June 2, 2025 • 39 mins
Today, we’re heading to California to explore a landscape forged by volcanoes – Pinnacles National Park. In this episode we discuss some of the fascinating features of the park, the geology, some plants and animals, learn about the history of the park, complete an activity from the junior ranger program, and have some recommendations for exploring the park.
Junior Rangers are explorers, learning all about the park’s ecosystems, plants and animals, and how to protect nature. The Junior Ranger program is not just for kids; it's for the young, and the young at heart!
A Special Thanks to Pinnacles National Park!
Source: https://www.nps.gov/pinn/index.htm
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:07):
Welcome to NPJR, where we explore the great outdoors one
National Park at a time. I'm Justin.
And I'm Robin, we encourage you to pause the podcast at any time
and discuss some of our talking points or try answering our
trail trivias. Today, we're heading to a
landscape forged by volcanoes inCentral California to explore
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Pinnacles National Park. Nestled in the Salinas Valley
region of Central California, Pinnacles National Park is a
land of dramatic rock Spires, deep canyons, and rare wildlife.
This park, which covers just over 26,000 acres, making it the
6th smallest National Park by acreage, saw over 354,000
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visitors in 2024. Pinnacles is known for its
distinctive geological formations.
Tall jagged peaks that rise fromthe chaparral covered hills like
Sentinels of a forgotten world. These formations are the
namesake of the park called Pinnacles.
They are remnants of an ancient volcanic field that has
undergone millions of years of tectonic movement, weathering
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and erosion. Over time, the erosion carved
out the dramatic cliffs, caves and Spires that define the
landscape today. The geological history of
pinnacles dates back approximately 23 million years.
During the Miocene, epic volcanic activity in what is now
Southern California produced a complex field of lava flows, ash
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deposits, and volcanic brachia. The San Andreas Fault, a major
tectonic boundary, later tore this field apart, moving a large
portion northwestward over millions of years.
The pinnacles we see today are part of this displaced segment.
Originally located near present day Lancaster, the faults
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relentless activity transported the rock formations some 195
miles north to their current location.
They're still moving today at a rate of about .6 inches, or
1.5cm per year. Long before European settlers
arrived, the area now known as Pinnacles National Park was home
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to indigenous peoples who lived in harmony with the land.
The chalone and moots and branches of the Aloni people
inhabited this region, making use of the diverse ecosystems
for food, medicine and shelter. These communities thrived in the
oak Woodlands and Creekside areas, hunting deer and rabbits,
gathering acorns and using native plants for healing.
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Archaeological evidence, including stone tools, bedrock,
mortars, and fire pits, indicates that these peoples had
a deep and enduring connection to the landscape.
The pinnacles were not only a resource base but also a place
of spiritual significance. With the arrival of Spanish
missions in the 18th century, the traditional way of life for
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the Shalon and Mutsun peoples were forever altered.
Many were relocated to missions such as San Juan Bautista, where
they faced forced labor, disease, and cultural
suppression. Today, descendants of these
groups work to preserve their heritage and promote
understanding of their history within the park.
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The striking beauty and unique geological features of pinnacles
began attracting attention in the late 19th century.
In 19 O Eight, President Theodore Roosevelt designated
the area as Pinnacles National Monument under the Antiquities
Act, primarily to protect its unusual rock formations.
Over the years, the monument grew through additional land
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acquisitions spurred by both scientific interest and
recreational use. In 2013, after a long campaign
led by conservationists, local residents, and lawmakers,
Pinnacles was officially designated as a National Park.
This new status elevated the parks profile and brought
greater resources for preservation, research and
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visitor services. Today, Pinnacle stands as one of
the newest units in the NationalPark Service System, offering
visitors a rich tapestry of natural and cultural history.
Although Pinnacles is not known for large bodies of water, its
hydrology plays a crucial role in sustaining life in this semi
arid region. Seasonal creeks like Bear Gulch
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Creek and Chaloni Creek flow through the park, providing
essential moisture during the wet winter and spring months.
These waterways support a variety of plant and animal life
and help to recharge the groundwater system.
Baragulch Reservoir, a small manmade lake created by a dam built
by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, is one of
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the few standing bodies of waterin the park.
It offers a scenic and beautifulspot for visitors and serves as
a vital habitat for amphibians and birds.
During the dry summer months, water becomes scarce and many of
the parks smaller streams run dry, making the wet season
crucial for the ecosystem's survival.
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Flora and Fauna For being one ofthe smallest national parks,
Pinnacles has an impressive catalog of plants and animals.
It is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 1000 species of
plants and animals. It's varied topography and
climate. Zones from chaparral and oak
Woodlands to talus caves and high rock Spires create numerous
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micro habitats that support an array of life forms.
Among the park's fauna, the California Condor is the most
famous. Pinnacles is one of the few
places in the US where these critically endangered birds are
being reintroduced into the wild.
Visitors may also see Falcons, Golden Eagles, Bobcats, Gray
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foxes, Merriam's chipmunk and even the elusive Mountain Lion.
The park's caves house colonies of Townsend's big eared bats,
which are sensitive to disturbance and protected by
seasonal closures. The park has insects,
amphibians, reptiles, fish, birds and mammals.
According to the NPS website. While several types of snakes
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live in pinnacles, the Pacific rattlesnake is the only venomous
species. Flora includes blue oak, coast
Live Oak, manzanita, Gray pine and various wildflowers such as
California poppies, lupines and Mariposa lilies.
The springtime bloom is particularly spectacular,
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drawing photographers and botanists from across the world.
Though frequently overlooked, invertebrates account for
thousands of wildlife species atPinnacles National Park.
Trail Trivia What percentage of animal species on Earth are
invertebrates? According to butterflies.org,
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97% lacking bones, teeth, fur, or feathers.
These creatures are fascinating.Many possess intricate and
extraordinary life histories, often more unusual than those of
larger animals, and are typically more accessible for
observation and study. A survey conducted in the late
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1990s identified approximately 400 species of bees at
Pinnacles, giving the park the highest known bee diversity per
unit area in the world. Although butterfly diversity is
comparatively lower, with around70 recorded species, it's not
uncommon to see hundreds fluttering through the landscape
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on a single day under ideal conditions.
The park is also home to over 500 documented moth species,
with estimates suggesting the total may surpass 1000.
Additionally, around 250 speciesof aquatic invertebrates have
been recorded, including 41 species of dragonflies and
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damsel flies. Despite these impressive
numbers, many invertebrate groups in the park remain
largely unstudied and await further exploration.
According to the NPS website, Pinnacles is home to several
endemic invertebrates rarely or never found anywhere else.
One is the Pinnacles Shield BackKatie Did, a 2cm wingless dark
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grey insect that is active at night and feeds on California
buckwheat flowers. Another is the Pinnacles riffle
beetle, a tiny brown beetle measuring 2mm.
They inhabit the fast moving waters of Shaloni Creek.
The five main groups of invertebrates are one insects
like ants, beetles and flies, two crustaceans like shrimp,
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crabs, wood lice and lobsters, 3mollusks such as snails, slugs
and octopuses, 4 arachnids like spiders, scorpions, mites and
ticks, and five, annelids such as earthworms and leeches.
Although capturing and preserving invertebrates is a
standard method of study, this practice is prohibited at
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Pinnacles National Park without a scientific collecting permit.
Instead, visitors are encouragedto observe these remarkable
creatures in their natural surroundings using close focused
binoculars with eight times magnification.
Objects 8 feet away appear as ifthey are just one foot away.
Ideal for watching a bee collectpollen, a butterfly drink nectar
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or a tarantula wasp on the hunt.The Coast Live Oak A keystone of
California's coastal ecosystems,the Coast Live Oak is one of
California's most iconic and ecologically important native
trees. Found primarily along the
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Pacific Coast from Northern California to Baja California,
this Evergreen oak plays a central role in the structure
and function of coastal ecosystems.
It's dense, sprawling canopy, twisted branches, and leathery,
spiny edge leaves make it instantly recognizable and
deeply integrated into the cultural and Natural History of
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the region. Coast live oaks are medium to
large Evergreen trees that typically reach heights of 20 to
70 feet with equally widespreads.
They have a rounded crown, thickbark, and dark green leaves.
Unlike deciduous oaks, coast live oaks retain their foliage
year round, allowing them to continuously photosynthesize and
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support a stable habitat for wildlife.
One of the most distinctive features of Coast Live Oak is
its remarkable drought tolerance.
The tree has deep, extensive root systems that tap into
underground water sources, making it highly adapted to
California's Mediterranean climate of wet winters and dry
summers. Its leaves are coated with a
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waxy cuticle and often curved downward to reduce water loss, a
vital adaptation for survival during extended dry periods.
Coast live oaks are most commonly found in coastal
foothills and valleys, thriving in well drained soils from sea
level up to elevations of about 5000 feet.
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They grow in a range of habitats, including oak
Woodlands, mixed Evergreen forests, and savannas.
The species often dominates the canopy layer, shaping the
microclimate below by providing shade and regulating soil
moisture. These oaks are frequently
associated with other native plants such as California Bay
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Laurel and manzanita. Their fallen leaves and acorns
contribute to the forest floors rich organic matter supporting A
dynamic understory in a wide variety of fungi and
microorganisms. As a keystone species, the coast
Live Oak supports a vast array of wildlife.
Its egg corns are a vital food source for many animals,
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including deer, turkeys, woodpeckers, squirrels and Jays,
particularly the egg corn woodpecker, which famously
stores egg corns in holes drilled into tree trunks.
The dense canopy provides nesting sites and shelter for
birds, while cavities in older trees offer homes for owls, bats
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and other small mammals. The tree also fosters complex
ecological relationships. Below ground, it forms symbiotic
associations with mycorrhizal fungi, which enhance nutrient
uptake and soil stability. This underground network
contributes to the resilience ofthe broader plant community,
especially during droughts or environmental stress.
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For thousands of years, indigenous peoples of
California, including the Shumash, Aloni and Tongva,
relied on coast live oaks for food and resources.
Acorns were a dietary staple, leached of tannins and ground
into a flower to make nutritiousmeals.
The wood was used for tools, fuel and construction, and the
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trees held ceremonial significance in many cultures.
Spanish missionaries and early settlers also recognized the
value of these trees, using themfor building materials and
livestock forage. Today, coast live oaks are
emblematic of California's heritage, featured in artwork,
literature, and as treasured elements of the landscape.
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Despite their resilience, coast live oaks face numerous threats.
Urban Development and land conversion have significantly
reduced their habitat, particularly in Southern
California. Invasive species, including
non-native grasses and pathogens, pose ongoing
challenges. One of the most serious threats
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is sudden oak death, caused by the pathogen Phytophytora
remorum, which has devastated oak populations in some areas.
Conservation efforts are underway to monitor populations,
manage disease spread, and protect remaining oak Woodlands
through land preservation and ecological restoration.
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The Coast Live Oak is far more than a tree.
It is a foundational species that shapes entire ecosystems,
sustains wildlife, and connects human communities to the Land's
history. Preserving this iconic oak is
essential not only for maintaining biodiversity but
also for honoring the deep cultural roots it symbolizes.
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As California continues to confront environmental
challenges, the enduring presence of Coast Live Oak
serves as a living reminder of the intricate balance between
nature, history, and resilience.Tarantulas A seasonal marvel An
autumn visit to Pinnacles often rewards observant visitors with
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a glimpse of one of the parks most fascinating creatures, the
tarantula. September and October mark the
peak of tarantula activity when mature males wander both day and
night in search of a mate. These determined spiders inspect
every promising Burrow in hopes of finding a receptive female
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ready to lay her eggs in a carefully prepared nest.
For the rest of the year, tarantulas are far less visible,
though still present. Typically they remain tucked
away in underground Burrows, venturing out only at night to
hunt. If you examine the ground
closely, you might spot small silk lined holes, an indicator
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that a tarantula may be lurking within.
It is surprising how small of anopening a full grown tarantula
can occupy. These spiders are often seen
crossing roads, particularly during mating season.
Please adhere to posted speed limits and remain vigilant to
avoid harming tarantulas and other wildlife.
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Tarantulas feed on a wide variety of invertebrates and may
occasionally consume small reptiles, amphibians, and even
rodents. They subdue prey by injecting
digestive enzymes, then use powerful jaws to mash the tissue
and consume the resulting liquid.
After a large meal, a tarantula can go several months without
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eating again. Tarantulas in turn, are preyed
upon by snakes, birds, lizards, and their most notorious
nemesis, the tarantula hawk, which is actually a wasp.
If you find the tarantulas feeding habits unsettling,
consider the life cycle of the tarantula hawk.
Nearly the size of a Hummingbird, this striking
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spider wasp features a metallic blue black body and bold orange
wings commonly seen visiting flowers during summer and fall.
When ready to lay eggs, the female seeks out a tarantula,
delivering a paralyzing sting before dragging the tarantula,
often larger than herself, into a Burrow.
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There she lays a single egg on the still living host and seals
the chamber. When the larva hatches, it feeds
on the tarantula from the insideout.
Wow. The female tarantula hawk is a
fearsome predator. Tarantulas have two primary
defense mechanisms. They made by, if provoked,
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delivering a sting comparable toa bee sting.
However, they are generally docile and rarely use their
fangs except to subdue prey. The other defense mechanism is
their yurticating hairs. When threatened, A tarantula may
rear up, raising its front legs and abdomen.
It may also release irritating hairs from its abdomen, which
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embed in skin and cause discomfort through hundreds of
microscopic barbs. Unlike web spinning spiders,
tarantulas do not use silk to trap prey.
Instead, they line their Burrowswith silk and female spin
protective coverings for their eggs.
Tarantulas lack the third claw used by web builders for
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gripping silk. Instead, they have dense pads of
specialized hairs, each splitting into hundreds of
microscopic filaments called endfeet, allowing them to climb
vertical surfaces and even traverse ceilings.
Trail Trivia How many eyes does a tarantula have?
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Eight with eight eyes. Tarantulas still have poor
eyesight. Like most spiders, they rely on
finely tuned body hairs that detect vibrations, and they
quote taste using sensory hairs near their mouths and feet.
Their sense of smell likely comes from chemosensory pits on
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their feet. Trail Trivia Do all spiders have
eight eyes? Nope.
About 99% of spiders do have eight eyes, but some have 642,
and some even have no eyes at all.
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Tarantulas take nearly a decade to reach maturity.
Males live for a brief period after mating, typically less
than a year, and may be consumedby the female during or after
the encounter. Trail Trivia.
How long can a female tarantula live?
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Female tarantulas can live more than 20 years, making them among
the longest live spiders on Earth.
The word tarantula originally referred to the European wolf
spider, named after the Italian town of Taranto.
Folklore once held that its bitecaused a condition called
tarantism, which led to uncontrollable dancing, giving
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rise to the spirited folk dance,the tarantella.
Until recently, the species of tarantula found at Pinnacles had
not been formally studied. Upcoming research will soon
provide a scientific name for the local species currently
classified within the genus Afanopoma.
It's common for people to fear spiders or at least feel uneasy
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around them. I used to feel the same way
until I had the chance to hold atarantula named Rosie at the
Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster, Co.
That experience, along with learning more about spiders,
helped ease my anxiety. 1 great way to become more comfortable
with these fascinating creaturesis to visit pinnacles during
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tarantula mating season, when males can often be seen.
Another fun option is the Tarantula Festival in La Junta,
Co. This unique event features a
parade, local vendors, educational exhibits, live art
and guided tarantula tours. Trail Trivia.
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What is the largest land bird inNorth America?
The California Condor. The California Condor A triumph
of conservation and a symbol of the Wild West, the California
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Condor is one of North America'smost iconic and endangered
birds. Known for its immense wingspan,
soaring flight, and dramatic conservation story, the Condor
holds a special place in both ecological history and human
imagination. Once widespread across the
continent, the California Condornow inhabits a fraction of its
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historical range. But thanks to decades of
intensive recovery efforts, its future is once again filled with
hope. The California Condor is the
largest land bird in North America, boasting a wingspan of
nearly 10 feet and weighing up to 25 lbs.
Adults are primarily black, withstriking white patches under the
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wings and a bald, pinkish orangehead and neck that deepen in
color with age and emotional state.
This lack of feathers is an adaptation for hygiene, allowing
the Condor to feed on carry on without fouling its plumage.
Condors are highly intelligent and social birds.
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They use thermal updrafts to soar for hours with minimal wing
flapping, often reaching altitudes of over 15,000 feet.
Their eyesight is exceptionally sharp, enabling them to locate
carcasses from great distances. California condors do not hunt
but feed exclusively on dead animals, playing a vital
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ecological role as nature's cleanup crew.
For many indigenous peoples of the American West, the Condor
has long been a powerful spiritual symbol.
Tribes such as the Shumash regarded the Condor as sacred,
featuring it prominently in myths, dances and ceremonies.
The birds dramatic appearance and soaring flight have inspired
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stories of power, renewal and reverence.
Historically, the California Condor ranged from British
Columbia to Baja California and across the interior of the
American West. However, human encroachment,
habitat destruction and poisoning led to a dramatic
decline in its population duringthe 20th century.
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By the 1980s, fewer than 30 California condors remained in
the wild. The primary threats to their
survival included habitat loss, lead poisoning from ingesting
bullet fragments in animal carcasses, microtrash ingestion,
and collisions with power lines.In 1987, the US Fish and
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Wildlife Service made the controversial decision to
capture the last wild condors and initiate A captive breeding
program to save the species fromextinction.
The California Condor Recovery Program has been one of the most
ambitious and celebrated conservation efforts in history.
Led by partnerships between federal and state agencies,
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zoos, Indigenous nations and nonprofit organizations, the
program began with 27 individuals and has grown to a
population of over 500 birds, with more than half now living
in the wild. Captive bred condors are
released in several key locations across the US and
Mexico, including California, Arizona, Utah and Baja
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California. Pinnacles National Park is one
of the few sites where condors are regularly released and
observed. Here, condors nest and sore
among the rugged cliffs, often thrilling visitors with their
dramatic aerial displays. Biologists monitor condors
closely, fitting them with wing tags and radio transmitters to
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track movements and health. The birds are regularly trapped
for health checks, vaccinations and to treat lead poisoning,
which remains the leading cause of death among wild condors.
Despite the progress, Californiacondors are still critically
endangered. Pinnacles National Park plays a
vital role in the recovery of the California Condor.
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Since 2003, the park has been one of the most active release
sites in collaboration with the Ventana Wildlife Society and
other partners. The park's unique geology,
thermal updrafts and secluded nesting sites make it ideal for
Condor habitat. Visitors to Pinnacles often have
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the chance to see condors in flight, especially from high
vantage points such as the High Peaks Trail or the Ridge above
the balcony's cliffs. Interpretive programs, Condor
spotting stations and Ranger LEDtalks help educate the public
about the birds story and how they can help protect them.
The California condors journey from the brink of extinction to
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a cautiously hopeful recovery isa powerful testament to the
impact of sustained conservationefforts.
Continued public education, scientific research and policy
support are essential to ensure the species long term survival.
Every sighting of a Condor in the wild is a reminder of what
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is possible when people come together to protect our shared
natural heritage. As the California Condor soars
once more over the cliffs and canyons of the West, it carries
with it a message of resilience,cooperation and the enduring
spirit of the wild. Wild pig management at Pinnacles
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National Park In contrast to preserving and saving a species,
as was done with the California Condor, Pinnacles National Park,
like most national parks and natural areas, is in a battle to
eradicate invasive species. Wild pigs were first seen at
Pinnacles in the late 1960s, buttheir roots in California go
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back to the 1700s, when Spanish settlers introduced domestic
pigs. In 1925, European wild boars
were brought to Monterey County for hunting and bred with feral
pigs, producing hybrids that eventually spread into the park.
These invasive pigs are highly adaptable omnivores.
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They root through soil and search for food like acorns,
berries, bulbs, insects, and even small animals.
Their destructive foraging behavior damages native plants,
spreads invasive species, erodessoil, and degrades water
quality. Pigs also compete with wildlife
for food and can spread diseases.
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With high reproduction rates andfew predators, their populations
can grow rapidly. To stop their spread, Pinnacles
constructed a 24 mile perimeter fence in 2003, enclosing over
14,000 acres. Wildlife experts removed pigs
from inside the fence using humane ground based methods.
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An additional 9 miles of fencingwas added in 2010 to protect
sensitive habitats where the federally threatened California
red legged frogs breed. Today over 33 miles of fence
have been installed. Pinnacles remains committed to
keeping the park pig free. Staff regularly patrol and
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maintain the fence, ensuring theparks native ecosystems are
protected for future generations.
Recreation and Hiking Hiking is the most popular activity in
Pinnacles National Park, and thepark offers over 30 miles of
trails that cater to all levels of experience.
One of the most iconic hikes is the High Peaks Trail, which
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provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and passes
through narrow rock stairways carved directly into the
volcanic formations. This challenging trail is not
for the faint of heart, but rewards hikers with an
unforgettable scenery. Other notable hikes include the
Bare Gulch Cave Trail, which leads through a talus cave
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filled with massive boulders andends at Bare Gulch Reservoir,
and the Balconies Cave Trail, which offers a more accessible
cave experience with stunning rock formations.
These caves are seasonally closed to protect bat colonies,
so checking their status in advance is recommended.
When we visited in 2022, it was my second time at Pinnacles.
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My first time I visited the eastentrance area and hiked Moses
Spring and Rim Trail near the Bear Gulch parking area.
It's a 2.2 mile loop that has extremely green mossy rocks and
trees, a reservoir, and some awesome caves to climb through.
Make sure to bring a headlamp. I saw a Condor flying up above
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during our time there. On our Stargazer adventures in
2022, we explored the West entrance area of Pinnacles.
We first hiked the Balconies Cliffs Cave Loop which is a 2.4
mile round trip. It was an easy hike through the
Pinnacles and forested area and then a little bit of rock
scrambling and skinny areas in the caves.
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It was a great hike. Then we did the short Pruitt
Point Trail, a .9 mile lollipop trail with elevation gain of
just 70 feet. It was another easy trail with
the scenic Vista of the pinnacles and surrounding
mountains. This trail starts at the visitor
Center. Rock climbing is another major
draw with routes for beginners and advanced climbers alike.
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The unique volcanic Brecchia offers a different climbing
experience compared to granite dominated areas like Yosemite.
Pinnacles National Park can be accessed from 2 main entrances,
the east entrance near Hollisterand the West entrance near
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Soledad. It's important to note that
there is no Rd. connecting the two entrances through the park,
so visitors must plan accordingly.
The east entrance features the park's main campground, visitor
center, and easy access to the Bear Gulch area.
This side is generally more developed and offers potable
water, picnic areas, and Ranger programs.
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The West entrance, while more remote, provides quick access to
the balconies area and is often less crowded.
No matter which entrance you choose, Pinnacles offers a
peaceful retreat into a landscape shaped by fire and
fault lines, nurtured by rain and time, and protected by
generations who recognized its value.
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Whether you're watching the Condors or overhead, squeezing
through ancient caves or simply soaking in the silence of the
High Peaks, a visit to Pinnaclesis a journey through the heart
of California's natural and cultural heritage.
Before we leave you with the Junior Ranger activity, we
wanted to share a quick update on our plans for the podcast and
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how we're balancing our love of this project with the rhythm of
the seasons, family life, and our deep need to spend more time
outdoors during this beautiful time of year.
Here in the Northern hemisphere,summer is just around the
corner, and like many of you, we're feeling the call of nature
more strongly than ever. This year is especially
meaningful for us, as our daughter has started walking,
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exploring trails, and truly falling in love with outdoors.
It's an incredible thing to witness and we want to soak up
every moment of it. With that in mind, this year
we've made the decision to shiftto three episodes per month
instead of four during the summer and fall months.
This change will allow us to spend more time outside as a
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family and continue nurturing the same love for nature that
inspired this podcast in the 1stplace.
Let us be clear, our excitement and passion for creating this
podcast is stronger than ever. Each episode is a labor of love,
and sharing stories, knowledge, and inspiration about the
natural world brings us real joy.
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Our commitment to educating, advocating, and encouraging
others to explore and protect wild spaces continues to grow
each week. We are so grateful to each of
you who tunes in, whether you'rehiking a trail, driving to work,
or simply dreaming of your next outdoor escape.
Thank you for your continued support and for finding
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inspiration in our episodes. This is a special season of our
life for our family, and we're choosing to embrace it fully.
We're sharing our love of the outdoors with our daughter and
giving her the gift of time in nature, a gift we believe is as
important as any. We do plan to return to our
regular schedule of 4 episodes per month, most likely sometime
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this winter, and we'll keep you posted In the meantime.
We encourage you to make the most of this vibrant season.
Go outside, explore and let nature fill your cup.
Thanks again for being here withus.
We truly love doing this and we're excited for everything
still to come. Now the Junior Ranger portion
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before we wrap up this episode. There are potentially thousands
of species that call Pinnacles home.
This makes it incredibly difficult to even skim the
surface of talking about the parks inhabitants.
We hope you enjoyed the plant and animal highlights we chose
today. An interesting inhabitant of
Pinnacles is the lichen population.
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There are over 90 lichens at Pinnacles breaking down rocks.
Lichens are a complex life form that is a symbiotic partnership
of two separate organisms, fungus and algae.
The dominant partner is the fungus, which gives the lichen
the majority of its characteristics, from its talus
shape to its fruiting bodies. Lichen makes its food from the
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sunlight and absorbs nutrients from the air and rain.
Lichen looks like splotches of paint on rocks or hairy beards
growing on trees. Do you live in a place where
lichen grows? If you do, next time you are
outside, find a rock or tree that has lichen on it and
observe it. It is easy to confuse lichen
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with Moss. If you see tiny leaves then it
is probably a Moss. The Pinnacles Junior Ranger
Handbook highlights lichen and has a place to draw the lichen
you observe. We encourage you to seek out the
Junior Ranger Handbook on the NPS website, complete it and
send it in to receive your Pinnacles Junior Ranger badge.
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The final section of the handbook is a fun, thought
provoking activity. Create your own National Park.
Think of a place near you that you think should be a National
Park or National Park unit. Is it a natural site, cultural
site, or both? What would you name this
National Park? Why should this place be a
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National Park? Have fun creating the next
National Park. We hope you had fun learning all
about Pinnacles National Park with us.
It is a remarkable blend of geological wonder, ecological
richness, and cultural significance.
From its dramatic Spires and talus caves to its thriving
biodiversity, the park offers a living laboratory for science
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and a sanctuary for nature. Whether experienced through a
solitary sunrise in the High Peaks or a family picnic beneath
coast live oaks, Pinnacles invites reflection, discovery,
and a deeper appreciation for the wild places that sustain us
all. If you haven't visited Pinnacles
yet, we hope this inspired you to add it to your bucket list.
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If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, share, and
follow us for more outdoor adventures.
And to all you Junior Rangers out there, good luck on earning
your badge. And hey, if you've earned a
Junior Ranger badge recently, send us a picture.
We'd love to see it. And if you want, feel free to
share your latest story from your time in a National Park
unit. Who knows, maybe we will mention
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it in one of our upcoming episodes.
Be sure to include in the e-mailthat you grant us permission to
Share your story. I will include our e-mail
address npjrpodcast@gmail.com inour show notes.
And feel free to follow us on our adventures on Instagram at
NPJR Podcast. Until next time, happy trails
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and remember the Earth is ours to explore and protect, so let's
get out there and do it. Explore, learn and protect.
Welcome to NPJR, where we explore the great outdoors one
National Park at a time. I'm Justin.
And I'm Robin, we encourage you to pause the podcast at any time
and discuss some of our talking points or try answering our
trail trivias. Today, we're heading to a
landscape forged by volcanoes inCentral California to explore
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Pinnacles National Park. Nestled in the Salinas Valley
region of Central California, Pinnacles National Park is a
land of dramatic rock Spires, deep canyons, and rare wildlife.
This park, which covers just over 26,000 acres, making it the
6th smallest National Park by acreage, saw over 354,000
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visitors in 2024. Pinnacles is known for its
distinctive geological formations.
Tall jagged peaks that rise fromthe chaparral covered hills like
Sentinels of a forgotten world. These formations are the
namesake of the park called Pinnacles.
They are remnants of an ancient volcanic field that has
undergone millions of years of tectonic movement, weathering
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and erosion. Over time, the erosion carved
out the dramatic cliffs, caves and Spires that define the
landscape today. The geological history of
pinnacles dates back approximately 23 million years.
During the Miocene, epic volcanic activity in what is now
Southern California produced a complex field of lava flows, ash
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deposits, and volcanic brachia. The San Andreas Fault, a major
tectonic boundary, later tore this field apart, moving a large
portion northwestward over millions of years.
The pinnacles we see today are part of this displaced segment.
Originally located near present day Lancaster, the faults
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relentless activity transported the rock formations some 195
miles north to their current location.
They're still moving today at a rate of about .6 inches, or
1.5cm per year. Long before European settlers
arrived, the area now known as Pinnacles National Park was home
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to indigenous peoples who lived in harmony with the land.
The chalone and moots and branches of the Aloni people
inhabited this region, making use of the diverse ecosystems
for food, medicine and shelter. These communities thrived in the
oak Woodlands and Creekside areas, hunting deer and rabbits,
gathering acorns and using native plants for healing.
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Archaeological evidence, including stone tools, bedrock,
mortars, and fire pits, indicates that these peoples had
a deep and enduring connection to the landscape.
The pinnacles were not only a resource base but also a place
of spiritual significance. With the arrival of Spanish
missions in the 18th century, the traditional way of life for
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the Shalon and Mutsun peoples were forever altered.
Many were relocated to missions such as San Juan Bautista, where
they faced forced labor, disease, and cultural
suppression. Today, descendants of these
groups work to preserve their heritage and promote
understanding of their history within the park.
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The striking beauty and unique geological features of pinnacles
began attracting attention in the late 19th century.
In 19 O Eight, President Theodore Roosevelt designated
the area as Pinnacles National Monument under the Antiquities
Act, primarily to protect its unusual rock formations.
Over the years, the monument grew through additional land
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acquisitions spurred by both scientific interest and
recreational use. In 2013, after a long campaign
led by conservationists, local residents, and lawmakers,
Pinnacles was officially designated as a National Park.
This new status elevated the parks profile and brought
greater resources for preservation, research and
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visitor services. Today, Pinnacle stands as one of
the newest units in the NationalPark Service System, offering
visitors a rich tapestry of natural and cultural history.
Although Pinnacles is not known for large bodies of water, its
hydrology plays a crucial role in sustaining life in this semi
arid region. Seasonal creeks like Bear Gulch
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Creek and Chaloni Creek flow through the park, providing
essential moisture during the wet winter and spring months.
These waterways support a variety of plant and animal life
and help to recharge the groundwater system.
Baragulch Reservoir, a small manmade lake created by a dam built
by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, is one of
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the few standing bodies of waterin the park.
It offers a scenic and beautifulspot for visitors and serves as
a vital habitat for amphibians and birds.
During the dry summer months, water becomes scarce and many of
the parks smaller streams run dry, making the wet season
crucial for the ecosystem's survival.
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Flora and Fauna For being one ofthe smallest national parks,
Pinnacles has an impressive catalog of plants and animals.
It is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 1000 species of
plants and animals. It's varied topography and
climate. Zones from chaparral and oak
Woodlands to talus caves and high rock Spires create numerous
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micro habitats that support an array of life forms.
Among the park's fauna, the California Condor is the most
famous. Pinnacles is one of the few
places in the US where these critically endangered birds are
being reintroduced into the wild.
Visitors may also see Falcons, Golden Eagles, Bobcats, Gray
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foxes, Merriam's chipmunk and even the elusive Mountain Lion.
The park's caves house colonies of Townsend's big eared bats,
which are sensitive to disturbance and protected by
seasonal closures. The park has insects,
amphibians, reptiles, fish, birds and mammals.
According to the NPS website. While several types of snakes
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live in pinnacles, the Pacific rattlesnake is the only venomous
species. Flora includes blue oak, coast
Live Oak, manzanita, Gray pine and various wildflowers such as
California poppies, lupines and Mariposa lilies.
The springtime bloom is particularly spectacular,
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drawing photographers and botanists from across the world.
Though frequently overlooked, invertebrates account for
thousands of wildlife species atPinnacles National Park.
Trail Trivia What percentage of animal species on Earth are
invertebrates? According to butterflies.org,
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97% lacking bones, teeth, fur, or feathers.
These creatures are fascinating.Many possess intricate and
extraordinary life histories, often more unusual than those of
larger animals, and are typically more accessible for
observation and study. A survey conducted in the late
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1990s identified approximately 400 species of bees at
Pinnacles, giving the park the highest known bee diversity per
unit area in the world. Although butterfly diversity is
comparatively lower, with around70 recorded species, it's not
uncommon to see hundreds fluttering through the landscape
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on a single day under ideal conditions.
The park is also home to over 500 documented moth species,
with estimates suggesting the total may surpass 1000.
Additionally, around 250 speciesof aquatic invertebrates have
been recorded, including 41 species of dragonflies and
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damsel flies. Despite these impressive
numbers, many invertebrate groups in the park remain
largely unstudied and await further exploration.
According to the NPS website, Pinnacles is home to several
endemic invertebrates rarely or never found anywhere else.
One is the Pinnacles Shield BackKatie Did, a 2cm wingless dark
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grey insect that is active at night and feeds on California
buckwheat flowers. Another is the Pinnacles riffle
beetle, a tiny brown beetle measuring 2mm.
They inhabit the fast moving waters of Shaloni Creek.
The five main groups of invertebrates are one insects
like ants, beetles and flies, two crustaceans like shrimp,
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crabs, wood lice and lobsters, 3mollusks such as snails, slugs
and octopuses, 4 arachnids like spiders, scorpions, mites and
ticks, and five, annelids such as earthworms and leeches.
Although capturing and preserving invertebrates is a
standard method of study, this practice is prohibited at
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Pinnacles National Park without a scientific collecting permit.
Instead, visitors are encouragedto observe these remarkable
creatures in their natural surroundings using close focused
binoculars with eight times magnification.
Objects 8 feet away appear as ifthey are just one foot away.
Ideal for watching a bee collectpollen, a butterfly drink nectar
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or a tarantula wasp on the hunt.The Coast Live Oak A keystone of
California's coastal ecosystems,the Coast Live Oak is one of
California's most iconic and ecologically important native
trees. Found primarily along the
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Pacific Coast from Northern California to Baja California,
this Evergreen oak plays a central role in the structure
and function of coastal ecosystems.
It's dense, sprawling canopy, twisted branches, and leathery,
spiny edge leaves make it instantly recognizable and
deeply integrated into the cultural and Natural History of
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the region. Coast live oaks are medium to
large Evergreen trees that typically reach heights of 20 to
70 feet with equally widespreads.
They have a rounded crown, thickbark, and dark green leaves.
Unlike deciduous oaks, coast live oaks retain their foliage
year round, allowing them to continuously photosynthesize and
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support a stable habitat for wildlife.
One of the most distinctive features of Coast Live Oak is
its remarkable drought tolerance.
The tree has deep, extensive root systems that tap into
underground water sources, making it highly adapted to
California's Mediterranean climate of wet winters and dry
summers. Its leaves are coated with a
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waxy cuticle and often curved downward to reduce water loss, a
vital adaptation for survival during extended dry periods.
Coast live oaks are most commonly found in coastal
foothills and valleys, thriving in well drained soils from sea
level up to elevations of about 5000 feet.
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They grow in a range of habitats, including oak
Woodlands, mixed Evergreen forests, and savannas.
The species often dominates the canopy layer, shaping the
microclimate below by providing shade and regulating soil
moisture. These oaks are frequently
associated with other native plants such as California Bay
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Laurel and manzanita. Their fallen leaves and acorns
contribute to the forest floors rich organic matter supporting A
dynamic understory in a wide variety of fungi and
microorganisms. As a keystone species, the coast
Live Oak supports a vast array of wildlife.
Its egg corns are a vital food source for many animals,
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including deer, turkeys, woodpeckers, squirrels and Jays,
particularly the egg corn woodpecker, which famously
stores egg corns in holes drilled into tree trunks.
The dense canopy provides nesting sites and shelter for
birds, while cavities in older trees offer homes for owls, bats
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and other small mammals. The tree also fosters complex
ecological relationships. Below ground, it forms symbiotic
associations with mycorrhizal fungi, which enhance nutrient
uptake and soil stability. This underground network
contributes to the resilience ofthe broader plant community,
especially during droughts or environmental stress.
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For thousands of years, indigenous peoples of
California, including the Shumash, Aloni and Tongva,
relied on coast live oaks for food and resources.
Acorns were a dietary staple, leached of tannins and ground
into a flower to make nutritiousmeals.
The wood was used for tools, fuel and construction, and the
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trees held ceremonial significance in many cultures.
Spanish missionaries and early settlers also recognized the
value of these trees, using themfor building materials and
livestock forage. Today, coast live oaks are
emblematic of California's heritage, featured in artwork,
literature, and as treasured elements of the landscape.
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Despite their resilience, coast live oaks face numerous threats.
Urban Development and land conversion have significantly
reduced their habitat, particularly in Southern
California. Invasive species, including
non-native grasses and pathogens, pose ongoing
challenges. One of the most serious threats
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is sudden oak death, caused by the pathogen Phytophytora
remorum, which has devastated oak populations in some areas.
Conservation efforts are underway to monitor populations,
manage disease spread, and protect remaining oak Woodlands
through land preservation and ecological restoration.
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The Coast Live Oak is far more than a tree.
It is a foundational species that shapes entire ecosystems,
sustains wildlife, and connects human communities to the Land's
history. Preserving this iconic oak is
essential not only for maintaining biodiversity but
also for honoring the deep cultural roots it symbolizes.
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As California continues to confront environmental
challenges, the enduring presence of Coast Live Oak
serves as a living reminder of the intricate balance between
nature, history, and resilience.Tarantulas A seasonal marvel An
autumn visit to Pinnacles often rewards observant visitors with
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a glimpse of one of the parks most fascinating creatures, the
tarantula. September and October mark the
peak of tarantula activity when mature males wander both day and
night in search of a mate. These determined spiders inspect
every promising Burrow in hopes of finding a receptive female
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ready to lay her eggs in a carefully prepared nest.
For the rest of the year, tarantulas are far less visible,
though still present. Typically they remain tucked
away in underground Burrows, venturing out only at night to
hunt. If you examine the ground
closely, you might spot small silk lined holes, an indicator
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that a tarantula may be lurking within.
It is surprising how small of anopening a full grown tarantula
can occupy. These spiders are often seen
crossing roads, particularly during mating season.
Please adhere to posted speed limits and remain vigilant to
avoid harming tarantulas and other wildlife.
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Tarantulas feed on a wide variety of invertebrates and may
occasionally consume small reptiles, amphibians, and even
rodents. They subdue prey by injecting
digestive enzymes, then use powerful jaws to mash the tissue
and consume the resulting liquid.
After a large meal, a tarantula can go several months without
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eating again. Tarantulas in turn, are preyed
upon by snakes, birds, lizards, and their most notorious
nemesis, the tarantula hawk, which is actually a wasp.
If you find the tarantulas feeding habits unsettling,
consider the life cycle of the tarantula hawk.
Nearly the size of a Hummingbird, this striking
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spider wasp features a metallic blue black body and bold orange
wings commonly seen visiting flowers during summer and fall.
When ready to lay eggs, the female seeks out a tarantula,
delivering a paralyzing sting before dragging the tarantula,
often larger than herself, into a Burrow.
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There she lays a single egg on the still living host and seals
the chamber. When the larva hatches, it feeds
on the tarantula from the insideout.
Wow. The female tarantula hawk is a
fearsome predator. Tarantulas have two primary
defense mechanisms. They made by, if provoked,
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delivering a sting comparable toa bee sting.
However, they are generally docile and rarely use their
fangs except to subdue prey. The other defense mechanism is
their yurticating hairs. When threatened, A tarantula may
rear up, raising its front legs and abdomen.
It may also release irritating hairs from its abdomen, which
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embed in skin and cause discomfort through hundreds of
microscopic barbs. Unlike web spinning spiders,
tarantulas do not use silk to trap prey.
Instead, they line their Burrowswith silk and female spin
protective coverings for their eggs.
Tarantulas lack the third claw used by web builders for
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gripping silk. Instead, they have dense pads of
specialized hairs, each splitting into hundreds of
microscopic filaments called endfeet, allowing them to climb
vertical surfaces and even traverse ceilings.
Trail Trivia How many eyes does a tarantula have?
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Eight with eight eyes. Tarantulas still have poor
eyesight. Like most spiders, they rely on
finely tuned body hairs that detect vibrations, and they
quote taste using sensory hairs near their mouths and feet.
Their sense of smell likely comes from chemosensory pits on
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their feet. Trail Trivia Do all spiders have
eight eyes? Nope.
About 99% of spiders do have eight eyes, but some have 642,
and some even have no eyes at all.
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Tarantulas take nearly a decade to reach maturity.
Males live for a brief period after mating, typically less
than a year, and may be consumedby the female during or after
the encounter. Trail Trivia.
How long can a female tarantula live?
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Female tarantulas can live more than 20 years, making them among
the longest live spiders on Earth.
The word tarantula originally referred to the European wolf
spider, named after the Italian town of Taranto.
Folklore once held that its bitecaused a condition called
tarantism, which led to uncontrollable dancing, giving
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rise to the spirited folk dance,the tarantella.
Until recently, the species of tarantula found at Pinnacles had
not been formally studied. Upcoming research will soon
provide a scientific name for the local species currently
classified within the genus Afanopoma.
It's common for people to fear spiders or at least feel uneasy
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around them. I used to feel the same way
until I had the chance to hold atarantula named Rosie at the
Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster, Co.
That experience, along with learning more about spiders,
helped ease my anxiety. 1 great way to become more comfortable
with these fascinating creaturesis to visit pinnacles during
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tarantula mating season, when males can often be seen.
Another fun option is the Tarantula Festival in La Junta,
Co. This unique event features a
parade, local vendors, educational exhibits, live art
and guided tarantula tours. Trail Trivia.
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What is the largest land bird inNorth America?
The California Condor. The California Condor A triumph
of conservation and a symbol of the Wild West, the California
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Condor is one of North America'smost iconic and endangered
birds. Known for its immense wingspan,
soaring flight, and dramatic conservation story, the Condor
holds a special place in both ecological history and human
imagination. Once widespread across the
continent, the California Condornow inhabits a fraction of its
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historical range. But thanks to decades of
intensive recovery efforts, its future is once again filled with
hope. The California Condor is the
largest land bird in North America, boasting a wingspan of
nearly 10 feet and weighing up to 25 lbs.
Adults are primarily black, withstriking white patches under the
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wings and a bald, pinkish orangehead and neck that deepen in
color with age and emotional state.
This lack of feathers is an adaptation for hygiene, allowing
the Condor to feed on carry on without fouling its plumage.
Condors are highly intelligent and social birds.
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They use thermal updrafts to soar for hours with minimal wing
flapping, often reaching altitudes of over 15,000 feet.
Their eyesight is exceptionally sharp, enabling them to locate
carcasses from great distances. California condors do not hunt
but feed exclusively on dead animals, playing a vital
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ecological role as nature's cleanup crew.
For many indigenous peoples of the American West, the Condor
has long been a powerful spiritual symbol.
Tribes such as the Shumash regarded the Condor as sacred,
featuring it prominently in myths, dances and ceremonies.
The birds dramatic appearance and soaring flight have inspired
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stories of power, renewal and reverence.
Historically, the California Condor ranged from British
Columbia to Baja California and across the interior of the
American West. However, human encroachment,
habitat destruction and poisoning led to a dramatic
decline in its population duringthe 20th century.
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By the 1980s, fewer than 30 California condors remained in
the wild. The primary threats to their
survival included habitat loss, lead poisoning from ingesting
bullet fragments in animal carcasses, microtrash ingestion,
and collisions with power lines.In 1987, the US Fish and
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Wildlife Service made the controversial decision to
capture the last wild condors and initiate A captive breeding
program to save the species fromextinction.
The California Condor Recovery Program has been one of the most
ambitious and celebrated conservation efforts in history.
Led by partnerships between federal and state agencies,
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zoos, Indigenous nations and nonprofit organizations, the
program began with 27 individuals and has grown to a
population of over 500 birds, with more than half now living
in the wild. Captive bred condors are
released in several key locations across the US and
Mexico, including California, Arizona, Utah and Baja
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California. Pinnacles National Park is one
of the few sites where condors are regularly released and
observed. Here, condors nest and sore
among the rugged cliffs, often thrilling visitors with their
dramatic aerial displays. Biologists monitor condors
closely, fitting them with wing tags and radio transmitters to
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track movements and health. The birds are regularly trapped
for health checks, vaccinations and to treat lead poisoning,
which remains the leading cause of death among wild condors.
Despite the progress, Californiacondors are still critically
endangered. Pinnacles National Park plays a
vital role in the recovery of the California Condor.
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Since 2003, the park has been one of the most active release
sites in collaboration with the Ventana Wildlife Society and
other partners. The park's unique geology,
thermal updrafts and secluded nesting sites make it ideal for
Condor habitat. Visitors to Pinnacles often have
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the chance to see condors in flight, especially from high
vantage points such as the High Peaks Trail or the Ridge above
the balcony's cliffs. Interpretive programs, Condor
spotting stations and Ranger LEDtalks help educate the public
about the birds story and how they can help protect them.
The California condors journey from the brink of extinction to
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a cautiously hopeful recovery isa powerful testament to the
impact of sustained conservationefforts.
Continued public education, scientific research and policy
support are essential to ensure the species long term survival.
Every sighting of a Condor in the wild is a reminder of what
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is possible when people come together to protect our shared
natural heritage. As the California Condor soars
once more over the cliffs and canyons of the West, it carries
with it a message of resilience,cooperation and the enduring
spirit of the wild. Wild pig management at Pinnacles
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National Park In contrast to preserving and saving a species,
as was done with the California Condor, Pinnacles National Park,
like most national parks and natural areas, is in a battle to
eradicate invasive species. Wild pigs were first seen at
Pinnacles in the late 1960s, buttheir roots in California go
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back to the 1700s, when Spanish settlers introduced domestic
pigs. In 1925, European wild boars
were brought to Monterey County for hunting and bred with feral
pigs, producing hybrids that eventually spread into the park.
These invasive pigs are highly adaptable omnivores.
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They root through soil and search for food like acorns,
berries, bulbs, insects, and even small animals.
Their destructive foraging behavior damages native plants,
spreads invasive species, erodessoil, and degrades water
quality. Pigs also compete with wildlife
for food and can spread diseases.
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With high reproduction rates andfew predators, their populations
can grow rapidly. To stop their spread, Pinnacles
constructed a 24 mile perimeter fence in 2003, enclosing over
14,000 acres. Wildlife experts removed pigs
from inside the fence using humane ground based methods.
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An additional 9 miles of fencingwas added in 2010 to protect
sensitive habitats where the federally threatened California
red legged frogs breed. Today over 33 miles of fence
have been installed. Pinnacles remains committed to
keeping the park pig free. Staff regularly patrol and
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maintain the fence, ensuring theparks native ecosystems are
protected for future generations.
Recreation and Hiking Hiking is the most popular activity in
Pinnacles National Park, and thepark offers over 30 miles of
trails that cater to all levels of experience.
One of the most iconic hikes is the High Peaks Trail, which
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provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and passes
through narrow rock stairways carved directly into the
volcanic formations. This challenging trail is not
for the faint of heart, but rewards hikers with an
unforgettable scenery. Other notable hikes include the
Bare Gulch Cave Trail, which leads through a talus cave
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filled with massive boulders andends at Bare Gulch Reservoir,
and the Balconies Cave Trail, which offers a more accessible
cave experience with stunning rock formations.
These caves are seasonally closed to protect bat colonies,
so checking their status in advance is recommended.
When we visited in 2022, it was my second time at Pinnacles.
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My first time I visited the eastentrance area and hiked Moses
Spring and Rim Trail near the Bear Gulch parking area.
It's a 2.2 mile loop that has extremely green mossy rocks and
trees, a reservoir, and some awesome caves to climb through.
Make sure to bring a headlamp. I saw a Condor flying up above
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during our time there. On our Stargazer adventures in
2022, we explored the West entrance area of Pinnacles.
We first hiked the Balconies Cliffs Cave Loop which is a 2.4
mile round trip. It was an easy hike through the
Pinnacles and forested area and then a little bit of rock
scrambling and skinny areas in the caves.
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It was a great hike. Then we did the short Pruitt
Point Trail, a .9 mile lollipop trail with elevation gain of
just 70 feet. It was another easy trail with
the scenic Vista of the pinnacles and surrounding
mountains. This trail starts at the visitor
Center. Rock climbing is another major
draw with routes for beginners and advanced climbers alike.
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The unique volcanic Brecchia offers a different climbing
experience compared to granite dominated areas like Yosemite.
Pinnacles National Park can be accessed from 2 main entrances,
the east entrance near Hollisterand the West entrance near
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Soledad. It's important to note that
there is no Rd. connecting the two entrances through the park,
so visitors must plan accordingly.
The east entrance features the park's main campground, visitor
center, and easy access to the Bear Gulch area.
This side is generally more developed and offers potable
water, picnic areas, and Ranger programs.
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The West entrance, while more remote, provides quick access to
the balconies area and is often less crowded.
No matter which entrance you choose, Pinnacles offers a
peaceful retreat into a landscape shaped by fire and
fault lines, nurtured by rain and time, and protected by
generations who recognized its value.
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Whether you're watching the Condors or overhead, squeezing
through ancient caves or simply soaking in the silence of the
High Peaks, a visit to Pinnaclesis a journey through the heart
of California's natural and cultural heritage.
Before we leave you with the Junior Ranger activity, we
wanted to share a quick update on our plans for the podcast and
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how we're balancing our love of this project with the rhythm of
the seasons, family life, and our deep need to spend more time
outdoors during this beautiful time of year.
Here in the Northern hemisphere,summer is just around the
corner, and like many of you, we're feeling the call of nature
more strongly than ever. This year is especially
meaningful for us, as our daughter has started walking,
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exploring trails, and truly falling in love with outdoors.
It's an incredible thing to witness and we want to soak up
every moment of it. With that in mind, this year
we've made the decision to shiftto three episodes per month
instead of four during the summer and fall months.
This change will allow us to spend more time outside as a
(34:04):
family and continue nurturing the same love for nature that
inspired this podcast in the 1stplace.
Let us be clear, our excitement and passion for creating this
podcast is stronger than ever. Each episode is a labor of love,
and sharing stories, knowledge, and inspiration about the
natural world brings us real joy.
(34:26):
Our commitment to educating, advocating, and encouraging
others to explore and protect wild spaces continues to grow
each week. We are so grateful to each of
you who tunes in, whether you'rehiking a trail, driving to work,
or simply dreaming of your next outdoor escape.
Thank you for your continued support and for finding
(34:47):
inspiration in our episodes. This is a special season of our
life for our family, and we're choosing to embrace it fully.
We're sharing our love of the outdoors with our daughter and
giving her the gift of time in nature, a gift we believe is as
important as any. We do plan to return to our
regular schedule of 4 episodes per month, most likely sometime
(35:09):
this winter, and we'll keep you posted In the meantime.
We encourage you to make the most of this vibrant season.
Go outside, explore and let nature fill your cup.
Thanks again for being here withus.
We truly love doing this and we're excited for everything
still to come. Now the Junior Ranger portion
(35:30):
before we wrap up this episode. There are potentially thousands
of species that call Pinnacles home.
This makes it incredibly difficult to even skim the
surface of talking about the parks inhabitants.
We hope you enjoyed the plant and animal highlights we chose
today. An interesting inhabitant of
Pinnacles is the lichen population.
(35:52):
There are over 90 lichens at Pinnacles breaking down rocks.
Lichens are a complex life form that is a symbiotic partnership
of two separate organisms, fungus and algae.
The dominant partner is the fungus, which gives the lichen
the majority of its characteristics, from its talus
shape to its fruiting bodies. Lichen makes its food from the
(36:15):
sunlight and absorbs nutrients from the air and rain.
Lichen looks like splotches of paint on rocks or hairy beards
growing on trees. Do you live in a place where
lichen grows? If you do, next time you are
outside, find a rock or tree that has lichen on it and
observe it. It is easy to confuse lichen
(36:37):
with Moss. If you see tiny leaves then it
is probably a Moss. The Pinnacles Junior Ranger
Handbook highlights lichen and has a place to draw the lichen
you observe. We encourage you to seek out the
Junior Ranger Handbook on the NPS website, complete it and
send it in to receive your Pinnacles Junior Ranger badge.
(36:59):
The final section of the handbook is a fun, thought
provoking activity. Create your own National Park.
Think of a place near you that you think should be a National
Park or National Park unit. Is it a natural site, cultural
site, or both? What would you name this
National Park? Why should this place be a
(37:20):
National Park? Have fun creating the next
National Park. We hope you had fun learning all
about Pinnacles National Park with us.
It is a remarkable blend of geological wonder, ecological
richness, and cultural significance.
From its dramatic Spires and talus caves to its thriving
biodiversity, the park offers a living laboratory for science
(37:42):
and a sanctuary for nature. Whether experienced through a
solitary sunrise in the High Peaks or a family picnic beneath
coast live oaks, Pinnacles invites reflection, discovery,
and a deeper appreciation for the wild places that sustain us
all. If you haven't visited Pinnacles
yet, we hope this inspired you to add it to your bucket list.
(38:05):
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, share, and
follow us for more outdoor adventures.
And to all you Junior Rangers out there, good luck on earning
your badge. And hey, if you've earned a
Junior Ranger badge recently, send us a picture.
We'd love to see it. And if you want, feel free to
share your latest story from your time in a National Park
unit. Who knows, maybe we will mention
(38:27):
it in one of our upcoming episodes.
Be sure to include in the e-mailthat you grant us permission to
Share your story. I will include our e-mail
address npjrpodcast@gmail.com inour show notes.
And feel free to follow us on our adventures on Instagram at
NPJR Podcast. Until next time, happy trails
(38:47):
and remember the Earth is ours to explore and protect, so let's
get out there and do it. Explore, learn and protect.
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