One of my favorite spots for spectacular day-hiking and awesome views is the Pinnacles National Monument. The National Park lies about thirty minutes east of Hwy. 101 and Soledad, California. The West entrance may be accessed from the west using Hwy. 146 out of Soledad; the East entrance and an excellent private campground may be accessed off of Hwy. 25 from Hollister to the north or from Hwy. 198 to the south off of Hwy. 101 near King City. The Monument is a day-use facility, only, although night hiking is permitted. No camping within the park. Camping is available at the private campground mentioned above. For more info, try the LINK below for National Parks Service [NPS.GOV]-or go to [NPS.GOV/PINN]. Believe me, you'll love this place. The Pinnacles
was formed by wind, rain, heat and cold erosion of an ancient volcano. Caves, rock climbing, superb trails, spectacular vistas - it's all here. Experienced hikers must try the
un-maintained North Wilderness Trail, my favorite for solitude, sights and a good hike - hike north out of the Chaparral picnic area, drop into the river bed and canyons, loop back to the Balcony Trail, then back west to Chaparral Ranger Station. Spring and Fall are the best times to visit, but I go year round and I've never been disappointed. There are trails for every level of hiking, from family hikes with children to strenuous hikes. There are caves to explore on both the east and west sides. The Park is also a refuge for predatory
and scavenger birds, such as Condors, Falcons, Eagles, etc. On 1/11/00 the Monument was expanded in size by Presidential Act. It can get very hot in the Summer - bring plenty of water.
Park phone # (831)389-4485
Address: Superintendent - 5000 Hwy. 146, Paicines, CA 95043-9770
Eastside Campground phone # (831) 389-4462
Address: 2400 Hwy. 146, Paicines, CA. 95043
Over President's Day weekend, 2001, I introduced my
friend Terry to the wonders of hiking the Pinnacles. It was Terry's first such
outing, andI am delighted that he loved the experience. Campfire chats
and cooking added to the experience. On our second day we hiked the South
Wilderness Trail out of the east Campground. What a pleasure. The
moderately difficult trail runs about 3 miles one way along Chalone Creek, through
pines, oaks, chaparral and various riparian foliage. Evidence of heavy
rooting by wild pigs indicates a fair chance of seeing the wild pigs if one
walks quietly and remains alert. We weren't lucky that day. At 50+
years-old, Terry proved that one is never too old to give hiking a try, and his
presence for the weekend was fun for me, as well.
