Pinnacles National Monument Wilderness Additions
 Managing
agency:National Park Service, Pinnacles National Monument.
Size: Approximately 2,715 acres.
Location: In San Benito and Monterey counties, 10 miles west of Soledad.
Description: The Pinnacles National Monument was established 1908 to
protect the unique pinnacles rock formations and associated rock fall caves. The pinnacles formations
are ancient volcanic remnants that have been moved many miles northward by the nearby San Andreas Fault.
The unusual caves formed when massive boulders fell from the pinnacles and filled narrow canyons.
The pinnacles and caves remain the Monument's outstanding scenic features, but the Monument also
preserves significant, ungrazed central coast ecosystems, including important riparian areas.
 The
primary vegetation found in the additions is chamise with some oak and pine
occurring along intermittent creeks. Pines also occur on the ridge tops, which
catch more moisture. The area is within the California chaparral province, but
also features some oak savanna.
These additions have added 2,715 acres to the Pinnacles National Monument Wilderness
and provide needed protection for Chalone Creek, one of the Pinnacles' most important resources.
McCabe Canyon, a tributary of Chalone Creek, is important riparian habitat and a fine undisturbed
canyon. The additions also include a high ridge, quite visible from the High Peaks, that preserve
critical habitat for several rare plant species. The additions will also relieve backcountry
overcrowding by providing expanded hiking opportunities. Pinnacles National Monument is a
very popular destination for hikers who live in the San Francisco Bay Area.
For additional information, please contact:
Dave Westman
Sierra Club
827 Broadway, Suite 310
Oakland, CA 94607
(510) 622-0290 X220
Email: dave.westman@sierraclub.org
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Just three miles off of Interstate 80, 
