Explore Trona Pinnacles: Ancient Rock Formations in Kern County

Trona Pinnacles is situated roughly 20 miles to the east of Ridgecrest in northeastern Kern County. The terrain in this area resembles something you might see in a science fiction movie. The tufa pinnacles found here have been used as filming locations for movies such as Star Trek V: The Final Frontier and the original Planet of the Apes film.

The Trona Pinnacles are unique rock formations created over 10,000 years ago when this area of the Mojave Desert was covered by water. After thousands of years, the lake that once covered the site disappeared, leaving behind only the wind-swept towers we see today.

Trona Pinnacles National Natural Landmark has three groups of tufa towers. The northern section has the tallest towers, several over 100 feet high. The southernmost part contains the oldest pinnacles, some almost 100,000 years old. More towering spires are the newest, and round and ground-down spires are the most senior.

Primitive camping is allowed at the Trona Pinnacles, and if you do decide to stay overnight, you will be treated to a spectacular display of stars. Packs of coyotes are known to roam the area, so keep an eye on pets & kids day or night. Most visitors only stay a few hours to view and photograph the Pinnacles. The best time to visit is in the fall or spring. Summer temperatures reach over 100 degrees.

There are plenty of trails to explore and numerous dirt roads that wind through the Tufa towers. Four-wheel drive isn’t necessary, as any car can easily make it down the five-mile dirt road from SR 178. Remember that no services are available at Trona Pinnacles National Natural Landmark, except for a pit toilet. Therefore, make sure you’re prepared for this trip. Visiting the Pinnacles is an adventure off the beaten path and suitable for the most adventurous day-trippers.

Trona Gem Show

The annual Trona Searles Dry Lake Gem Show, held on the second weekend of October, is the perfect time to visit. During this event, visitors can drive onto Searles Dry Lake and collect minerals, which is the only time the dry lake is open to the public.

At the gem show, dealers exhibit geodes, salt crystals, and Pink Halite that can be collected on and near the dry lake. Admission to the show is free.

The small mining town of Trona has an interesting museum in an old guest house. The museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts and photographs from the area, including a Caboose from the Trona Railroad.

Directions to Trona Pinnacles

The Bureau of Land Management manages Trona Pinnacles National Natural Landmark. Directions: Highway 14 north to Lancaster and Mojave. East State Highway 178 toward Ridgecrest. East on SR 178  to the end of Highway 178, where Highway 178 becomes Trona Road.

From the end of Highway 178, turn right onto Pinnacles Road (dirt road.) Take the right fork just before you get to the railroad tracks. Follow the route for about a half-mile, cross over the tracks, and then turn right. Continue on Pinnacles Dirt Road for about five bumpy miles to Pinnacles National Natural Landmark. Trona Pinnacles is about 170 miles from Los Angeles.

Unusual Things to Do in Southern California

Desert View Tower and Rock Garden

Pinnacles National Park