About
Length (round trip)5 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyStrenuous
Typical time2 hr 30 min
TrailheadCuyler Harbor, San Miguel Island
SurfaceSand and open island slopes
Best seasonYear round. Spring for wildflowers, summer and autumn for the calmest boat crossings, winter for whales.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see 🌄 Big views

The caliche forest is a naturally occurring geologic feature consisting of prehistoric vegetation that has calcified, forming a "fossilized" landscape. Due to unexploded ordnance, visitors must be accompanied by a ranger to this location. Entering this area without a ranger is a violation of federal law. Distance: 5 miles (round trip from Cuyler Harbor) Difficulty: Strenuous San Miguel Island is owned by the US Navy and is open only when National Park Service personnel are on the island. A permit (including liability waiver) is required to visit the island. These forms are available at Island Packers and Channel Islands Aviation. Private boaters can obtain the forms at a self-registration station at the Nidever Canyon trail head entry on San Miguel Island. It is the responsibility of private boaters to contact the park to ensure the island is open before coming ashore. Visitors are required to stay on the designated island trail system. No off-trail hiking is permitted. The island was a former bombing range and there are possible unexploded ordnance. In addition, visitors must be accompanied by a ranger beyond the ranger station. When not accompanied by a ranger, visitors may explore Cuyler Harbor beach, Nidever Canyon, the Cabrillo Monument, and the Lester Ranch site.

Tips
The caliche "trees" are sand castings around long-dead plants - unique in the park. Ranger-accompanied beyond the ranger station.
Location

Cuyler Harbor, San Miguel Island

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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