Burrowed deep in the sweeping Salinas Valley, this national park is characterized by a rather enchanting set of rock formations called the Pinnacles which were created as a result of ancient volcanic activity. Spread over 26,606 acres (10,767 hectares), the park attracts rock climbers as well as avid nature enthusiasts, thanks to its rocky and craggy landscape. Uninhibited drapes of wilderness adorn this park which boasts some of the best, most dramatic vistas that central California has to offer. A safe haven for creatures such as California condors, prairie falcons and Townsend's big-eared bats, the park, along with being a geological and archaeological site, is also endowed with a wealth of many natural wonders. The park is traversed by winding trails, while its mysterious rock formations glint in hues of fine golden under the candor of the Californian sun. Interesting places to explore at the park apart from the Pinnacles are the Balconies and Bear Gulch rock caves.
Established in 1791, the Mission Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is the thirteenth of the Spanish missions in California. Dedicated to Our Lady of Solitude, the mission also lends its name to the town of Soledad where it is located. Although parts of the site including the chapel were reconstructed in 1954, the cemetery and some other buildings still retain their original features. Open to public, the site now functions as a place of worship and a museum.
The Arroyo Seco river is host to some of the rarest fauna such as the southwestern pond turtle and the California spotted owl. Other than its rich ecological habitat, there are recreation areas and campgrounds at some points of the river, which are very popular with hikers and campers. One can enjoy the best of pristine nature along the banks of Arroyo Seco.
Blas Santana Park in Soledad is an expansive, green space which is ideal for a stroll, or a game of football. People often gather here to play some football or baseball, or simply enjoy a nice picnic. Visitors with families, especially small children, can let the young ones run free at the kid's playground which is situated within the city park.
Los Coches Adobe was initially a ranch back in the day, before it became a very popular inn and pit stop, during the heyday of the railways which ran between San Francisco and Los Angeles, traveling via Soledad. Now, the classic house stands vacant, but serves as an important historic relic for the city, and its legacy as a railway town.
Follow over 200 miles (321 kilometers) lush green trails winding through scenic wilderness and embark on exhilarating adventures at Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area. This state park unit beckons avid outdoor and motorsport enthusiasts over to explore the picturesque environs of the area through vehicles of their choice, be it four-wheelers, ATVs, or motorcycles. Visitors can also settle for picnics at designated spots that are surrounded crystal-clear creeks, verdant canyons, undulating knolls and hills, and oak-sprinkled woodlands.
Located off the Airline Highway, the Bolado Park is a open-air venue. This multi-functional space hosts variety of events throughout the year; every show is well-attended. Live music concerts, visiting circuses, music festivals and similar functions are held here. In the past, the likes of Soul Kiss, Border Radio and OMGG have performed here; Bolado Park was also home to the Good Old Fashioned Bluegrass Festival. With all these shows and activities, there is no space for boredom or a dull moment at the Bolado Park.
The Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum was established in order to educate visitors about the historic facts and lifestyle of the inhabitants in King City in the earlier times. It is a historic park that consists of a collection of old houses that have been restored to its original form. A few of the establishments that you will come across are the Olson Blacksmith Shop, Spreckels House, King City Train Depot and many more. They also have other exhibits displayed in the outdoors such as agricultural equipments and other artifacts.
Follow over 200 miles (321 kilometers) lush green trails winding through scenic wilderness and embark on exhilarating adventures at Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area. This state park unit beckons avid outdoor and motorsport enthusiasts over to explore the picturesque environs of the area through vehicles of their choice, be it four-wheelers, ATVs, or motorcycles. Visitors can also settle for picnics at designated spots that are surrounded crystal-clear creeks, verdant canyons, undulating knolls and hills, and oak-sprinkled woodlands.
Burrowed deep in the sweeping Salinas Valley, this national park is characterized by a rather enchanting set of rock formations called the Pinnacles which were created as a result of ancient volcanic activity. Spread over 26,606 acres (10,767 hectares), the park attracts rock climbers as well as avid nature enthusiasts, thanks to its rocky and craggy landscape. Uninhibited drapes of wilderness adorn this park which boasts some of the best, most dramatic vistas that central California has to offer. A safe haven for creatures such as California condors, prairie falcons and Townsend's big-eared bats, the park, along with being a geological and archaeological site, is also endowed with a wealth of many natural wonders. The park is traversed by winding trails, while its mysterious rock formations glint in hues of fine golden under the candor of the Californian sun. Interesting places to explore at the park apart from the Pinnacles are the Balconies and Bear Gulch rock caves.
Established in 1791, the Mission Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is the thirteenth of the Spanish missions in California. Dedicated to Our Lady of Solitude, the mission also lends its name to the town of Soledad where it is located. Although parts of the site including the chapel were reconstructed in 1954, the cemetery and some other buildings still retain their original features. Open to public, the site now functions as a place of worship and a museum.