The Trona Pinnacles is one of the most unusual geological features in the California Desert Conservation Area. The unusual landscape consists of more than 500 tufa spires, some as high as 140 feet, rising from the bed of the Searles Lake. The pinnacles vary in size and shape from short and squat to tall and thin, and are composed primarily of calcium carbonate (tufa) that formed underwater. They now sit isolated and slowly crumbling away near the south end of the valley, surrounded by many square miles of flat, dried mud and with stark mountain ranges at either side.
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Ridgecrest Field Office

Trona Pinnacles

Visitor
Activities:

hikers

Hiking

 table 
 

Picnics

camera
 

Photography



Plus: Geologic sightseeing

locationLocation: 20 miles east of Ridgecrest, California.

pen-noteDescription
The Trona Pinnacles are some of the most unique geological features in the California Desert Conservation Area. The unusual landscape consists of more than 500 tufa spires, some as high as 140 feet, rising from the bed of the Searles Dry Lake basin. The pinnacles vary in size and shape from short and squat to tall and thin, and are composed primarily of calcium carbonate (tufa). The Trona Pinnacles have been featured in many commercials, films, and still-photo shoots.

compassDirections
From Ridgecrest, travel 20 miles east on State Highway 178 to its intersection with Trona-Red Mountain Road. Continue east on Highway 178 for 7.7 miles, and access the site by a dirt road leading off Highway 178 to the south.

checkmarkPermits, Fees, Limitations
Visitors are urged to remain on designated routes or trails.

wheelchairAccessibility
None

campingCamping and Lodging
Primitive camping is permitted; there are no developed sites. Lodging is available in Ridgecrest.

coffee cupFood and Supplies
Food and supplies are available in Ridgecrest.

red crossFirst Aid
The nearest hospital or place for other assistance is Ridgecrest.

noteKnow before you go

The site is open year-round; the best times to visit are fall, winter and early spring.  Sturdy hiking or walking shoes are recommended - tufa cuts like coral.  The dirt access road is usually accessible by two-wheel drive vehicles. Following a rain, however, the road may be impassable to all vehicles, including by four-wheel-drive vehicles.

more infoFor more information, contact:

Bureau of Land Management
Ridgecrest Field Office
300 S. Richmond Rd.
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone: (760) 384-5400
Fax: (760) 384-5499

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Last updated: 08-17-2011