Night Programs are offered occasionally on Fridays or Saturdays in spring, summer, and fall. These programs include full moon and dark sky hikes, bat viewings, and astronomy programs. Space is limited, so reservations are often required so we can allow more groups the opportunity to participate in night programs. Any group is limited to six spots per program.

Reservations  can be made in person or by calling 831-389-4486 ext. 243.

Friday, August 29, 2008

Astronomy Program
Pinnacles Campground
East Side, Pinnacles National Monument
No Reservations Required
8:00 PM

Join amateur astronomers for a night under the stars. In cooperation with Pinnacles Partnership, this gathering will showcase Pinnacles' dark sky and excellent star gazing conditions.

Starting at 8:00 pm with a ranger talk at the campground amphitheater, participants are welcome to look through several telescopes that will be set up in the large gravel lot adjacent to the amphitheater.

Proper star gazing etiquette is expected. This includes being cognizant of where headlights and flashlights are pointed, being extremely careful around the telescopes, and respecting other visitors that are in the area. 

For more information, call 831.389.4486 ext. 243 or e-mail us

Friday, October 3rd, 2008

Astronomy Program
Chaparral Ranger Station
Westside, Pinnacles National Monument
No Reservations Required

Pinnacles National Monument, in partnership with Hartnell College, will host a telescope viewing near the Chaparral Ranger Station on the park’s west side on Friday, October 3, from 7:30 to 10 p.m.  Views of star clusters and other deep sky wonders will be made available to the general public at this pristine dark sky location.

Hartnell College students who are currently serving as summer interns at the Fremont Peak Observatory and students from the Salinas High School Astronomy Club will be on hand to operate several small telescopes and answer questions about celestial objects. This star gazing event begins with a short talk about the Pinnacles at 7:30 p.m., followed by the telescope viewing.  

The westside gate closes at 8:00 pm.  
All attendees must be inside the park before 8 p.m.  There will be no admittance to the park after 8 p.m., but visitors may exit the park at any time.

The west side of Pinnacles are accessed by exiting highway 101 at Soledad and following the clearly marked directional signs on highway 146 for 12 miles.

For more information please call 831-389-4486 ext. 243.