The Pinnacles are located near Hollister, California.
Driving Directions from Merced:
Take 152 through Los Banos over Pacheco Pass. After Casa de Fruita make a L turn onto 156 toward Hollister (but don't go to Hollister!), and a short distance later a L turn on Fairview (stop light). After some miles make a L on to HWY 25, which will take you to the Pinnacles, East side entrance. Driving time is about 2 h 15 minutes.
In April 2001 (marked yellow) we started out at the Chalone Creek Campground (East side), took the High Peaks Trail over the top of the mountain; went down Juniper Canyon Trail to Chaparral Camp Ground, and back through the Balconies Caves and along Chalone Creek back to the campground (West side). If you want to walk through the caves, you must have a flashlight, it's pitch black in there!
In April 2005 we started out on the Condor Gulch Trail, connected with the High Peaks Trail, went over the top of the mountain, and down the High Peaks Trail.
In May 2005 we started the Moses Spring Trail near the Bear Gulch Visitor Center. It's a great trail, and much of it is shaded. If you like, you can go through the Bear Caves, but they might not be open. Check the website for details. (Links below).
Also visit the NP Pinnacles Website:
Pinnacles
Pinnacles Trails
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