Pinnacles National Park
Small park but very peaceful.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pinnacles National Park is made up of rocky, mountainous terrain in the heart of California. Known for wildland terrain and its unique variety of spring wildflowers, Pinnacles National Park attracts visitors from around the world to witness a rich diversity of wildlife, picturesque views, and rugged hiking trails.
Along with unique Californian wildlife, Pinnacles National Park features a versatile terrain encompassed by thousands of gorgeous wildflowers and rich plant life. This mountainous landscape is made up of rare cave formations, oak woodlands, and deep canyons that are home to peregrine falcons, golden eagles, and California condor.
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.
"Pinnacles National Park preserves some of California’s oddest landscapes with out-of-place rock spires and boulder-filled gorges with talus caves just waiting to be explored. Grab your headlamp and head to the west side of Pinnacles National Park for a trek into Balconies Cave. "
Camping, hiking, birding
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.
Map of Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park Lists
National Parks in the U.S.
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.National Parks I've Been To
Off The Beaten Path National Parks
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.Amazing Caves in Northern California
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.Pinnacles National Park
Top things to see and do at the lesser known national park in California.National Parks Visited
50 and counting!National Parks in California
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.
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Pinnacles National Park Articles
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Pinnacles National Park: The Complete Guide for 2022
Read more...As volcanoes erupted throughout central California about 23 million years ago, Pinnacles National Park began to form. Located near the San Andreas Fault, the fault split over time and pushed Pinnacles about 200 miles north. Peaks over 3,000 feet were formed, and the continuing tectonic movement and wind and water erosion formed the unusual rock […]
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All 9 of California’s National Parks: Ranked
Read more...California is the stuff of myths, legends, and lore. There’s a sense of fantasy that doesn’t hail from Hollywood, but from the size and scope of its natural wonders. Otherworldly landscapes abound, from colossal, ancient trees to volcanic basins and dangerous deserts, rocky plains and cacti-covered mesas. For those looking to reignite their appreciation for […]
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Complete List of National Parks in the US By State
Read more...From swivel chairs to space rockets, the US has had some darn bright ideas over its short history. But of all the ideas that have changed the world, the national parks system is surely close to the top. It was way back in 1872 that the sulfur-belching lands of Yellowstone were designated as protected lands […]