Planet of the Apes Location... (image)

[ Follow Ups ] [ Death Valley Talk - Archive Set 1 ] [ FAQ ]

Posted by Last Chance Rand on July 30, 2001 at 12:36:09:

In Reply to: Planet of the Apes posted by Paul on July 30, 2001 at 11:00:05:

Hi MENDO PAUL -

The key shots were filmed at the Trona Pinnacles, a BLM-administered National Landmark, which indeed is very close to DVNP's southwest border. The turnoff is located approximately two miles south of South Trona off Hwy 178, and the Pinnacles are located seven miles south on a well maintained dirt road -- you can easily see them from the highway looming in the distance.

Similar to Mono Lakes tufa spires, the Pinnacles, which number more than 100, are what remains from once-underwater springs in the ancient Searles Lake.

I understand that getting BLM to grant the permit for such a massive undertaking was not easy. The film crew was there for three months or more early this year and concerns for resource damage were obvious. However, in my drive through the Pinnacles earlier this month found it in the best condition I've ever seen. There was no trash, inappropriate routes were "rocked" off-limits, and the ground itself showed no signs of the film crew, that I could see. My hats off to both BLM and the film crew!

Follow Ups: