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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