Pinnacles National Park | American Tour Association

A PLACE TO REMEMBER

Make room for the wonder.

Rock formations rise above chaparral-covered hills in a park best explored on foot. Choose an entrance before traveling, then pick a walk that matches the weather and your party’s fitness.

A massive rock spire with California condors flying above the peak. — The best views of Pinnacles' rocks can be enjoyed from the west side with almost no effort required.
NPS Photo/ Katherine Fielding · Photography credit

Rock formations appear behind a grassy hillside covered with oak trees and purple and yellow flowers — Native grasses and wildflowers cover hillsides in spring
NPS Photo · Photography credit

BUILD YOUR OWN PARK DAY

Places to consider

01Pinnacle viewpoints
02Bear Gulch area
03Condor watching from suitable overlooks

Choose the stops that suit your time and your party. These are ideas for exploring, rather than a fixed itinerary or a promise that every road, trail or facility will be open.

Before you set out

East and west entrances are not connected by a road through the park. Talus caves may close; heat can make exposed hikes demanding.

Give the day room

Allow time for the approach, parking and breaks. Pick walks for the least mobile members of your party, and leave space for weather or a change of plans.

Bring your group

Confirm vehicle access, drop-off and parking with the park. Check any guided tours, transport and accessibility arrangements before fixing the rest of the itinerary.

Official park visitor guide ↗Current conditions ↗

Check the official NPS guide for current access, fees, passes, reservations and permits. Gateway names identify useful surrounding communities or access areas, not exact entrance directions. Photographs may show earlier seasons or conditions.