About
Length5.3 mi
ShapeLoop
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain1,300 ft up
Typical time4 hr
TrailheadBear Gulch Day Use Area, east side
SurfaceRocky switchbacks and carved rock steps
Best seasonAvoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day during summer and in warmer weather as there is no shade and temperatures in higher elevations easily become 10 degrees hotter than the parking areas.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityDifficulty: Strenuous Distance: Approx. 5.3 mile loop Trail width: Approx. 2 - 4 feet Maximum grade: 1500 feet Surface Composition: dirt, rock Exposure: No shade In summer, expect temperatures in the High Peaks and Chalone Peaks to be 10 degrees hotter than parking areas. Avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day. *Service animals permitted
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views🦌 Wildlife

Walk through the heart of the Pinnacles rock formations , particularly along the Steep and Narrow section of the High Peaks Trail. Endangered California Condors frequent these rocks. Make sure to maintain a safe distance and keep wildlife wild. Strenuous hike with excellent views; Loop hike of about 5.3 miles; Add Rim and Moses Spring trails to extend the loop to 6.2 miles; For a shorter option hike 1 mile to the Condor Gulch viewpoint and back for an elevation gain of about 600 feet. 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
The Condor Gulch overlook at one mile is a fine turnaround on its own. Pinnacles is one of the release sites for the California condor recovery programme - look for the numbered wing tags.
Location

Bear Gulch Day Use Area, east side

Other Hikers
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