Pinnacles National Park Tours and Activities

Pinnacles National Park showing tranquil scenes
Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park which includes wild flowers
Pinnacles National Park showing tranquil scenes and hiking or walking
Pinnacles National Park featuring wild flowers


Monumental rock spires crowd around serene pools, talus caves and boulder-speckled hiking trails in this striking parkland and unique biosphere.

Explore miles of remarkable hiking trails through canyons and grasslands and clamber into the shade of a cave in the Pinnacles National Park. The mountainous parkland protects the ridges, rock formations, oak woodlands and prairies east of the Salinas Valley. Learn about this park’s magnificent landscape, which was formed over millions of years of volcano eruptions, lava flows and tremors. Discover a dynamic environment supporting diverse wildlife.

One of the best ways to explore the park is on foot. Pick from hiking trails that cover 32 miles (51.4 kilometers) of the park. There are easy walks that traverse around some of the Pinnacles’ highlights, as well as challenging walks for a rewarding day of hiking. Stroll through grasslands studded with volcanic rock and spot bobcats, black-tailed deer, lizards and snakes. In the springtime, the landscape is adorned with a colorful show of wildflowers, including California poppies, bush lupine and mariposa lilies.

Look up into the spire-pierced skies and you might see prairie and peregrine falcons or golden eagles. The endangered California condor is also known to fly between the Pinnacles and the Big Sur coast.

Wander into caverns beneath giant boulders that rolled into ravines millennia ago and make your way into the rare talus caves. The Balconies Cave is on the western side of the park, while Bear Gulch Cave is situated to the west and has an on-site Nature Center where you can learn about the resident bats and frogs. Keen rock climbers can tackle the renowned routes, but be sure to check ahead that your route is clear of nesting falcons.

Ranger-guided walks are offered on the park’s eastern and western flanks. Check the Pinnacles Visitor Center or go online to find out what’s happening during your visit.

Pinnacles National Park is located a short distance east of Soledad. It is 80 miles (128.7 kilometers) southeast of San Jose. Park your car at the Visitor Center and ride the free shuttle bus between sites during weekends and holidays, but be aware of high visitor numbers during these periods. The fee to enter the park is valid for a week.

Plan a trip to see Pinnacles National Park

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Top Pinnacles National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Motel 6 Soledad, CA

Motel 6 Soledad, CA

2.5 out of 5
1155 Front Street, Soledad, CA
Motel 6 Soledad, CA
Soledad Motel 8

Soledad Motel 8

2.5 out of 5
1013 Front St, Soledad, CA
Soledad Motel 8
Quality Inn Near Fort Hunter Liggett

Quality Inn Near Fort Hunter Liggett

2.5 out of 5
1190 Broadway St, King City, CA
Quality Inn Near Fort Hunter Liggett
Motel 6 King City, CA

Motel 6 King City, CA

2 out of 5
3 Broadway Circle, King City, CA
Motel 6 King City, CA
Inn at King City

Inn at King City

2.5 out of 5
4 Broadway Circle, King City, CA
Inn at King City
Keefer's Inn

Keefer's Inn

2 out of 5
615 Canal Street, King City, CA
Keefer's Inn
Quaint Country Cottage

Quaint Country Cottage

3 out of 5
Salinas
Quaint Country Cottage
Super 8 by Wyndham Salinas

Super 8 by Wyndham Salinas

2 out of 5
131 Kern Street, Salinas, CA
Super 8 by Wyndham Salinas
Motel 6 Salinas, CA - North Monterey Area

Motel 6 Salinas, CA - North Monterey Area

2 out of 5
140 Kern St, Salinas, CA
Motel 6 Salinas, CA - North Monterey Area
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park offers a range of activities for visitors, including hiking along scenic trails, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching. The park features various hiking trails suitable for all levels, providing stunning views of the unique rock formations. Don't miss the chance to set up camp at Pinnacles Campground, which serves as a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Shopping

For souvenirs, visit San Benito Bene, a charming store located 45.1km away from Pinnacles National Park. If you're up for a drive, you'll discover an array of gifts that showcase local craftsmanship and unique designs.

Recreation

Play a round at Salinas Fairways Golf Course, where the scenic outdoor atmosphere enhances your golfing experience, just 43.5km from Pinnacles National Park. Alternatively, enjoy the lush greens at San Juan Oaks Golf Club, located 45.1km away, perfect for a relaxing day immersed in nature.

Adventure

Explore Bear Gulch Trail, a scenic hike located 966m from Pinnacles National Park, offering stunning views and outdoor adventure. Alternatively, trek the Old Pinnacles Trail, 644m away, where you'll encounter beautiful landscapes and invigorating experiences. For a longer journey, visit the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trailhead, situated 49.9km from the park.

Nightlife

For nightlife near Pinnacles National Park, head to Fremont Peak Observatory, 41.8km away, where you can enjoy stunning stargazing experiences. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the culture and entertainment at the San Benito Stage Company, located 45.1km away, offering delightful performances for the whole family.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Pinnacles National Park

For a memorable visit to Pinnacles National Park in California, immerse yourself in stunning scenery while exploring the park's unique caves and trails. Adventure seekers can enjoy outdoor activities, and nearby attractions like Pinnacles National Monument enhance the experience. With its rich natural beauty, the area is perfect for those craving adventure minutes from Pinnacles NP. Don't miss the chance to discover local churches and other points of interest that add to the charm of this remarkable region.

  • Pinnacles National Park West Entrance: Dive into adventure at this stunning national park entrance. Surrounded by breathtaking views and a wealth of outdoor activities, it's an ideal starting point for exploring the dramatic landscapes of Pinnacles National Park.
  • Bear Gulch Reservoir: Enjoy a romantic escape at this picturesque lake, perfect for picnicking or relaxing by the beach. The scenic beauty and serene atmosphere make it a lovely spot for outdoor enthusiasts and couples alike.
  • Bear Gulch Caves: Embark on an adventurous exploration of these fascinating caves. With unique geological formations and the thrill of spelunking, this site offers an exciting experience for those seeking outdoor fun.

Best time to go to Pinnacles National Park

The best time to visit Pinnacles National Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April56.5°F (13.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
May61.7°F (16.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June69.6°F (20.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July75.0°F (23.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August74.5°F (23.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September71.4°F (21.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October63.9°F (17.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November54.5°F (12.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
December48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pinnacles National Park

To save on your trip to Pinnacles National Park, consider visiting between December and February for lower accommodation prices. Tuesdays generally offer the best rates for stays, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotel options by sorting prices from low to high, and look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings. Additionally, explore free park activities like hiking and wildlife spotting to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Pinnacles National Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Pinnacles National Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Pinnacles National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For the best value, arrange the price filter from low to high to uncover the most affordable deals available.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at Pinnacles National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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