Getting to Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park sits in CA, United States, with Soledad the nearest town of any size — about 10 mi (16.1 km) out, or roughly 27 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Soledad | 10 mi (16.1 km) | 27 min |
| Greenfield | 11.9 mi (19.2 km) | 32 min |
| Gonzales | 15.9 mi (25.6 km) | 39 min |
| King City | 18.6 mi (29.9 km) | 44 min |
| Chualar | 20.9 mi (33.6 km) | 48 min |
| Ridgemark | 25.6 mi (41.3 km) | 56 min |
| Hollister | 29 mi (46.7 km) | 1 hr 2 min |
| Salinas | 30.7 mi (49.4 km) | 1 hr 5 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Pinnacles National Park?
Soledad, about 10 mi (16.1 km) away — roughly 27 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Pinnacles National Park?
The practical bases are Soledad, Greenfield, and Gonzales — all within a reasonable drive of the park.