Pinnacles National Park
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Pinnacles National Park - by Ben Guernsey on Unsplash
Description
Pinnacles National Park is a mountainous area with distinctive natural eroded features owing to its volcanic origins. It is located inland from California's Central Coast and is essentially divided in 2 sections: the West and East Divisions separated by rock formations. Most of the infrastructure and trails are located on the eastern side. Interestingly, the park sits on the western half of an extinct volcano that has moved over 300km from its origin along the San Andrea Fault (known for being earthquake prone) across geological times (literally).
Access & Transport
The western entrance is 8km east of Salinas and 80km from Monterey (US-101 / CA-146) The eastern entrance is 120km from Monterey and 130km southeast of San Jose (US-101 / CA-25) It is possible to hike between the East and the West side but there are no through-roads
Instructions & Recommendations
There are various trails taking anywhere from 2h to 5h. See details here: https://www.nps.gov/pinn/planyourvisit/trails.htm Many sections are relatively technical so best to wear hiking or trail running footwear and carry plenty of water with you as well as sun protection
Environmental & Social
Green activity and all entrance fees are used for projects directly related to visitor experience, resource protection, and safety.
Conclusion
Some good hiking with striking scenery but for most visitors it would not be worth a long detour, especially if you prefer green / forested environments. Best tackled intra-state or as part of a regional road-trip.
Key positive
Some impressive natural features
Trails for all levels of fitness
Key negative
Eastern side potentially busy during weekends and holidays
Weather can be very hot
Suitability
Shorter trails are suitable for families. The trails are not accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 30m
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo
Max number of travellers:
Min. Child age:3
Max. child age:11