Comparisons

Question
What are the differences between Yosemite, Sierras, and Pinnacles National Monument?

Answer
Dear Bob,

  I'll be brief in answering your question and just touch upon the major differences between these areas.  Yosemite Valley's granite cliffs are like no others in my experience.  They were cleaned and polished by glacial ice during at least two major periods of glaciation.  There are very few conventional climbing holds on these cliffs.  Climbs are accomplished by friction/small-hold techniques or crack-climbing techniques.  Proficiency in both regimens is a must for both safety and enjoyment of Valley climbs.  
  High Sierra granite may have been glaciated, but it is much rougher than Yosemite Valley granite.  Large embedded crystals may allow exciting  high-angle face climbing on some routes.  Cracks are usually abundant so natural protection is almost always available.  Altitude (summits from 11,000 to 14,000+ feet), long approaches, weather, ice and snow also add alpine factors to rock climbs.  
  Pinnacles National Monument is found in the coastal mountains (Gabilan Range) of Central California.  The rock spires are composed of eroded breccia formed in an ancient volcano.  Breccia is comprised of hard chunks in a softer matrix rock and can be solid or terribly rotten, often within inches. There are almost no cracks at Pinnacles.  Protection and anchors are bolts, mostly modern.  I love the place, but you should take care and learn the idiosyncrasies of the rock before you venture on anything near or above your grade.  Runouts are long and holds do break.  
That's the short answer.  Let me know if you have further questions or wish more details.
Bob Walton