plenty of water.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Explore Pinnacles National Park Reviews

This hike was stunning. Two of us tackled the Bear Gulch to High Peaks trail in 3.5 hours. The trail took us first to the gulch, where the hills around us were reflected beautifully in the still water. We then climbed about 1400 feet up into the High Peaks. Stunning views!! Be a bit brave and scramble to the top of a huge boulder to take it all in. Then descend down the Condor ridge trail. Tip: start early in the morning during summer months as it gets HOT.

The first time passing by Pinnacles we decided to skip it as we didn't know if it was worth the detour. I am SO glad we went back and decided to check it out. One of my favorite spots in CA. Best part was the lack of crowds compared to other NPs in the state.

Pinnacles National Park in Central California is a fantastic place for outdoor fun and adventure if you love hiking, climbing or even photography. Here are some of my favorite highlights on where I visited, hiked and photographed this spectacular park http://travelphotodiscovery.com/travel-photo-postcard-pinnacles-national-park/ Enjoy the park

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Balconies Cave Trail

Camp in Pinnacles National Park