Pinnacles National Monument is
a prime area for rock climbing. Hundreds of routes have been established.
I joined a chapter rock climb here
in the early 1970's, and ascended the rock known as the Anvil,
seen along the trail up to Scout Peak, from the Visitor Center.
This requires an exposed Class 4 move. A rope should be used,
especially for beginners. Trying to get down without a rope would
probably result in a severe injury or a fatality. We also climbed
one of the Sisters (5.4), along, but well off the trail up from
the reservoir. I tried to lead one classic traverse and ascent
on the Hand (5.6), but the rock was just too crumbly, with a few
hundred feet exposure.
On this trip, I simply hiked the
High Peaks Trail. Photos taken December 16, 1998, by Petesthousandpeaks.
BACK TO PETE'S
THOUSAND PEAKS HOME PAGE