Education

A Park Ranger welcomes students and teachers to Pinnacles.

Photo by NPS/Kurt Moses

 

Educational Opportunities at Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park offers a variety of opportunities for classrooms and organizations to explore the diverse ecosystems and geological beauty of this unique landscape.

Plan a Ranger-Guided Field Trip

IMPORTANT NOTE: Ranger-led field trips are currently unavailable due to staffing availability.

Did you know you can bring your students to Pinnacles National Park for a free ranger-guided field trip? Ranger-led programs are held on the east side of the park. Note that the road system on the west side cannot accommodate buses. Transportation reimbursement may be available for some qualifying schools. Contact the park for more details.

• Service Learning Field Trips: Want a more hands-on experience for your students? Service learning field trips may be scheduled throughout the school year.
• Reservations: Required for all ranger-guided field trips, and space is limited. Please send inquiries to [e-mail] or call 831-389-4486 ext 243.

Schedule a Ranger Visit

Having trouble gathering your group for a trip to Pinnacles? Schedule a ranger to come to you, for free. Ranger visits can be scheduled year-round, Wednesday through Friday. Please send inquiries to [e-mail].

Plan a Self-Guided Field Trip

Planning to take your classroom on a field trip to Pinnacles but don't need a ranger as a guide? A ranger is not required for self-guided excursions in the park. No scheduling is necessary; however, you may request an entrance fee waiver.

Entrance Fee Waiver for Educational Field Trips

Visits from accredited educational institutions can have park entrance fees waived. You will need to apply for a fee waiver and complete sections 1, 2, and 5. Submit your application to:

Pinnacles National Park
Attn: Mike Brindeiro
5000 East Entrance Road
Paicines, CA 95043
Email: [e-mail]

Allow 60 days for your application to be processed.

 

Children of all ages can complete their Junior Ranger book and earn a badge.

Photo by NPS/Kurt Moses

Junior Ranger

Want to learn more about Pinnacles National Park as you hike and explore? Check out our free Junior Ranger program! You can ask for information at the West Visitor Contact Station or the Bear Gulch Nature Center, or download a copy of our Junior Ranger Book.

Important Note: Booklets are currently unavailable on site, so please download one before visiting.