Pinnacles
Pinnacles National Park is a striking volcanic landscape of soaring spires, rugged cliffs, and talus caves in central California, near Salinas and Paso Robles. Visitors come for challenging hikes, climbing routes, and cave exploration — all amid a history of volcanic eruptions, faulting, and wildlife. Expect warm summers and cool, wet winters, with year-round trail options.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | California |
| Subregion | California Central Coast |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Monterey County |
| District | Pinnacles District — Bureau of Land Management |
| City | Pinnacles National Park |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 36.4906 |
| Longitude | -121.1755 |
| Maps |
11:57 AM LOCAL TIMEPinnacles National Park is a geologically young volcanic landscape carved by tectonic forces along the San Andreas Fault. Sandstone spires rise dramatically from the valley floors, while talus caves—hidden passages beneath mounds of rocky debris—offer unique passageways for bats and adventurous hikers. The park's trail network features steep ascent routes to overlookramps and gentle loops through oak woodlands and grasslands. Climbers are drawn to exposed sport and trad routes on the spire faces, while backcountry skiers and snowshoers can access adjacent routes in winter. The park is also home to diverse wildlife like Puma concolor, Ceryle rudis kingfishers, and migrating Vireo species. Year-round, visitors enjoy sunrise vistas, stargazing, and learning about fault movement and volcanic history from park signage and ranger programs.
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