Machete Ridge rises about 700 feet above the beautiful volcanic-formed Pinnacles National Park located in Salinas and San Benito counties in Central California.
It is a popular mountain-climbing attraction, but be aware that it can be closed during certain times of the years because of raptor activity. Raptors include the incredible California Condor.
The park is composed of “rock spires, ramparts, and crags that bear no resemblance to the nearby foothills {and} dominate the landscape here,” according to a Pinnacles National Park brochure.
“Massive monoliths, sheer-walled canyons, and boulder-covered caves define millions of years of erosion, faulting, and tectonic plate movement,” according to the brochure. “Rising out of the chaparral-covered Gabilan Mountains, east of central California’s Salinas Valley, are the spectacular remains of part of an ancient volcanic field. One third of this field lies 195 miles to the southeast. Does this seem impossible?
Pinnacles National ParkPinnacles National Park photographed by Glenn Franco Simmons. Pinnacles used to be a national monument, but it was changed to a national so it could be preserved.
“It is part of the story of the San Andreas Fault Zone, which runs just east of the park, and of the forces that have shaped this landscape for millions of years. It is the story of heat, frost, water, and wind wearing away rock.”
Part of that wearing away resulted in caves, one of which was too small for me to fit in. I’m 6-4 and I had a huge backpack with my two Nikon cameras and three Nikkor lenses, plus an additional 400 Nikkor lens in its own case that I also carried, each time I visited the Pinnacles in the 2010s.
“Fault action and earthquakes also account for Pinnacles’ talus caves, formed when boulders fell into deep, narrow gorges and lodged between the rock walls,” the brochure notes. “These boulders form ceilings and areas of darkness, enticing visitors and many species of bats.
Pinnacles National ParkPart of the Balconies in the beautiful Pinnacles National Park in Central California photographed by Glenn Franco Simmons.
“Pinnacles’ topography is not all spires and crags. Much of the park consists of rolling hills that range in elevation from 824 feet along Chalone Creek to 3,304 feet atop North Chalone Peak.”
It was in 1908 that Pinnacles became a national monument. Thanks to President Obama’s administration, it became a national park in 2013.
“{I}t includes over 26,000 acres ~ much of which is designated wilderness. The park protects natural and cultural features, recreational opportunities, and open space in an increasingly urban setting.
Machete Ridge, Pinnacles National ParkMachete Ridge at Pinnacles National Park in Central California in San Benito and Salinas counties.
“Pinnacles is a place for rejuvenation. People come to appreciate the unspoiled wilderness, hike the trails, climb rock walls, explore quiet caves, stargaze in clear night skies, and picnic or camp in the shade of ancient oaks. Please help us continue the work of previous generations and preserve Pinnacles National Park for future visitors.”
That is so true. If you are able, visit this beautiful park, but be aware that during certain times of the year, the weather can change suddenly, and that includes wind.