
Voted 10/10 | Unfortunately, Pinnacles NM permits day use only. No backpacking, and no hiking in the dark. As mentioned on NPS page, "summer hours" are 07:30-21:00. On both the eastern and western entrances, gates are locked. Getting caught behind a locked gate will earn you the ire of the ranger who has to stay behind to unlock it, as well as a pricy ticket.
Special note: I, "mpbro", was able to enter the park (east side) on two successive weekend days, well before the 07:30 opening time. Regarding the de facto opening time, snwburd notes, "I think it's pretty much up to when the ranger decides to get to work in the morning. Last time I was there, I was too early (didn't know they had a curfew) and had to hang out for the ranger to show up. That morning he was 1/2 hour late, offered no explanation, apology, or even a greeting, as I recall." In the summer, an extra hour in the morning can make the climbing day longer and more enjoyable. |