National Park Guide

Pinnacles National Park

California, US

Towering volcanic spires, talus caves, and California condors soaring above a dramatic landscape forged by ancient eruptions.

26,606

Acres

Trails

2013

Established

350,000

Annual Visitors

Quick Info

Season

Year-round

Entrance Fee

$30 per vehicle

Nearest Airport

San Jose International Airport (SJC), 1.5 hours

Best Months

March, April, October

Highlights

Bear Gulch Cave
Balconies Cave
High Peaks Trail
California condor viewing
Rock climbing on volcanic spires

Park Map

Explore trailheads, hotels, and points of interest

Top Trails

Featured trailheads in Pinnacles National Park

Condor Gulch Trail

Moderate

5.3 miles round trip

1,300 ft gain

Bear Gulch Cave Trail

Moderate

2.2 miles round trip

300 ft gain

High Peaks Trail

Strenuous

6.7 miles loop

1,835 ft gain

Balconies Cave Trail

Moderate

2.4 miles round trip

300 ft gain

Old Pinnacles Trail

Easy

2.3 miles round trip

200 ft gain

About Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park preserves a field of eroded volcanic formations rising sharply from the rolling hills of central California. The park is renowned for its talus caves, world-class rock climbing, and as a critical habitat for the endangered California condor.

In-Depth Guide

Pinnacles National Park Guide: Best Hikes, When to Visit & Where to Stay

Plan your trip to Pinnacles National Park. Top hikes, best months to visit, where to stay, and essential tips for exploring California's talus caves and condor habitat.

12 min read

Weather Overview

Average monthly temperatures

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Hotels

3 options near Pinnacles National Park

Weather

Monthly climate data

Best Time to Visit

Month-by-month analysis

Hiking Gear

Expert-tested picks

Where to Stay

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Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Hollister

A clean and modern Marriott property in Hollister offering complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, and spacious rooms ideal for park visitors.

35 min drive$140-220/night

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Ridgemark Golf Club & Resort

A relaxing resort set among rolling hills in Hollister with an 18-hole championship golf course, on-site restaurant, and spacious rooms with private patios overlooking the fairways.

30 min drive$130-200/night

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Hollister Inn

A budget-friendly motel in the heart of Hollister offering free WiFi, free parking, and express check-in for travelers heading to Pinnacles National Park.

35 min drive$80-130/night

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Compare Pinnacles National Park

See how Pinnacles National Park stacks up against other national parks

Pinnacles National Park vs Joshua Tree National Park

Choose Pinnacles for volcanic spires, talus caves, and California condor sightings. Choose Joshua Tree for vast desert landscapes, outstanding camping, and world-class stargazing.

See full comparison