Trail Map of High Peaks & Balconies Cave, Pinnacles NM

Moderate: 8.5 miles, Full day

Overview: The striking terrain of the Pinnacles National Monument might make you feel like you're at least a couple of state borders away from the San Francisco Bay Area, but in truth this national park is less than a hundred miles south of San Jose.

Our recommended route combines two of the most popular trails in the park - boasting caves, some tight squeezes in high places and to top it all off, the chance to spot the endangered Californian condor.

Elevation gain:
• 1,800ft (from 1,000 - 2,600ft)

Tips:
• Summer conditions can be fierce on hikers in this park, so plan to tackle this park in cooler weather and remember to bring plenty of water. There is a water spigot at the West Chaparral parking lot which comes in useful.
• Bring a flashlight or headlamp for the short yet pitch-black section of the Balconies Cave.
• Check the park's official website for trail closures in the winter/spring nesting season.
• A day use fee is payable at the park.

Alternatives:
• Balconies cave short semi-loop hike from the Chaparral entrance, with minimal elevation gain.
• High Peaks loop trail from Bear Gulch, which boasts a shorter route to the top of the mountain, but without the Balconies Cave experience.