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National Park · CA
Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles is quietest in January and September and busiest in April.
Around 23 million years ago, a series of volcanic eruptions shaped the landscape that is now Pinnacles National Park. The remnants of these ancient eruptions have formed a striking terrain of rocky spires and deep canyons. Visitors can explore diverse environments, from chaparral and oak woodlands to the cool, shaded depths of canyon floors.
346K recreation visits a year on average (2023–2025)
Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Jul 2026 · alerts checked Jul 10, 2026. How this is calculated →
Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe
Pick a month to visit Pinnacles
This week
7-day forecast
| Day | Conditions | High | Low | Precip chance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wed 26 | Clear | 97°F | 65°F | 0% |
| Thu 27 | Overcast | 93°F | 69°F | 5% |
| Fri 28 | Overcast | 87°F | 66°F | 12% |
| Sat 29 | Clear | 87°F | 53°F | 1% |
| Sun 30 | Fog | 81°F | 51°F | 1% |
| Mon 31 | Clear | 80°F | 49°F | 0% |
| Tue 1 | Clear | 84°F | 51°F | 6% |
Forecast data by Open-Meteo
Source: Open-Meteo
Weather
Monthly climate normals
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Precip |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 63°F | 34°F | 3.5" |
| February | 64°F | 36°F | 3.5" |
| March | 68°F | 38°F | 2.8" |
| April | 72°F | 39°F | 1.0" |
| May | 80°F | 43°F | 0.6" |
| June | 89°F | 47°F | 0.1" |
| July | 96°F | 50°F | 0.0" |
| August | 96°F | 50°F | 0.0" |
| September | 92°F | 48°F | 0.1" |
| October | 83°F | 43°F | 0.7" |
| November | 70°F | 37°F | 1.3" |
| December | 62°F | 33°F | 3.1" |
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, PINNACLES NM, CA US
Know before you go
Fees & hours
- Entrance fee
- $30 — This pass is valid for 1-7 days and includes everyone traveling in a single, private (non-commercial) vehicle up to 15 passengers to Pinnacles East Entrance and West Entrance.
- Hours
- Entrance to the east side of Pinnacles National Park is open 24 hours, 7 days a week, including holidays.
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Park Closure
Bear Gulch Cave Closed
Due to maternal bat colonies present in Bear Gulch Cave, and in line with the expected seasonal closure scheduling, the Bear Gulch Caves are currently closed. The Balconies Cave remains open, and accessible from the Balconies or Old Pinnacles trails.
Details on nps.gov → - Information
Heavy Traffic and High Visitation Alert
Pinnacles experiences extremely high visitation on weekends, holidays, and during favorable weather, especially in the spring. Expect long lines and delays between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. If you're planning to hike the High Peaks, Condor Gulch, Balconies, or Moses Spring Trail, it’s recommended to arrive before 8:00 am (parking may fill earlier). Additionally, campground access may be temporarily delayed during peak periods of visitation when ALL incoming traffic is held.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Hot Conditions
Limit strenuous hiking to early morning and late evening hours. Expect temperatures in the High Peaks and Chalone Peak to be at least 10 degrees hotter than parking areas. Drink plenty of water and carry at least one liter of water for each hour of hiking. Bring salty snacks, a hat, and sunscreen for the hike. Know the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses. In case of a heat related emergency get to a cool place and seek help immediately.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Restroom/Water Access Unavailable At West Visitor Contact Station
Please be advised that the West Visitor Contact Station restroom and water station is currently unavailable. Drinking water and restrooms are available at the Chaparral Parking Area. Please carry extra water and plan accordingly.
Source: NPS Data API
FAQ
Pinnacles questions
When is the best time to visit Pinnacles?
Pinnacles is least crowded in January, September, and October. April is the busiest month, so visiting outside it means thinner crowds and easier parking.
How much does it cost to visit Pinnacles?
Entrance to Pinnacles costs $30 (This pass is valid for 1-7 days and includes everyone traveling in a single, private (non-commercial) vehicle up to 15 passengers to Pinnacles East Entrance and West Entrance.).
When is Pinnacles busiest?
Pinnacles is busiest in April, when crowds rate 10/10 (peak). Expect full parking lots and longer waits; arrive early or choose a quieter month.