Since then, people have found many reasons to visit the youngest national park in the system. "It's one of those places that you can describe, but when you leave Pinnacles, it's like this special place that has this intangible affect on you," says Andler. In 2013, Pinnacles National Park saw more than 237,000 recreational visitors, according to the Annual Park Ranking Report.
If you can't manage to make a visit just yet, here's what you have to look forward to.
Memorable Day Hiking
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Source: Peretz Partensky from San Francisco
One of the best ways to experience Pinnacles is with a day hike. Trek along 32 miles of trails; all of which of range in difficulty and scenic opportunities. The best trails include The Bear Gulch Cave Loop and High Peak Trail says Andler.
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campsitePlenty of Wildlife
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From squirrels and wild turkeys to bobcats and butterflies, there's a lot of wildlife walking around this park. In total the park is home to 49 mammals, 22 reptiles, 69 butterflies, 400 bees, 40 dragonflies and 8 amphibians, according to NPS.gov.
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campsiteEpic Rock Climbing
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Source: NPS Photo
Pinnacles National Park is known for its many rock climbing opportunities ranging from easy, beginner climbs to multi-pitch day routes across the Machete Ridge. Refer to the climbing FAQ for details on specific routes and equipment you can use.
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campsiteCalifornia Condors
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Source: NPS Photo
Pinnacles is a release site for the California condor as part of the California Condor Recovery Program, started in 2003. There are now 27 condors flying free in the park—don't forget to look up; you may catch one soaring through the sky.
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campsiteRich Geologic History
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Source: NPS Photo
You can thank plate tectonics and volcanoes for Pinnacles National Park. The geologic history of this park is unique, and as you walk around, the many larger-than-life boulders, rock spires and crags tell the rich and epic story.
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campsiteA Peaceful Respite
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As Andler said, there's something about this park that sticks with you long after you've left. Perhaps it's the feeling you get as you weave between larger-than-life boulders, hike along steep and winding ridges or relax by the peaceful Bear Gulch Reservoir. Take High Peaks Trail or Condor Gulch Loop and you'll know the feeling Andler's talking about.
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campsiteScenic Family Camping
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Source: NPS Photo
Want to get more out of your visit to Pinnacles National Park? Stay overnight at Pinnacles Campground, located within the park. Surrounded by stunning scenery and recreational opportunities, this campground is ideal for your next family camping vacation. Reserve your campsite.
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campsiteDiverse Flora and Fauna
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You'll find five major vegetation habitats at Pinnacles, all of which stem from a long history of interactions between species. Look for the following plant communities as you trek through the park: Chaparral, woodlands, riparian, grasslands, and rock and scree. Take the Pinnacles Vascular Plant List with you to identify all the plants that catch your eye.
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campsiteUnforgettable Features
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Two of the most distinct features at Pinnacles National Park are caves: Balconies Cave (pictured) and Bear Gulch Cave. More than 10 species of bats live here, including the Townsend's Big Eared Bat, considered a sensitive species. Call the park office before you plan a visit to the caves because both are closed during specific times of the year. You can check the seasonal schedule at NPS.gov.
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