Perhaps the cant-miss attraction of the park is Bear Gulch Cave. There is both an upper and lower part. The lower part is almost always open, while the upper part may be open or closed to protect the bat population that calls it home. The park protects the bats and you may find part of the caves closed in late spring or summer due to mating season. The cave itself is what’s known as a talus cave. This is not an underground canyon, but an opening formed between boulders that have fallen and filled a narrow canyon. The piling up and placement of the boulders creates the cave. Located in the eastern part of the park, simply park at the Bear Gulch Day Use Area. Take the Bear Gulch Cave trail about a mile and half to the cave. You may want to bring a flashlight as well as some areas of the cave can get dark.

For those looking for a challenging and adventurous hike in the park, check out the High Peaks Trail. The  trail is a 6.4 mile loop when combined with the Bear Gulch Loop. On the way, you gain over 1,800 feet of elevation on the sometimes-narrow path. Be prepared for a ladder climb as well. The trail is not suitable for those with a fear of heights. On the way, you may see some of the park’s condors and at the top of High Peaks you’ll get an amazing panoramic view of the park and surrounding Gabilan Range. As always, be prepared for extremely hot temperatures in the summer. The trail can get popular, so plan on leaving as early in the day as possible.

For an easier experience, take the Condor Gulch Trail to the overlook. Out and back it’s less than two miles each way, but you’ll still get amazing views of the park. You may also see some of the park’s condors, a sight you can see almost nowhere else. There is no shade on the way and most of the trail is uphill, so be prepared to leave early in the morning to avoid the heat which can become dangerous and oppressive. The trail can also be crowded, so you’ll want to be mindful of times when you may be fighting for space with other visitors. Park at the Bear Gulch Area for the trailhead.