PINNACLES NATIONAL MONUMENT

Your first sight of the volcanic rock formations yields a sigh at their majestic 700' towers, a glimpse of how small we really are in comparison to the mighty forces of nature. That appreciation stays with you throughout your visit to Pinnacles National Monument, a unique jewel in the crown of the National Park Service. Pinnacles encompasses the remnants of a long-extinct volcano and its surrounding areas. While it is one park, it's divided into East and West sections that are not accessible from one another. Family editor, Cheryl Von Flue, and I took our children hiking in the Western section, and were pleasantly surprised.

Highlights:
Cheryl says: "Spring is the best time to visit, with the wildflowers coming into bloom and the temperature mild and comfortable. The whole park is splendid in a rugged sort of way, and photo opportunities abound, much to Brittney's (11) delight. There's plenty of sunshine to brighten the path, and plenty of shade for resting along the way."
Julie adds: "Getting there is half the fun. The mile-and-a-half Balconies Trail has a lot of interesting rock formations, plants, and skylines along the way to the caves. Don't get stuck in tunnel vision and neglect the beauty of the trail itself. Once we got to the mouth of the caves, we did have to duck under some of the roof sections. That required those of us who are larger people to crawl for a couple of feet, but the water wasn't that cold (ha!) and it added to the sense of adventure."

Other things not to be missed include:

· Rock Climbing There are plenty of opportunities for your youngsters to be King of the Mountain, regardless of what size that mountain may be :. Lizzie (3) repeatedly did her best Leo imitation, with her arms up and "I'm on top of the world" shouted at the top of her lungs.
· The books and other materials at the Ranger Station Pick up your Junior Ranger guide for a dollar, fill it out during your trip (or later), and return it to be designated a Junior Ranger. Many other educational materials available at low cost at the Station.
· Creekbeds Illustrate the principles of erosion using stones and the ~6" deep creek. Or just let the kids have a good time peering over the footbridges or damming the creek. It's a safe environment to play in, and the water was shallow enough not to worry.
· The Balconies Caves If the thought of pitch-black, warm holes with steep grades excites rather than frightens you, then the Balconies Caves are for you. With no spelunkers in our group, and usually brave David (7) absolutely terrified (Mom, too), we opted instead to turn around and go back through the more "friendly" talus caves. Jenna (8) vows she'll return to explore the caves with her Dad. The rest of us will opt to wait outside!

If you're looking for a wonderful day in nature, some family "together time", and an adventure, Pinnacles is a great choice. The drive from Salinas is a leisurely hour and change, and the unpolished beauty is well worth the trip.

Out & About Helpful Hints: Do stop and pay your day-use fee at the Ranger Station. They have a wealth of knowledge to share about the Park, and can answer any questions before you set out on your hike.

Kid Safety Considerations: Wear sturdy shoes, hiking boots if you have them. Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks if your hike is going to be a long one. If you have small children with you, you might want to skip the Balconies Cliffs - the trail can be narrow with a considerable drop off. Don't forget your flashlights if you plan to explore any of the caves or talus caves (technically not actually caves - two cliffs with a rock roof). If you're going in the Spring, don't bring anything that can't get wet. Wading in the streams and water in the talus caves is much of the fun and adventure!

(c) 2000 Julie Gentry. Note: this article first appeared in Monterey County Family Magazine