Rock Climbing at Pinnacles National Monument, CA

An hour and a half drive south from San Jose leads up into the dry Gabilan Mountains, and Pinnacles National Monument. Pinnacles national Monument is a popular destinations for Bay Area climbers. It provides climbs of all levels, perfect for the first-timer or seasoned veteran alike, with routes ranging from 40 to over 150 feet in length. The weather is typically dry with comfortable climbing temperatures, although it can get quite hot in the summer. Pinnacles’ rock is an unusual volcanic Breccia, and provides many protruding hand and foot holds perfect for climbing. As the name implies, there are many pinnacles and boulders to climb, but some of the best routes lie on crags in Bear Gulch, and the Monolith. The interesting geology of the Monument provides a fantastic playground for climbing and hiking, and a unique outdoor experience. Outback Adventures does not lead trips to this climbing area due to its distance and hot summer temperatures. Please see the guided rock climbing trips and classes section for other Bay Area locations.