About
Length (round trip)5.3 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain100 ft up
Typical time3 hr 30 min
TrailheadOld Pinnacles trailhead, east side
SurfaceFlat sandy creek bed then cave passages
Best seasonSpring and autumn. Summer regularly exceeds 100F with no shade; spring wildflowers peak in March and April.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityDifficulty: Moderate Distance: Approx. 5.4 miles roundtrip Trail width: Approx. 2 - 4 feet Maximum grade: 350 feet Surface Composition: sand, dirt, rock Exposure: Limited shade, no shade on Balconies Cliffs Trail 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. *Service animals permitted
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🌊 River or creek🕳️ Cave or arch

This sunny hike to Balconies Cave leads to towering rock formations: Machete Ridge and the Balconies Cliffs. Traverse through six creek crossings which flow seasonally. Begin at the Old Pinnacles Trailhead. Enter through the Balconies Cave and back around along the Balconies Cliffs. 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
Almost flat the whole way, which makes it the easiest route to the caves from the east side. Torch required, and the creek crossings can be wet in spring.
Location

Old Pinnacles trailhead, east side

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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