Pinnacles
National Park
The land that encompasses Pinnacles National Park was formed 23 million years ago by a volcanic eruption, creating dramatic rhyolite rock spires and over time, wind and water sculpted the landscape into what it is now.
Long before it became a park, this land was home to the Amah Mutsun and Chalon tribes. It was named a national monument in 1908 by Teddy Roosevelt and officially became a national park in 2013. Today, the park works with Indigenous tribes to incorporate traditional land management, a way to respect and preserve its deep history.
Pinnacles National Park isn’t just about epic rock spires. It’s also home to caves, sweeping mountain views, and one seriously impressive bird: the California condor. These giant vultures have a 9.5-foot wingspan and can glide for hours without flapping a wing! You might spot one while hiking through the High Peaks area, so definitely look up as you go!
Pinnacles At a Glance
$30 per vehicle for 7 days or FREE with the America the Beautiful pass.
One of nine national parks in the state, Pinnacles National Park is located in central California. The closest major airport is in San Jose, just 2 hours away. We recommend you rent a car and visit the park, then continue on to explore the nearby Big Sur.
Pinnacles National Park is accessible year round to visitors. However, we recommend avoiding the summer since the park gets very hot and dry this time of year. Plus, throughout the summer occasionally Bear Gulch Cave closes to protect the bats who are raising their young this time of year.
Reservations are not required to enter the park.
Different Areas of the Park
Pinnacles National Park is divided into East and West sides, which are not directly connected by road. Within those two sides, the popular areas include Bear Gulch, Balconies Cave, High Peaks, and the Condor Gulch trail.
The BEST Hike in Pinnacles National Park
Want to experience the BEST hike in Pinnacles National Park? In this guide we’re sharing everything you need to know to hike the Bear Gulch Cave, High Peaks Trail, & Condor Gulch Trail at Pinnacles National Park!
Videos
Hello from California’s smallest national park: Pinnacles! This park is located east of the Big Sur area and south of the Bay Area and is famous for its rock pinnacles, California Condors (the largest flying bird in the WORLD), and caves.
While it may be the smallest national park in the state, it packs a BIG punch! We spent half a day in the park hiking the Condor Gulch, High Peaks, and Bear Gulch Reservoir trail (5.5 miles total) and in just a few hours we saw tons of pinnacles, plus gorgeous mountain and hill views, hiked up steps carved into rocks, and explored dark and narrow caves. It was one of the most fun and unique trails we have been on!
