On our way to Pinnacles, Robert, Ryan and I were faced with the obstacle of a flat tire. Ryan pulled through with his mechanic skills, changed the tire, and we hardly thought twice about continuing on our venture. We got to Pinnacles a while later and our minds were mutually blown by the wondrous and immense beauty of those peaks. After scrambling up some large rocks and up some very steep and narrow trails, we made it up to the peak and it felt glorious. We had a few leisure stops along the way, enjoying snacks at some majestic views. We made it our mission to try to spot a condor, so on the way up we stopped and inspected essentially every single bird we saw free flying. We were losing hope; we made it to the top and started heading back down without luck. But then, upon descending we saw a larger bird in the distance. For a good while all three of us stared in silence as we made out the distinct white triangle markings, the enormous wingspan and the red head… it was indeed a California Condor! The feeling of seeing that endangered species tickled my humanity in a way that was indescribably fulfilling. #sfsu
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
As I unboarded the school bus, my shoes unevenly hitting the gravely road, I stretched my legs and looked around curiously. "This bus ride had better be worth it," was my only thought during the two-and-a-half hour journey from my school, where we left at 6:00 am, in the cold,…
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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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