Keep wildlife wild!
This spring break, I visited Pinnacles National Park for the first time. After the long car ride, my family and I had a picnic in a shaded area. There was a refreshing breeze and a few squirrels waiting nearby. We didn’t feed the squirrels though.
Then, we chose a short hike to the Bear Gulch Reservoir. It started through a forested area surrounded by oak trees. There were huge red pinnacle rocks in the distance and large boulders beside the trail. We hiked through passages in tunnels and around large boulders.
As we hiked higher, we were surrounded by rocky formations. The sun shined more brightly without the shade from the trees, and the trail beneath us turned from dirt into a grey slate. We stopped by a cliff to admire the beauty. My dad stood close to the edge of the cliff, but I did not get as close because of my slight fear of heights. Up above, there were large California Condors soaring near the cliffs.
Pinnacles is stunning! I learned not only about geology, but also wildlife (while getting a physical workout!) My experience taught me the importance of preserving national parks. When I grow up, I hope I’ll be able to take my dad with me instead and come back to the park.
Sincerely,
Pinnacles National Park
The jagged rocks at this park formed from the remains of an ancient volcano. This volcano used to be located about 200 miles south of its current location, but tectonic forces along the San Andreas Fault moved these rocks at a pace of a little more than half an inch per year over a period of 23 million years to what is now the national park. Today, these towering spires attract hikers and climbers, as well as falcons, golden eagles and California condors. The park also features grasslands, chaparral, forests and rare talus caves.
State(s): California
Established: 1908
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Greetings from Pinnacles National Park
Camping at the Pinnacles National Park was an expedition that lingered in my mind long after the tents were packed away. What began as a simple outing with classmates quickly unfolded into a breathtaking journey, leaving profound impressions on my soul. Day one was an overture of awe and excitement.…
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Greetings from Pinnacles National Park
Here at Pinnacles National Park, where these rocks have been shaped by nature's work, I walked on the Moses Spring Trail down to the Bear Gulch Reservoir. Walking on the trail, I was treated to many different rock formations. These rock formations varied in many ways and shapes. Up close,…
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Greetings from Pinnacles National Park
My family and I visited Pinnacles in late May and decided to hike the Moses Spring Trail up to Bear Gulch Reservoir. As I weaved between the boulders, I felt akin to a mountaineer exploring the trail for the first time. Tall rock spires colored umber and pale coral towered…
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