News Release

West Side Closed Effective March 20, 2020

Date: March 20, 2020
Contact: Christopher Symons, 831-389-4362

Pinnacles National Park is announcing modifications to operations to implement the latest guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and local and state authorities to promote social distancing. As of March 20, 2020, to keep in compliance with CDC guidelines and local health orders, the West side of the park will be closed.

Starting afternoon of 3/20/20, all visitors must enter from the East side of the park, by way of Highway 25. The West Pinnacles entrance gate will be shut, and there will be no access on that side of the park except by hiking trails, though law enforcement will remain present. This comes in addition to the closures of the High Peaks Steep and Narrow, Balconies Cave, Bear Gulch Cave, and shuttle services.

While most restroom facilities will remain open, the restrooms at Scout Peak, Chalone Peak, and Peaks View will be closed. Where it is possible to adhere to the latest health guidance, Park Rangers will be available to answer questions, at tables outside and on trails. The campground is still set to remain open, along with the camp store, though social distancing protocols will be required to be maintained throughout.

“The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners at Pinnacles National Park is our number one priority. The National Park Service (NPS) is working with the federal, state, and local authorities to closely monitor the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. We will notify the public when we resume full operations and provide updates on our website and social media channels,” said Park Superintendent, Blanca Alvarez Stransky.

“We urge visitors to do their part when visiting Pinnacles by following the CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases such as: maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick. We also strongly encourage visitors to make themselves aware of Monterey and San Benito county health ordinances and shelter-in-place orders that can impact travel to the park,” added Stransky.

For high-risk populations, such as the elderly and people with underlying conditions, we ask that they take extra caution and follow CDC guidance for those at higher risk of serious illness.