Casting large shadows over the rugged landscape of the Pinnacles are the legendary California Condors! These immense but shy scavengers, among the largest of North America, soar through the mountain air with a wingspan of nearly 10 feet! The Pinnacles, south of Hollister, are one of the few places in northern California where these great “flying coffee tables” can still be seen. This newly-created 23,000 acre national park is composed of rugged volcanic peaks with chaparral-dotted hillsides, oak woodlands and riparian corridors. The park teems with many birds in addition to the Condors (the checklist includes 181 species observed), including falcons, quail, hummingbirds, finches, blackbirds and woodpeckers. Spring wildflowers and butterflies will add extra sparkle to the countryside. We will meet at the Visitor’s Center at the Eastern entrance. Relaxed hiking on level or low-grade trails. Great opportunities for landscape photography. Bring lunch and plenty of drinks; parking fee.