Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park
On Tuesday, May 21, 2024 we visited Pinnacles National Park in a mountainous area east of Salinas Valley in Central California. The park itself is divided by rock formations into East and West Divisions connected only by hiking trails. The rock formations provided us with spectacular view and was a haven for skilled rock climbers. The park also features some caves with approximately 13 different species of bats. We did not enter any of the larger caves. For sure a key attraction of the park is the very large California Condors. They are unmistakable with the white color under their wings and a wingspan of nearly 10 feet.
We had a full day of hiking, starting from the Bear Gulch Day Use Area and hiking to the Bear Gulch Reservoir and Moses Spring which featured two short cave crossings to make it through the trail and to the reservoir. After a brief rest we picked up the Moses Spring to Rim Trail Loop. This was a 2.2 mile hike with 500 feet of elevation gain and the hike featured a number of unique rock formations (pictures below).
At the end of the Rim Trail we connected to the Condor Gulch to High Peaks loop trail at 5.3 miles with an additional 1,300 feet of elevation gain. This was a strenuous hike with no shade and difficult terrain.
The High Peaks featured a unique walk and the side of the peak with a deep drop. Luckily the Rangers built a handrail or we would have turned back. Even with the rail, the shear drop of the cliff with 2 feet of trail and rock protruding over you was a bit scary. The trail took us through the heart of the Pinnacles rock formations particularly along the steep and narrow section of the trail.
It was a warm day and without any shade on the trail, this was a tough hike. We brought plenty of water and used all of it. The views were beautiful and getting over the high peaks trail was scary, but super happy we challenged ourselves and made it through. Total distance was approximately 8 miles and total elevation was 1,800 feet. If you get the chance and you like a challenging hike (or California Condors) this is the park to visit.
