Hiking the Condor Gulch to High Peaks Loop is a strenuous route climbing through the park’s volcanic rock formations and crossing the aptly named Steep and Narrow section. Pinnacles National Park had been on my wishlist for awhile, so I added an extra day before speaking at the Bay Area Travel & Adventure Show to visit my 46th national park.

After spending the night in Hollister, I drove about 40 minutes, winding through rolling ranch land before turning into the craggy terrain the park is known for. It was one of those rainy mornings that makes you wonder if it’s worth hitting the trail.

Drizzle turned into drama, with cloud-splashed vistas, mossy trails, tricky steep and narrow sections in the rain, and a stunning show from soaring California condors.

Going Up Condor Gulch Trail

I parked at the Bear Gulch Visitor Center and asked the ranger about trail conditions after heavy overnight rain.  He said I should be ok and suggested going up Condor Gulch Trail first.

Condor Gulch Trail wastes no time heading uphill. The climb is steady, and the scenery gets good fast. After starting beneath ominous clouds, a brief patch of blue sky appeared. The changing light made the namesake pinnacles pop against the dark clouds.

At the one-mile mark, there’s the Condor Gulch Overlook.  Step out onto slick rock to soak in the dramatic panorama from the viewpoint. The sweeping view is jaw dropping and this makes a good turnaround point if you want a shorter hike.

Just beyond the overlook, as I rounded a switchback, I noticed a large bird soaring in circles. No way, I thought. Could it really be a California condor? Then a second appeared, followed by a third.

Another rain shower moved in as I continued toward the High Peaks Trail junction. More condors glided overhead and landed on a rocky outcropping.

A couple was hiking down the gulch and I shared what I was watching.  They had binoculars, making it easy to confirm they are condors.

As the rain increased in intensity, the three of us stood in quiet awe watching these endangered giants, easily recognized by their red heads and bright white wing patches. It was one of those pinch-me moments hikers live for.

High Peaks, Mossy Moment, and a Windy Ridge

The rain stopped as I reached the High Peaks Trail junction, approximately 1.7 miles from the trailhead.

Turning left, I continued climbing. The most sustained ascent was behind me, but the most exciting terrain was still ahead.

After a brief flat, the trail dipped into a surprisingly lush section filled with moss, ferns and twisted trees. It felt dramatically different from the exposed rock formations only minutes earlier.

Clouds moved across the peaks as wind increased along the ridge. Looking back, I had an incredible view of the trail winding through the landscape below.

The Steep and Narrow Section with a Warning

Weather has a sense of humor, especially when you’re a meteorologist solo hiking. Around mile 2.6, heavier rain and gusty wind returned just as I reached the Steep and Narrow section of the High Peaks Trail. There’s a warning sign about narrow and exposed portions.

This part of High Peaks Trail includes narrow ledges, steep stone steps, handrails and footholds carved into the rock. It requires balance, sturdy shoes and comfort with exposure.

Wet rock made the section considerably more challenging. I moved carefully but quickly, hoping to cross before the rain became heavier.

I briefly stopped when movement in a nearby tree caught my eye. More condors were perched among the branches, waiting out the weather.

Descending Toward Bear Gulch

After the Steep and Narrow section, I reached a trail junction near a restroom and began descending toward Bear Gulch.

Low clouds wrapped around the formations, giving the landscape a moody appearance. The steady descent provided some relief after the exposed ridge.

Near the bottom, I considered detouring through Bear Gulch Cave. A cold, wet cave was not particularly tempting at that moment, so I continued toward the parking area.

Bear Gulch Cave closes periodically to protect Townsend’s big-eared bats. Flooding, rockfalls and other hazards can also affect access. Check the current cave status before your visit and carry a flashlight if you plan to enter.

The final portion of my hike wound through the picnic area before returning to my car.

I finished damp, muddy and grinning.

Condor Gulch, High Peaks, Bear Gulch Trail Stats

• Route: Condor Gulch Trail → High Peaks Trail → Bear Gulch

• Distance: Approx. 6 miles

• Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (with lots of stops for condors watching and photos)

• Trail Conditions: Steady incline in Condor Gulch, windy on High Peaks Trail with slick conditions in the steep and narrow sections

• Wildlife Highlight: Multiple endangered California condors

• Scenic Highlight: Panoramic views from the Condor Gulch overlook

• Weather Bonus: Rain = fewer crowds + adventure

Is the Hike Worth The Effort?

Hiking Pinnacles in the rain wasn’t just worth it, this turned into my favorite hike in California to date.  I can’t wait to hike Pinnacles National Park again.  I’d 100% hike this loop again.

This loop combines sweeping views, unusual volcanic formations, a thrilling exposed section, and one of the best opportunities to see California condors in the wild.

Rain added drama to my hike, along with slick rocks and a little extra heart-pounding adventure. Watching multiple condors soar and roost among the High Peaks made the challenging conditions worthwhile.

From Pinnacles, I headed west and spent one night at Casablanca Inn in Santa Cruz. The day before this hike, I visited three National Park Service units in the Bay Area.