Pinnacles National Monument

Pinnacles National Monument is located in both San Benito County and Monterey County, California and covers a total area of 26,606 acres of land. The closest metropolis to the park is the city of Soledad in Monterey County, and about five miles west of the park and 80 miles away from San Jose. To get to the park, drive in the general vicinity of the Gabilan Mountains that are located east of central California's Salinas Valley. 

More specifically, the Pinnacles National Monument has two main districts including the East District and the West District. You can get to the West District through US 101 near Soledad then driving east along CA 146 to the Chaparral area. The East district can be accessed through US 25, south of the city of Hollister, then driving west on CA 146. 

When you get to this National Monument, you will find several attractive features including spire-like rock formations that rise between 500 feet and 1,200 feet high, as well as caves and a variety of volcanic formations that rise above the smooth contours of the abutting land. Another attractive feature of the Pinnacles National Monument is the variety and beauty of the spring wildflowers that can be seen while going on the park's trails. 

The park is also a habitat to several animal species. Besides appreciating the beautiful splendor of the park, you can also get to enjoy several recreational activities including hiking, camping, interpretive programs, wildlife viewing, and rock climbing. The park also welcomes dogs and other pets into the park, but you should keep in mind that there are some regulations that you are expected to follow when in the park. 

Some of the rules concerning your dog include always keeping your dog on a six-foot leash, respecting the park resources, and ensuring that you know areas of the park that you are allowed to visit with your pooch. Areas that you cannot visit with your dog include all park trails except for Bacon Ranch Road and all park buildings. That said, you can visit parking lots, campgrounds, picnic areas, and paved roads within the park.