Last updated: July 20, 2024
Thing to Do
Hike Condor Gulch Trail to High Peaks Trail Loop
NPS Photo
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. Most of the trails are exposed. Bring a map and use the best judgement of your abilities. In winter, wear warm clothes and waterproof clothing. In summer, do not hike during the hottest parts of the day (10AM-4PM). Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Always wear proper footwear 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. Let someone know your plan before you go.
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.
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. Most of the trails are exposed. Bring a map and use the best judgement of your abilities. In winter, wear warm clothes and waterproof clothing. In summer, do not hike during the hottest parts of the day (10AM-4PM). Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Always wear proper footwear 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. Let someone know your plan before you go.
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.
Details
Duration
3-5 Hours
Activity
Hiking
Age(s)
All ages, but minors must be with an adult parent or guardian
Suggest 7 and older
Suggest 7 and older
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
No additional fee to hike but there is a park entrance fee. Learn more about Fees and Passes.
Location
Bear Gulch Day Use Area
Enter the east side of the park via CA-25 to Pinnacles East Entrance Road. Stay left of the fork to Bear Gulch Day Use.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Avoid 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.
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: Approx. 5.3 mile loop
Trail width: Approx. 2 - 4 feet
Maximum grade: 1500 feet
Surface Composition: dirt, rock
Exposure: No shade
*Service animals permitted
Distance: Approx. 5.3 mile loop
Trail width: Approx. 2 - 4 feet
Maximum grade: 1500 feet
Surface Composition: dirt, rock
Exposure: No shade
*Service animals permitted