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| - Great hike! Excellent for beginners, fitness buffs, or visitors looking for a good view. The trail is 1.75 miles each way, and the signs suggest allowing 2 hours to complete it. The trail is not a loop, and consists of two summits. The first summit is Pinnacle Peak itself, with 1/2 mile leading up to the Grand View. The highest point of the trail is just before the 3/4 mile mark. Just before the one mile marker is the Owl's Rest, a nice stone circular seating area that offers great views of the Valley. The trail up and down the second summit is only 3/4 of a mile, but it is much steeper. The first summit can be completed by people of all fitness levels and offers some of the best views, while the second summit is better for those looking for a cardio workout.
I recently moved to the area and started hiking the trail last month. With little to no prior hiking experience, my first trip was a challenge. We went on a Saturday around 9 am when temperatures were in the mid-80s. I took the first part of the trail too quickly and had to take a long break on the way back from the second summit. Despite struggling, we finished the hike in 1 hour and 50 minutes. Since then, I have hiked Pinnacle 4 more times, on both weekdays and weekends. With enough water and short breaks, I have been able to complete the hike in under an hour and 30 minutes.
Most people I encounter on the trail have been friendly and respectful, with the occasional runner speeding by with no warning. I have also seen a few runners take a tumble, so please be careful! The terrain throughout is mostly smooth but there are some rockier parts so trail runners/light hiking shoes may be helpful.
The trailhead facilities are very well-maintained, and offer restrooms, water fountains, and trail information. In addition, there are volunteers who walk the trail each day offering water. Parking can be a problem, but I have gone at peak times and still been able to find a space in the lot itself.
Advice for locals: go after a rainstorm. The views are spectacular and the air smells wonderful. I went on a Saturday morning around 7:30 am and braved the 40 degree weather. I saw less than 10 other people and enjoyed some tranquility on the usually crowded trail.
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