Pinnacles National Park

Around 23 million years ago, a series of volcanic eruptions shaped the landscape that is now Pinnacles National Park. The remnants of these ancient eruptions have formed a striking terrain of rocky spires and deep canyons. Visitors can explore diverse environments, from chaparral and oak woodlands to the cool, shaded depths of canyon floors.

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WEATHER INFO

Pinnacles National Park has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers, and mild winters with moderate precipitation. The park is several miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. A wider variation in seasonal temperatures can be expected in the local area. Summers are hot with temperatures above 100 degrees. Winters are cooler with highs in the 60s. Big swings in temperature occur between day and night, year round.

Weather @ Pinnacles

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last updated: 13 min

DIRECTIONS INFO

Laguna Beach, California

7.0 hr

Pinnacles

Pinnacles National Park is accessible through highway 101 for the West entrance, and highway 25 for the East entrance. From highway 101 you must pass through the City of Soledad to find highway 146 which will lead to West side of Pinnacles. To enter East Pinnacles you must find highway 25 through the City of Hollister coming from the North, and King City through Bitter Water Road (G-13) when coming from the South. NOTE: There is no through road between the east and west entrance.

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Alerts

INFORMATION

Heavy Traffic and High Visitation Alert

Pinnacles experiences extremely high visitation on weekends, holidays, and during favorable weather, especially in the spring. Expect long lines and delays between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. If you're planning to hike the High Peaks, Condor Gulch, Balconies, or Moses Spring Trail, it’s recommended to arrive before 8:00 am (parking may fill earlier). Additionally, campground access may be temporarily delayed during peak periods of visitation when ALL incoming traffic is held.

CAUTION

Hot Conditions

Limit strenuous hiking to early morning and late evening hours. Drink plenty of water and carry extra. Know the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses. In case of a heat related emergency get to a cool place and seek help immediately.

PARK CLOSURE

Bear Gulch Cave Closed

Due to maternal bat colonies present in Bear Gulch Cave, and in line with the expected seasonal closure scheduling, the Bear Gulch Caves are currently closed. The Balconies Cave remains open, and accessible from the Balconies or Old Pinnacles trails.

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Pinnacles National Park