The Pinnacles
Towering volcanic fumarole spires in a canyon at the park's southeast corner, eroded remnants of ash cemented by hot gases.
The Pinnacles lie at the end of Pinnacles Road, about 10 km beyond the southeast end of the lake road. Dozens of pale stone columns, up to 30 m tall, rise along both sides of the canyon. When Mount Mazama erupted, pumice and volcanic ash piled up. Hot gases rising through fissures cemented the surrounding material and hardened it. Later, streams washed away the loose parts, leaving these “fossil fumaroles.” A gentle path beside the car park follows the canyon edge for about 1.6 km round trip. Visitor numbers are low, so it pairs well with the Phantom Ship and Plaikni Falls on the same route.
Opening hours
Seasonal, approx. Jul–Oct
Nearby sights
- Plaikni Falls
- Mount Scott
- Phantom Ship Overlook
- Vidae Falls
- Garfield Peak
- Castle Crest Wildflower Trail
- Steel Visitor Center
- Rim Village & Crater Lake Lodge