5000 Hwy 146, Paicines, CA 95043
Phone: 831-389-4485
Fax: 831-389-4489
Open All Year
Overview. The craggy remnants of an ancient volcano tower up to 1,200 feet above the rolling chaparral at aptly named Pinnacles National Monument. The lofty spires and ridges of the monument are only a portion of what remains of the original volcanic mountain, however. The rest lies 195 miles southeast of Pinnacles, separated by the sometimes subtle, sometimes violent movement of the San Andreas Fault. In addition to the spectacular spires, which attract technical rock climbers and day hikers alike, Pinnacles National Monument preserves the delicate and threatened chaparral ecosystem. The monument is divided into east and west districts, each accessible by state roads, but no road passes through the park from one district to the other. What to see and do. Spring and autumn are the most friendly seasons at Pinnacles, and the weekend crowds bear this out. Begin your visit to the east district at the Bear Gulch Visitor Center or, if you're staging your tour of Pinnacles from the west district, stop by the Chaparral Ranger Station. There are geological exhibits and bookstores at both locations. Check the posted activity schedule for ranger-led hikes and talks. Hikers have roughly 30 miles of trails to choose from, with eleven different trails ranging from long and strenuous to short and leisurely. You can hike to talus caves from either side of the monument, but be sure to bring a flashlight if you plan to explore them. Technical rock climbers come to Pinnacles to test their mettle on the craggy spires. Stop at the ranger station or the visitor center for information. Some areas are restricted and novices should not, under any circumstances, attempt to climb here. Pinnacles is a day-use area only, opening at 7:30 AM and closing between 7 PM and 9 PM, depending on the season. Due to the threat of fire and the delicate balance of the chaparral ecosystem, camping and overnight hikes are not allowed. There is a privately owned campground just outside the east entrance of the monument; it offers showers, a swimming pool, a camp store, and electrical hookups for an additional charge. Food and lodging are available in Hollister and King City, 32 miles from the east entrance, and in Soledad, 12 miles from the west entrance. If you visit during the summer, be aware that temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and take proper precautions. Fees: A nominal entrance fee is charged.
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Bird Watching |
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Caving |
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Climbing |
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Geological Sites |
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Hiking/Nature Trails |
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Museum/Exhibits |
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Picnic Sites |
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Self-guided Tours |
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Visitor Center |
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Wildflower Viewing |
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Wildlife Viewing |
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