Trona Pinnacles National Natural Landmark

Rising like alien monuments from the Searles Valley floor, the Trona Pinnacles are 500+ calcium carbonate spires formed by underwater springs from an ancient lake. These otherworldly towers reach up to 140 feet high and have served as the backdrop for dozens of films from Planet of the Apes to Star Trek. The 3.5-mile interpretive loop road provides close access to the formations, with countless photo opportunities and scrambling routes through the maze of towers.

Access via paved Trona-Wildrose Road, then 5 miles on well-maintained dirt road suitable for any vehicle. No facilities or shade — bring water and sun protection. Best visited October through April when temperatures are tolerable. Evening light turns the pinnacles golden while sunrise creates dramatic shadows between the spires.

Alien landscape of 500 towering tufa spires