Headed to the Trona Pinnacles in the California desert? What a strange and unexpected escape from Southern California! Here is everything you need to know to plan a visit to the Trona Pinnacles, from Trona Pinnacles geology, to Trona Pinnacles camping, to movies filmed here, and more!
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When I first saw images of the Trona Pinnacles, I was completely blown away. This area truly looks like another planet, with wild rock formations and rugged landscapes.
I had a ton of questions. What are these strange natural rock formations, rising straight up out of the dry, flat earth?! Are they even real?! How did they form and where are they?
Similarly strange to the wild boulders at Joshua Tree or the spiky peaks at Vasquez Rocks, the Trona Pinnacles was something I needed to see in person.
I immediately began planning a solo road trip to visit these unique rocks known as the Trona Pinnacles. Spoiler alert – it did not disappoint!
Now, after several visits and lots of research, I can share everything you need to know about this under-the-radar California destination so that you can plan your visit, too.
All About the Trona Pinnacles’ Geology
The Trona Pinnacles are in fact naturally formed. They are between 10,000 and 100,000 years old, and used to sit submerged under more than 600 feet of water. No wonder they look like they belong at the bottom of the ocean!
The Pinnacles sit on the Searles Lake Valley, which stretches vast and seemingly endless across the desert. Though now completely dried up, the Searles Lake Valley used to connect the lakes that once flowed from the Owens Valley to Death Valley National Park.
Rising from the bottom of this former ancient lakebed, the Trona Pinnacles are hands-down one of the most unique landscapes I’ve seen in the Mojave Desert.
The rock formations are called “tufas” and they are large porous rocks that were formed from the interaction of calcium-rich groundwater and alkaline lake water.
The Pinnacles range from small mounds to over 140 feet tall, and there are four different types:
- Towers– tall and skinny, 30-40ft
- Tombstones– short and wide,20-30ft
- Ridges– tufa “ruins”, 140-800ft across
- Cones– low stumpy mounds, 10ft
Lastly, there are more than 500 of these wild spires left for you to explore.
Trona Pinnacles Basics
- GPS Coordinates: 35.68143 / -117.39033
- Cost to Visit: Free!
- Road Conditions: Unpaved road with lots of large potholes. See below for recommendations on 2WD vs. 4WD.
- What To Do Here: Hiking, photography, camping, climbing.
- Pet Friendly: Yes
- Park Hours: 24 Hours. No staff or rangers present.
- Cell Phone Reception: Little to none.
How Do You get to the Trona Pinnacles?
The Trona Pinnacles are roughly three hours outside of Los Angeles, CA, and 4.5 hours from the San Diego area.
To reach the Trona Pinnacles, you’ll head north on I-5 to CA-14 North, toward Death Valley. Follow SR 178 past Ridgecrest, CA, and roughly 20 miles along you’ll see a sign for Trona Pinnacles.
The area is fairly desolate and empty, indicating that you have reached the right place! Be sure to download your maps ahead of time as there is little to no cell service in the area.
After turning toward the Trona Pinnacles, and onto the BLM land, expect to drive another 5 miles or so past the initial signpost. The road is unpaved and it’s fairly bumpy, with large rocks and pothole areas. drive slow and carefully.
You’ll begin to see the tufas way off in the distance, rising alien-like from the ground.
Do you need 4WD for a Trona Pinnacles trip?
In the summer, or when everything is bone dry, you can absolutely reach the Pinnacles with a standard car. I’ve driven there in a Prius and my only warning is to not drive the final steep hill once you reach the destination.
You will know exactly what hill I mean when you see it (there’s no missing it). It is the final descent down to the main tufas. Be safe, park, and just walk down from there, instead.
For full “door to door” access, or during any periods of rain, definitely take a 4WD vehicle.
These roads are unkempt and there is little to no cell service that far into the desert. If you are camping at the Trona Pinnacles, it’s also nice to have a 4WD vehicle so you can park next to your campsite.
A Trona Pinnacles map:
Trona Pinnacles Weather
This patch of the Mojave Desert is dry and hot. But, like most deserts, the temperatures can vary in the extremes. Here is what to expect from the Trona Pinnacles weather during each season:
Spring
The Searles Lake Valley has great weather at this time of year, with highs typically in the 80s and lows in the 50s. In May, things will start to heat up and potentially reach the 90s, but overnight will still be cool and comfortable for camping.
Summer
Summer months at the Trona Pinnacles will be extremely hot. Temperatures can heat up to around 110 degrees regularly, and there is little to no shade in the area. Less strenuous activities are ideal, but be aware of desert safety tips.
Fall
Fall weather here is similar to spring, with highs in the 70s and 80s and lows in the 40s and 50s. This is a great time for camping, once the temperatures drop. Note that the daylight hours are getting shorter, so plan to arrive early enough to set up camp.
Winter
The winter temperatures hover around 70 degrees at the high point and can drop into the 30s overnight. While this is a great season for hiking and exploring, camping can definitely get chilly! Also check ahead for rains and flooding.
When is the best time to visit the Trona Pinnacles?
It depends on what you want to see here, as well as what vehicle you will be driving in.
In general, the best times to visit the Trona Pinnacles is in fall, winter and spring. I’ve visited the Trona Pinnacles in the dead of summer and the heat is seriously intense.
However, on the positive side, driving is easier in the summer as the dirt road is dry and firm. On the negative side, you will have to bring lots and lots of water and be mindful of desert hiking essentials.
In the winter, the temperature is much more comfortable for hiking and camping. But, because rain is more common in the winter months, you will need to be extra careful driving here, particularly if you don’t have a 4WD vehicle.
I’ve been here in both seasons and it is fascinating no matter when you visit. You just need to plan ahead.
A Trona Pinnacles Camping Guide
Can you camp at Trona Pinnacles? Why yes, you can! And it’s super easy to do so.
The Trona Pinnacles sit on designated BLM Land, meaning that you have access to free dispersed camping. You may set up your campsite anywhere you like.
I highly recommend arriving here while the sun is still up to set up your camp. This area is hard to navigate at night due to the lack of surrounding lights and the rugged ground. Setting up will be a lot easier during the day.
A few things to note about Trona Pinnacles camping:
- It can be fairly windy here, so setting up your camp near to the Pinnacles can help to block some wind.
- This area is popular for astrophotography, as it is a far cry from any city lights. try it out yourself!
- It’s quite possible you will have the place all to yourself. I’ve only ever traveled here solo, and was completely safe each time.
- Please pack out all trash so that the next visitor has as great of a visit as you hopefully did.
Trona Pinnacles at night
Trona Pinnacles is a safe place at night, in general.
Far from the bright cities, the stargazing is superb. And, oftentimes, there is no one else around. However, since this area is so remote, and cell service is so limited, it is not a bad idea to camp here with friends rather than solo if possible.
What To Pack
When visiting this rugged desert area, there are a number of items that I recommend year round. Here are my top picks.
No matter what time of year you visit, you will need to plan ahead. Borrego Springs is pretty remote, and you don’t have a ton of nearby options for food, clothing, or necessities.
Rugged Trekking Sandals
I wear these these exact sandals basically everywhere, particularly in the desert. They have traveled across six continents and ae still going strong! Could not recommend them more. Get yours here!
A Hydration Backpack
A Camelbak backpack can literally save your life. It is ideal for hiking – particularly for desert hiking. Though the exact model that I own is no longer available, get one with a large water bladder and extra room for snacks and gear. Get yours here!
Moisture Wicking Shirts
If you visit this area in spring or summer, the heat is going to be oppressive! Wear a moisture wicking top to keep yourself cool and dry. Columbia products are some of my fave, and they have never let me down in heat or cold. Get yours here!
A Wide Brim Hat
My favorite hat has been all around the world with me and it’s perfect for the strong desert sun! A wide brim keeps the sun off of your face. It is fully adjustable so you can find your perfect size. Get yours here!
Eco Friendly Sunscreen
Don’t forget to pack a strong sunscreen to protect your skin from the desert sun. While the sun may be strongest during the summer months, you should wear this year round. Get yours here!
A Cooling Bandana
This bandana is a necessity if you plan to do some desert hiking around the Trona Pinnacles. It absorbs water and will instantly cool you off, even in the triple digit months. It has built in UPF 50 protection. Get yours here!
Biodegradable Body Wipes
Have I convinced you yet of just how hot and sweaty you may get here? Plan ahead by packing these body wipes, particularly if you plan to camp. Your tent-mate will thank you. Get yours here!
A Tiny First Aid Kit
Don’t head into the desert without a first aid kit! This tiny kit comes in a small package but has everything you need. It won’t take up much space, but it will be there when you need it. Get yours here!
A High Quality Headlamp
Packing a high-quality headlamp is a must if you plan to camp. At night, when all of the terrain begins to look the same, this small headlamp will light your way. Get yours here!
What Movies were Filmed at the Trona Pinnacles?
For obvious reasons, the landscape lends itself to science fiction productions. The tufas are pretty otherworldly, after all.
Some television shows and movies that have been filmed between these sprawling rocks include:
- Star Trek V: The Final Frontier
- Battlestar Gallactica
- Dinosaur
- Lost in Space
- Planet of the Apes
FAQs
Is Trona Pinnacles a National Park?
No it is not. the Trona Pinnacles are found on BLM land, meaning it is free to visit and allows free dispersed camping.
Where is Trona, CA?
The small town of Trona is found roughly three hours north of Los Angeles, in San Bernardino County, heading toward Death Valley National Park.
Do people still live in Trona CA?
At the last census poll, only 83 people lived in Trona, California.
Is it safe to camp at Trona Pinnacles?
it is in general safe to camp at the Trona Pinnacles. However, campers should plan ahead and pack lots of water, food, and safety equipment ahead of time. A full list of what to pack is listed above.
Is the Trona Pinnacles worth visiting?
Hands down yes! The Trona Pinnacles is an incredibly cool, otherworldly landscape that seems to be from another planet. If you want solitude, free camping, or just a wild and rugged day trip, then this is a road trip for you.
Is Trona Pinnacles BLM land?
Yes, they are found on BLM land. This indicates that dispersed camping is free and there are no entrance fees.
Do you need a permit to visit the Trona Pinnacles?
You do not need any type of permit or pass to visit, camp, or drive to the Trona Pinnacles. All visitors can do so completely free.
Final Thoughts on the Trona Pinnacles
When researching the desert sights in California, it’s understandable that you’ve prbbly heard more abut visiting Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, or Death Valley above the Trona Pinnacles.
While Joshua Tree is my all time favorite park, and Death Valley is incredible, if youve already seen them, consider the Trona Pinnacles. These unique rock formations will impress you at every turn.
They are wild, interesting, and otherworldly.
The Trona Pinnacles is an under the radar desert spot that is so unexpected in the middle of the flat Searles Lake Valley. Spending a night, or even just a day here, will temporarily transport you to another planet.
I can’t recommend this spot enough if you want rugged, wild, and off the beaten path!
You May Also Like:
- A Complete Guide to Red Rock Canyon State Park
- A Death Valley to Joshua Tree Road Trip
- Visiting Anza Borrego Desert State Park
- All of the Borrego Springs Sculptures at Galleta Meadows
- One Day in Joshua Tree National Park
- 5 Unforgettable Desert Region Parks in California
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Myself and family lived in Trona for about 10 years in the 1980,’s. There are 3 communities and we lived in the middle one, Trona. Very near the high school. Sometimes it snowed in winter but summer was hot like Death Valley. Coming from Southern Californias beach cities it was a huge change. Wouldn’t change it for anything. Quite an experience.
Wow, I never thought it would snow there! I’ve only been there during the hot and dry months.
It’s such a cool little area, lots of interesting nature surrounding it!