Spiraling out of the chaparral-covered mountains stand the majestic remains of an ancient volcano, the breeding ground of one of California’s most iconic creatures and caves formed by earthquakes and the unrelenting power of water. – Welcome to Pinnacles National Park
Born of fire, the Pinnacles were formed by an ancient volcano who’s other half can be found just north of present day Los Angeles (200 miles to the south!)
When visiting The Pinnacles – as locals call the park – I recommend cranking out anything from a 3 mile out and back to a 10+ mile loop hike of your choice – options abound! The route I chose took me from the western parking lot to the eastern side of the Park and I experienced every microclimate and touched darn near every geological feature and creek you can see/touch at Pinnacles in about 13 miles. But you can also find some shorter hikes that take you straight up to the Spires (out and back) or down even into the darkness of Balconies Cave – keep an eye out for the wall arrows!
For those less into spelunking (aka – caving) or people not down for a half marathon trail run/hike, I recommend bringing a picnic basket a favorite beverage (or two) and enjoy a mellow day of bird watching. California’s newest national park is also home one of our nation’s most magnificent birds, with wings spanning nine and half feet – that’s a long as some modern-day cars! – looking at you Fiat.
The California condor population steadily declined during the 20th century until there were only 22 known to exist in the world. The last of the free-flying condors were taken into captivity in 1987 in order to save the species from extinction and there were no California condors in the wild between 1988 and 1991, but reintroduction efforts began in early 1992 and continue today. As of May 2013, there are approximately 435 California condors in the world, about 237 of which are free-flying in California, Arizona and Baja California, Mexico.
There is also an opportunity to scale some big-walls (if so inclined… get it?) or even choose more beginner style means of rock climbing. Both of which I look forward to doing upon my return and always looking for company.
Thanks to the infamous San Andreas Fault, these volcanic rocks were dragged from their prehistoric eruption site, to their present home at this spot not far from Monterey Bay. Now, millions of years later, the site is a visual and physical stunner and an adventurers’ paradise!
If you want guidance on how to experience the park; want to discuss how I explored Pinnacles or want to connect just for some AH (Adventure Hydrology) give me a shout.
