Towering rock spires, the remnants of ancient volcanic eruptions, dot the landscape of Pinnacles National Park in California. Massive boulders form talus caves, which are openings formed when boulders piled up and get stuck in narrow canyons on mountain slopes. The park has some of the most unique trails that allow you to see and walk through these caves up close. The park is home to deer, bobcats, foxes, coyotes and mountain lions among others. It is also home to the magnificent condor, once extinct in its natural habitat. The park is also a hot spot for rock climbing, where there are opportunities for all skill levels.

Established as a national park in 2013, the park is one of the least visited in the continental US, so overcrowding is not normally a problem. The park is about a three hour drive from San Francisco and San Jose. There is one campground near the east entrance. You’ll want to reserve in advance as there are a very limited number of spots. The weather can be oppressively hot in the summer. You’ll find comfortable temperatures year round, with highs in the 60’s even in the winter.