The incredible rock canyons, towers, spires, and caves of Central California’s Pinnacles National Park, all created by volcanic activity, are a true mainstay of the landscape there. Home to California condors, big-eared bats, frogs, and an incredible variety of wildflowers, the park is a wonderland of those wishing to hike, explore, or rock climb within its boundaries. It is one of the United States newest national parks, established in 2013.
Our family visited Pinnacles National Park in September of 2015, and we did so with “Nonnie” (my Mom), who was interested in taking Brady and Hayden to their first National Park. We had a wonderful weekend together, exploring and learning about the park, and making memories together in such a beautiful place.
During our time in Pinnacles, we hiked through both entrances to the park, exploring giant boulders, dark caves, and climbing, and, despite my misgivings, everyone had amazing stamina and “mostly” good attitudes. This was a win, especially with two five-year olds in tow!
Grace, Brady, and Hayden each worked toward their Junior Ranger badges, which they were incredibly proud of, and we loved our “creature comforts” at the Inn at Pinnacles, the lovely B&B that we called home for three days – delicious home cooked breakfasts, a great pool, awesome view, amazing stargazing, and the nightly wine and cheese hour made it all a trip to remember. We all had such a wonderful time exploring nature’s beauty and charting our own adventure!
Our first day in Pinnacles began with exploring the Pinnacles National Park Visitor Center, which was an incredible way to introduce the kids to the national park, and a great opportunity for them to learn about what makes this place so special.
The kids also all really enjoyed learning about the California Condor, one of the most notable animal inhabitants of the park. There are 22 of these birds in Pinnacles National Park, and they are hard to miss with a 10 foot wingspan. These, combined with another 30 in Big Sur, make up the ENTIRE population of Condor Birds in the world.
The kids also all really enjoyed learning about the California Condor, one of the most notable animal inhabitants of the park. There are 22 of these birds in Pinnacles National Park, and they are hard to miss with a 10 foot wingspan. These, combined with another 30 in Big Sur, make up the ENTIRE population of Condor Birds in the world.
On our second day in Pinnacles National Park, we set out to hike the Bear Gulch Cave Loop to Bear Gulch Reservoir. This hike, at a little over two miles, was perfect for a bunch of little legs, and the kids really enjoyed the caves. Again, bring headlamps or flashlights for the little ones to make this truly an adventure!
