FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pinnacles National Monument's west side and all park trails are open. "Pinnacles has been working closely with Cal Fire and with the fire completely contained and all evacuations and road closures lifted, I am comfortable lifting the park's temporary closures," Superintendent Eric Brunnemann explained. "With the reopening of Metz Road, HWY 146, and mop up operations underway, I feel it is safe for visitors and staff to renter the areas that were temporary closed," Brunnemann continued. Firefighters have been able to prevent the Gloria Fire from entering park land. Pinnacles reminds visitors that all fires are currently prohibited in the park except for the use of gas stoves in designated areas.

The park's west side and all backcountry trails were closed Friday, August 28, to regular staff and all visitors due to the proximity and potential danger of the Gloria Fire burning into the park's west side. The park encourages visitors to the west side of the park to use additional caution while on HWY 146 between Soledad and the park as PG&E crews, fire personnel, and equipment that will continue to be working in the area.

For information specifically on the Gloria Fire, please call CalFire at 831-647-6257 or visit their web site.

General park information can be obtained by visiting the Park's Web site or by calling 831-389-4485.