5 Must-Take Hikes in Pinnacles National Park

You’re going to need lots of water 

Pinnacles National Park is a beautiful and rocky park located in Central California. Pinnacles was designated a national monument in 1908 and became a national park in 2013.  The park is made up of two parts:an extinct volcano on the east side and a series of canyons and spires on the west. The two sides of the park are connected by hiking trails.

The park is open year-round, but the summer months can be extremely hot and shade is hard to find throughout the park. One of the only cooler and shaded areas are the talus caves, which are located on the west side of the park.

The talus caves formed when large boulders fell and became wedged. Scientists study different bats living in these talus caves. In fact, there are over 13 different species of bats that have been found in Pinnacles National Park!

Thanks to these caves and the challenging rocky terrain, mountain climbers from around the world come to Pinnacles National Park to test their skills. The park offers multiple routes for climbers of all levels, from beginner to expert.

Not to be outdone are the many hiking trails located throughout Pinnacles National Park. These trails offer hikers stunning views of the rocky terrain and a chance to see some of the many animals that live in the park. 

Keep in mind Pinnacles National Park requires a fee to be paid to enter the park and to use any of these maintained trails.

Parks and Landmarks have put together a list of the five must-take hikes in Pinnacles National Park.

Balconies Cave Trail

If the day is hot (and it most likely will be in the park), the Balconies Cave trail offers some shade and a cave hiking experience to help you stay out of the sun.

With minimal elevation and a flat trail, this cave is perfect for beginner hikers or those with small children. The cave allows you to see some of the bats that live in Pinnacles National Park up close and experience firsthand the talus caves formed by large boulders.

Total Distance: 2.60 miles

Elevation Gain: 400 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• Dogs are not allowed on this trail
• This trail can be closed at certain times of the season, such as the spring, due to high water
• This trail can be closed during bat mating season to protect the colonies that live in the caves
• If you plan on entering the caves on this trail, a flashlight or headlamp is required
• This trail is very rocky — Proper hiking footwear is recommended

High Peaks Trail

Looking for some of the most stunning views of the park's rock formations? The High Peaks trail is for you.

This trail offers a longer hike with steeper sections, but the payoff is worth it. This trail also has a diverse animal population, so keep your eyes peeled for lizards, snakes, and condos that call this trail home.

Total Distance: 6.40 miles

Elevation Gain: 1840 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• Little to no shade on this trail
• No dogs allowed on this trail
• This trail has a heat warning, and it is recommended that each hiker bring at least 3 liters of water.
• This trail is very rocky — Hiking boots and hiking poles are recommended

Old Pinnacles Trail Loop

Get ready to see some rocky climbers in action as you adventure through the Old Pinnacles trail.

This hike is very popular with rock climbers due to the number of climbing sites located off the trail. The Old Pinnacles trail is also one of the most diverse hikes in the park, with a variety of different landscapes and ecosystems to explore. You can see most of the park taking this trail as you move from the west side to the east.

Total Distance: 9.50 miles

Elevation Gain: 1732 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• Little to no shade on this trail
• No dogs allowed on this trail
• This trail has a heat warning, and it is recommended that each hiker bring at least 3 liters of water.
• If you plan on entering the caves on this trail, a flashlight or headlamp is required
• Be aware of rock climbers during your hike

Moses Spring and Rim Trail Loop

From a lush forested area to dark caves and even a gorgeous spring, the Moses Spring and Rim loop has it all. This is one of the more popular trails in Pinnacles National Park due to its diversity.

Entering the cave area is filled with adventure with stairs and tight squeezes. This trail is not for those who fear small spaces, but it is an experience you won't want to miss. 

If you're thinking about taking a dip into the spring, check the temperature of the water first, as it can be extremely hot.

Total Distance: 3.48 miles

Elevation Gain: 524 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• No dogs allowed on this trail
• If you plan on entering the caves on this trail, a flashlight or headlamp is required
• The caves can be closed at certain times of the year for wildlife

Condor Gulch Trail to High Peaks Trail Loop

Looking for a challenge? Then the Condor Gulch to High Peaks trail will push your hiking skills to the limit. This hike is not for beginners, as it is one of the longer and more difficult trails in Pinnacles National Park.

It's recommended that you take this trail counterclockwise as the hottest part of the trail is in the beginning. This trail will take you through some of the park's most scenic areas with a recommendation of starting this trail as early as possible to avoid the heat as it can quickly become unbearable.

Total Distance: 5.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 1630 feet

Difficulty: Hard - Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• No dogs allowed on this trail
• If you plan on entering the caves on this trail, a flashlight or headlamp is required
• This trail is only recommended if you have a high physical fitness level or have experience hiking
• The caves can be closed at certain times of the year for wildlife
• This trail has a heat warning, and it is recommended that each hiker bring at least 3 liters of water.
• This trail is very rocky — Hiking boots and hiking poles are recommended

From easy to hard, there's a trail for everyone at Pinnacles National Park. With so many different options, deciding which hike to take can be tough. But with this list of five must-take hikes in Pinnacles National Park, you're sure to find the perfect trail for your next adventure.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your hike today!