Balconies Trail begins at the Chaparral Ranger Station. The trail leads northeastward .6 miles, following the West Fork of the Chalone Creek, to a fork. This is the beginning, and end, of a 1.2 mile loop that leads through terrain that quintessentially represents Pinnacles National Monument. Hikers that take the right side of the fork will reach the Balconies Caves in .1 miles. The end of the small loop comes .4 miles from the fork in the trail. The Old Pinnacles Trail leads to the right at this fork and Balconies Trail leads to the left. The northern portion of the loop winds for .8 miles above the drainage. Upon reaching the end of the loop hikers should turn right to reach the Chaparral Rangers Station in .6 miles. The total mileage for this hike is 2.4 miles. It is rated as moderately difficult by the park service staff.

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

Ending Elevation: 1,401 feet

Elevation Gain: 320 feet

Usage: Heavy

Difficulty: Moderate

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