The Pinnacles – Wandering close to home

This section of our blog is aptly called “Wandering” as we rarely go directly from point A to point B. We are big on back-roads, detours, anything off the beaten path. What most would consider a short distance drive, for example Santa Cruz to the Pinnacles: one hour and a half drive, takes us the better part of a day!

On Tuesday, in the winter, during Covid, the shops and Mission were closed.

Just as we get back into the truck, heading out of town, we spot a coffee roaster. Stopping again, to savor a wonderful Cortado/Gibraltar,

it was so yummy we went back in and bought two bags of coffee beans.

This time of year, the still green hillsides are a rare and gorgeous spectacle. Soon all will be brown and dry.

This is “Downtown” Paicines on Highway 25. It the distant photo it becomes clear that this store is the entire town of Paicines!

It is late afternoon, and we finally arrive at the Pinnacles National Park Campground. We didn’t realize the campground is 2 ½ miles from the central park and main hiking trails.

Of course, during the week the shuttle doesn’t run. Should have brought our bikes. Lesson learned, always bring the bikes.

The following morning, we managed to walk from the campground to the park, complete the cave trail, then on up to the reservoir.

Beautiful time of year to visit. Not very many visitors and not yet too hot.

On the way home we especially wanted tacos, authentic Mexican tacos. Google and Yelp searches indicated the best authentic tacos at K&K Taqueria.

Ok, following the directions ……………………….

This is my favorite part of our story for this trip. It is important to note, we are foodies; we love truly good food. Not necessary fancy or expensive, but authentic, freshly made, quality ingredients. We have been known to go way out of our way on the recommendation of a great place to eat.

Hum????

Yep, this is it. An adventure, we are hungry and curious. Sure enough inside this gas station ……………….

Is a taco bar, made to order, fresh off the grill, choice of several fresh made salsas.

And Yes, they were delicious!!

Until next time….. Thanks for sharing our adventures. Always love to hear your comments.