Pinnacles National Park - home to the California Condor

Although Pinnacles had been protected since 1908 as a National Monument, it finally received National Park status in 2013. Hiking the high peaks trail, we were fortunate to spot a handful of California Condors soaring around the high cliffs. The Condor is the largest North American land bird with a wingspan reaching nearly 10 feet and can live up to 60 years. In 1987, all remaining 27 California Condors were placed in captivity for protection. They were again reintroduced to the wild in 1991 and their population is now estimated at around 550 birds. A great recovery story.