The Pinnacles, Coromandel Forest Park

The Pinnacles are a striking cluster of jagged rock formations rising above Coromandel Forest Park on New Zealand’s North Island. This amazing gem is only accessible with a hike that climbs through native forest and historic kauri logging routes before opening to exposed rocky terrain near the summit. From the top, photographers are rewarded with wide views across the Coromandel Peninsula and out toward the Pacific Ocean on clear days. The rocky summit provides strong foreground interest, especially at sunrise when low light adds depth and shadow to the formations. The track is typically completed as a long day hike or overnight stay at Pinnacles Hut, with access from the Kauaeranga Valley near Thames. (Coromandel Forest Park, North Island, New Zealand)