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When you hear the words “pinnacles” and “California” in the same sentence, you likely think of Pinnacles National Park, which sits east of Highway 101 in southern California. The towering rock spires, woodlands, and canyons captivated about 275,000 visitors in 2022.
But today, we’re not talking about the volcanic landscape of Pinnacles National Park. We’re looking closer at the river basin rock formations called the Trona Pinnacles. These spires were formed tens of thousands of years ago and elicit awe and wonder from travelers. It’s like another planet in these square miles of southern California. Let’s dive in and learn more about the Trona Pinnacles!
What Are the Trona Pinnacles?
The Trona Pinnacles are unique geological features called tufa spires. Trona Pinnacles comes from its calcium carbonate composition, also called tufa.
During the Pleistocene, more commonly known as the Ice Age, this area was under hundreds of feet of water. Searles Lake was part of a series of interconnected lakes from the Owens Valley to Death Valley. Beneath the lake, calcium-rich groundwater combined with the alkaline lake water to grow these underwater tufa pinnacles.
The most recent formations grew approximately 10,000 years ago, while the oldest date back 100,000 years. In 1968, the Trona Pinnacles were designated as a National Natural Landmark. California is home to 37 of these landmarks.
Other designated places include the Audubon Canyon, where the largest known nesting area for great blue herons and great and snowy egrets exists on the Pacific Coast; Mount Shasta, the fifth-highest peak in the state and one of the world’s largest stratovolcanoes; and Imperial Sand Hills, one of the largest dune patches in the U.S.
Pro Tip: Check the Best RV Beach Camping in Southern California before driving out to check the Trona Pinnacles!
Where Are the Trona Pinnacles?
Over 500 tufa spires spread across 14 square miles in the Searles Lake basin of the California desert, about ten miles from the town of Trona. Some are short and stubby, while others are over 140 feet tall. The elevation here is 1,800 feet. The Bureau of Land Management manages this area to protect the unique landscape.
However, dozens of films are shot here every year. You might have seen the Trona Pinnacles in Battlestar Galactica, Star Trek V: The Final Frontier, Disney’s Dinosaur, The Gate II: Trespassers, Lost in Space, or Planet of the Apes. This area looks like you’ve stepped onto another planet or traveled back in time.
How Do You Get To the Trona Pinnacles?
A 5-mile-long dirt road leads from SR-178 to the Trona Pinnacles. You can access this BLM road about 7.7 miles east of the intersection of SR-178 and the Trona-Red Mountain Road. Ridgecrest is one of the largest cities nearby. It’s about 20 miles west of the Trona Pinnacles.
Do You Need a 4×4 To Visit the Trona Pinnacles?
The BLM doesn’t stipulate that the dirt road leading to the Trona Pinnacles can only be accessed by a 4×4 vehicle. The website specifically mentions that “dirt road from SR-178 to the Pinnacles is usually accessible to 2-wheel drive vehicles.”
Caution should be taken if there have been heavy rains in the area, as the road may close. We wouldn’t suggest a 2-wheel-drive vehicle attempting the journey even if the road is open. We also recommend leaving your car at the information boards upon arrival and hiking the rest of the way to see the Trona Pinnacles if you don’t have a high-clearance vehicle.
Things To Know When Visiting the Trona Pinnacles
The Trona Pinnacles are out in the middle of nowhere. You won’t find potable water or facilities except a vault toilet. We recommend bringing plenty of water, no matter what time of year you visit.
Make sure you pack out all trash since there aren’t any dumpsters. Having a picnic is a great idea, but follow Leave No Trace principles. This includes staying on existing trails. Don’t damage vegetation by carving your path through the site. These natural wonders are magical and unique, but protect our public lands when you visit.
Can You Camp At the Trona Pinnacles?
Ridgecrest is your best bet for accommodations near the Trona Pinnacles. Boondocking at the site is permitted, but keep in mind how remote and isolated you are. You won’t have any facilities or amenities.
Also, because it’s desert camping, be prepared for high winds and fluctuating temperatures. Moonrise is an unbelievable time to be at the Pinnacles. It’s an excellent place to set up your tripod for photographers. Your friends will wonder if you’ve stepped foot onto another planet!
Enjoy the Unique Formations of California’s Trona Pinnacles
California is well known for its unique landscapes and natural wonders. It’s home to eight national parks and about 20 other sites like historic trails and national monuments.
Then there are all of the hidden gems like Burney Falls, Glass Beach, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, Point Reyes, and the Trona Pinnacles. The big national parks are amazing. They’ll leave you speechless and inspired. But don’t forget about the lesser-known natural wonders. The Golden State is full of unique landscapes and geological history!
Have you ever visited the Trona Pinnacles in southern California?
