Last year Pinnacles National Monument became a National Park, a name change that has already increased visitor interest.  This was our first visit with Pinnacles new name adding it to over 400 U.S. national parks.
But over the years we have enjoyed frequent visits to this interesting region of long ago volcanic activity and geographic turmoil thanks to its location where two tectonic plates collide, the North American plate and the Pacific Plate.
There are entrances at both east and west sides of Park but if you wish to camp or learn about activities at the Visitor Center you must use the East entrance from State Highway 25.
On this visit, which was short, we talked with Ranger Mike Brindeiro and enjoyed a picnic lunch at the day use area.
For more information on Pinnacles National Park call 831-389-4455, on the web at www.nps.gov/pinn.