United States California
Pinnacles National Park
A Californian national park known for its towering rock spires, talus caves, and home to the endangered California condors.
- (831) 389-4485
- http://www.nps.gov/pinn/index.htm
Tips from the community
One of the nation’s newest parks as of 2013, Pinnacles National Park is the dream of hikers and rock climbers the world over. The movement of volcanic fields and fault lines over the course of some 60 million years leaves us today with unparalleled massive, vertical rock spires and steep canyons in Central California.
Campers and climbers come from surrounding areas to witness the flight of at least 80 California Condors that live in the park, a rare species of bird that was once extinct in the wild. In addition to the Condors that run through the wild, in the undeveloped center of the park bats and other wildlife can be found in the talus caves, like Bear Gulch and Balconies, which are scattered throughout the park.
savannah.whitmer 3 years ago
The Pinnacles National Park reveals a world forged by volcanos and the shifting tectonic plates of California. More than 20 million years ago, multiple mountains blew their lid and spilled lava across a vast swathe of uplands just east of the 101 Highway. Today, it’s a mecca for hikers and cavers, wildlife seekers and wild campers. You can enter from east or west but be sure to mark highlights like the Bear Gulch talus cave and the cross-park High Peaks Trail.
jrfrancis 4 years ago
One of the younger of the national parks in the NPS is Pinnacles. Born in 2013, it’s hailed for its curious geological formations. It hosts a whopping 48 mammals, including jackrabbits, gray foxes, and bobcats, but is known as the home of the California Condor: the largest land birds in North America.
jrfrancis 3 years ago
Stop by the visitor center for information about stargazing. Ranger led programs will give you the best experience identifying stars and planets in this remote location.
nicolejordan 3 years ago
Small park but very peaceful.
chiefseeker 2 years ago
Pinnacles National Park Guides
California National Park Roadtrip: All the best spots to stop along the way
seeker (Seeker Editors) Pack your bags and get ready for an epic road trip through the Golden State's most breathtaking landscapes. From the towering trees of Sequoia National Park to the serene vistas of Point Reyes National Seashore, our California National Park road trip guide covers all the must-see spots to fuel your wanderlust. Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for your next challenge or a nature lover in search of tranquil beauty, this journey has something for everyone. Buckle up, and let's hit the road, taking in the dazzling array of ecosystems and unforgettable experiences each stop along the way has to offer.Off The Beaten Path National Parks
seeker (Seeker Editors) For adventurous individuals seeking space away from bustling tourist destinations, we have selected some of the most mesmerizing national parks across North America for your next escapade. From the arctic circle in Canada to deep canyons of California, witness brown bears hunting for salmon, puffins gathering on beaches, and wildflowers blooming a symphony of colors. From clear turquoise waters and sandy beaches to volcanic terrain- beat the crowds at these lesser-known national parks across the continent.Pinnacles National Park
chiefseeker (Jody Vandergriff) Top things to see and do at the lesser known national park in California.Amazing Caves in Northern California
michele (Michele Humeston) The Mother Lode area has some of California’s largest cavern systems. Professional tours of these natural wonders are fun, easy to access and educational for the entire family.National Parks Visited
lwithrow (Lindsay Withrow) 50 and counting!National Parks I've Been To
nicolejordan (Nicole Jordan)National Parks in California
chiefseeker (Jody Vandergriff) California boasts 9 national parks - more than any other state. Each park is distinct from the next - from the largest tree in the world at Sequoia National Park to the underwater world of Channel Islands - California offers non stop beauty and intrigue.Map of National Parks in the US
seeker (Seeker Editors) The US boasts an impressive 63 national parks, each with its own distinct character, awe inspiring views and countless ways to connect with nature. The parks are managed by the National Park Service which offers an annual pass for access to all 63 parks throughout the year for one flat price. Let's explore.