About
Length9.3 mi
ShapeLoop
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain1,300 ft up
Typical time6 hr 30 min
TrailheadChaparral parking area, west side
SurfaceFaint route through chaparral and creek bed
Best seasonSpring and autumn. Summer regularly exceeds 100F with no shade; spring wildflowers peak in March and April.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityDifficulty: Strenuous Distance: Approx. 9.3 miles roundtrip Trail width: Approx. 2 - 4 feet Maximum grade: 1,020 feet Surface Composition: dirt, rock Exposure: Limited shade Flashlight required in the cave; Watch for low ceilings, slippery rocks, and uneven footing. Wading may be necessary in the winter when precipitation creates; Cave may be closed for short periods in winter due to flooding. *Unmaintained trail *Service animals permitted
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🦌 Wildlife

This unmaintained trail climbs along the ridge tops and then descends into Chalone Creek bed, where it is marked by rock cairns. Return along the Old Pinnacles and Balconies Trail. This loop is strenuous and begins from Chaparral Parking on the west side but may be accessed from Old Pinnacles Parking on the east side. Recreate Responsibly. Check park webpage alerts and weather forecast . Hiking, caving, and climbing can be fun but remember-if you get injured, you are a long way from medical help. Cell phones may not work in this remote park. Don't let your guard down when it comes to safety. Be prepared. Let someone know your plan before you go. Most of the trails are exposed. Bring a map and use the best judgement of your abilities. Drinking water is only available in developed areas-there is no water along any of the trails. Carry at least a liter of water for every hour of hiking. In winter, wear warm clothes and waterproof clothing. In summer, do not hike during the hottest parts of the day (10AM-4PM) especially on strenuous trails. Heat and dehydration can be fatal. Hiking steep trails requires more energy and results in greater water loss through sweating. Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes or boots with ankle support due to rocky, uneven terrain and slick and sometimes slippery rocks. In all seasons, carry plenty of water and salty snacks (ex. pretzels, crackers, chips). Stay hydrated with plain water and an electrolyte drink replacement. Stay cool in summer and warm in winter and take rest breaks. Know your limits and turn back if needed. Stay on established trails to help prevent erosion. Wildflowers, pine cones, rocks, and other natural and cultural features are beautiful, but please do not remove or destroy them;leave them for the enjoyment of other visitors. All plants, animals, rocks, and structures in the park are protected by federal law. Be careful where you sit, step, and place your hands: poison oak, stinging nettle, and rattlesnakes are found here. Feeding, approaching, or hunting wildlife is prohibited. Using remotely piloted aircrafts like drones is prohibited. Plan ahead and prepare. Take only pictures and leave only footprints, leaving objects as you find them. Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid loud voices or noises to be considerate of others.

Tips
Barely a trail in places - follow the rock cairns and expect to lose them. Poison oak is thick. The most solitude available in Pinnacles.
Location

Chaparral parking area, west side

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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