Pinnacles
Stop 26 of 51 on the loop. Stay in Soledad CA, give it 2 nights, and plan the day around East / west access not connected by road.
- State
- CA
- Stay in
- Soledad CA
- Nights on this route
- 2
- Month on this route
- May
- Don't miss
- East / west access not connected by road
- Getting here
- 227 mi from Ventura CA, about 4 h 34 min.
- Next stop
- Sequoia, 174 mi, about 3 h 49 min.
About the Park
Around 23 million years ago, a series of volcanic eruptions shaped the landscape that is now Pinnacles National Park. The remnants of these ancient eruptions have formed a striking terrain of rocky spires and deep canyons. Visitors can explore diverse environments, from chaparral and oak woodlands to the cool, shaded depths of canyon floors.
Description from the National Park Service.
Where to Stay
On this route you sleep in Soledad CA. Gateway towns have more lodging, groceries and fuel than the park itself. If you want an in-park lodge instead, the busiest parks book up as early as 13 months out.
Entrance Fees
- $30 Private Vehicle
- $25 Motorcycle
- $15 Per person (walk or bike in)
An $80 America the Beautiful annual pass covers entry at every national park; on a trip like this it pays for itself after three parks. Fees from the NPS, checked 2026-10-18.
Nearby Parks
- Yosemite about 132 mi as the crow flies
- Kings Canyon about 133 mi as the crow flies
- Sequoia about 135 mi as the crow flies
Official site: https://www.nps.gov/pinn/. Route data checked 2026-10-19.