From rock climbing to trail running and from foggy mornings to triple digit temperatures in the summer, Pinnacles National Park is a uniquely spectacular landscape which stands apart from from Big Sur and the Monterey Bay just down the road. The park’s most thrilling and ‘exposed’ hike is the journey to the High Peaks, a series of jagged pinnacles that are the symbols for this timeless landscape.
The highest of the High Peaks sits at 2,720 feet but even if you’re not a mountain climber you should have no problem getting to the top thanks to some very creative and skillful trail building by the Civilian Conservation Corps way back in the 1930s.
The path meanders through a boulder filled labyrinth, tracing along a series of constricted passageways, and climbs over, around, and often in-between an elaborate maze of spires – great views in every direction. Handholds, footholds blasted into the rock abound… but believe me, it’s still an adventure. – especially on a windy wet day!!
When you reach High Peaks’ summit, look down and across at the park’s huge expanse of undulating grasslands and rock monoliths. Look up for California’s condors too—you might be closer to them here than anywhere else in the park.
These rock formations of Pinnacles National Park divide the park into East and West Districts which are connected by some amazing trails. Also, with more than 30 miles “trail run worthy routes”, access to unique geological formations, and spectacular vistas atop the division of ecosystems… its an experience that should not be missed. Next up??? The talus caves of Pinnacles National Park.
What to plan your adventure to this amazing National Park? – check out this Link
