This trail leads into the northern reaches of the monument. It begins at theChaparral Ranger Station and ends at Old Pinnacles Trail.

The North Wilderness Trail leads from the Chaparral Ranger Station to the Old Pinnacles Trail. The trail begins by leading northwestward from the Chaparral Ranger Station in the western side of the monument. It follows a small drainage for approximately one and a half miles. The trail leaves the stream heading north on a ridgeline. After about two and a half miles of winding trail the path meets North Fork Chalone Creek. The trail follows this drainage eastward for over a mile. The creek turns southward and the trail follows toward the intersection with Old Pinnacles Trail. The two trails meet close to the confluence of North Fork of Chalone Creek and the West Fork of Chalone Creek. The distance for this trail is 7.6 miles one-way. From this intersection it is one mile to the Chalone Creek Picnic Area or 2.3 miles back to the Chaparral Ranger Station. This trail is unmaintained and considered very strenuous by the park service.

Directions: From Soledad, Follow Highway 146 12 miles to the Chaparral Ranger Station. The trail begins from the northern end of the parking area.

Elevation: 1,401 feet

Elevation Gain: 300 feet

Usage: Moderate

Difficulty: Strenuous

Visitor Information

Contact Wildernet