Curator’s statement
Planning on hiking in our nation's newest national park? Located in Central California between Big Sur and I-5, Pinnacles has a wide variety of trails and sights, suiting all types of travelers. Due to its semi-remote location and different entrances, you will want to decide in advance how and when you want to spend your day at the park, but I promise this unique destination is worth it! I combined our trip with a road-trip stay in Paso Robles and Big Sur.
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Things to do
Balconies Cave, Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles is known for its dramatic rock spires, towering pinnacles and talus caves formed by ancient volcanic activity. Highlights include the High Peaks, with stunning panoramic views and challenging hiking trails; the Bear Gulch Cave and Balconies Cave, which are home to bats and feature fascinating underground passages; and the condor viewing areas, where visitors can spot endangered California condors soaring overhead. The park also offers seasonal wildflower displays and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
There is an east and west entrance, with the west entrance accessible via Southern California and the east entrance from the north. We entered the park at the west entrance at the Chaparral parking lot. It is a short walk to the Balconies Cave. To add a longer, moderate hike, continue on to the Balconies Cave loop trail.
From the Chaparral parking lot, you also can access the more strenuous Juniper Canyon Trail, which leads to the dramatic High Peaks trail, which ascends through rugged volcanic spires, narrow rock stairways and steep drop-offs — some sections have handrails bolted into the rock for safety. At its summit, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
You can also access the High Peaks trail from the east entrance, with popular routes combining Bear Gulch Trail and Condor Gulch Trail for a rewarding loop.
Places to eat & drink
Big Sur River Inn Restaurant, Big Sur
Big Sur River Inn Restaurant — Make this your first stop after your day of hiking, whether from Pinnacles or Big Sur itself. Dine inside, on the riverfront patio or straight in the chairs placed in the river to cool off your feet!
Nepenthe — Visit this top-rated restaurant in Big Sur for breakfast, lunch or dinner, with views of the coast. We headed to the Kava Cafe for brunch and didn't have a wait.
Post Ranch Inn — You don't have to stay here to visit this cliff-top resort, but make sure to secure your reservation well in advance.
Carmel Bakery — Stop here on your way in or out for giant pretzels, pastries, cannoli or coffee. It's a popular spot for for a treat or light meal in the heart of Carmel.
Casanova — A charming dinner spot serving French-Italian cuisine.
Need to know
The number one thing to consider when deciding when to visit is weather and time of year. I recommend spring or fall, where there is no rain expected and temperatures are mild. Summer temperatures range from 95 to 105 degrees, and the caves can close for rainy weather due to slippery conditions.
Dress in layers and bring plenty of food and water.
Cell service is limited. Stop at the ranger station for a map and download Google Maps in advance so they are viewable offline.
There are no accommodations in the park, so stay about an hour or two away the nights before and after your trip. I stayed in Paso Robles and Big Sur.
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