National Park · California

Pinnacles National Park

Volcanic spires, talus caves & condors

Pinnacles is a compact park of jagged volcanic rock spires, boulder-jammed talus caves, and California condors soaring overhead, an easy trip from the Bay Area or Monterey. Spring (wildflowers) and fall are best; summer is hot.

What to see

The top things to see in Pinnacles are High Peaks Trail, Bear Gulch Cave & Reservoir, Balconies Cave, Condor viewing. Start with condors over the high peaks if you only have one anchor, then use the rest of the list to shape a half-day or full-day route.

  • High Peaks Trail
  • Bear Gulch Cave & Reservoir
  • Balconies Cave
  • Condor viewing
  • Wildflower season

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