Burro Schmidt's Tunnel is a 10.5 mile lightly trafficked point-to-point trail located near Cantil, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
dogs on leash
birding
hiking
nature trips
off road driving
walking
views
wild flowers
rocky
no shade
Completed this in a FWD crv. Fun ride out lots of great scenery.
Been here twice, the first time from highway 14 and the other from the 395. The route from the 395 was much more intensive than from the 14, but made it up in a stock '03 RWD 4Runner. I would recommend 4x4 or at least a locking rear diff if coming from the 395. Your mom's Camry won't make it either way.
The tunnel itself is pretty bizarre, definitely worth seeing. Bring a flashlight, as it gets pitch dark in there.
Ok so this trail needs a real review as the skill level needed for this if driving a vehicle is seriously lacking. If trying to complete this in a 4x4 you will not make it. Part of it is closed to motorized vehicles from mile marker 6-8. The other issue is the amount of soft sand will be a real issue. Make sure you travel with another vehicle this is not a solo route. I would only recommend an OHV for this trail because on the return the route is very narrow with steep inclines that would challenge even a motorbike.
For the hiker this trail is very nice as it gradually increases in elevation gain. At mile 7 the incline rises very quickly and drops quickly presenting lots of PUDs (pointless ups and downs) until the end.
Lastly start this early or late do not attempt from 11-4 as this is a very hot trail with no shade no water. I even recommend 4 liters of water at a minimum.
I got off the trail early due to an injury.
Beautiful and desolate. Bring a map--it's easy to wander off trail by following the wash or other lost hikers attempting to find the tunnel. Trail branches off into several other trails in a dozen places. There are now fences and signs blocking this trail in some parts. Flat in the beginning, but there's some pretty consistent hills and valleys on the way back. Once we found the way back, trail was clearly marked.
The tunnel was pretty cool--amazing how one person with limited tools accomplished all that. A lot of people rode ATVs or 4WDs to the tunnel, so it got a little crowded there.
Fun tunnel but a bit too short. Hit my head and fell a few times as I'm a tall guy. The view at the end when you exit is truly amazing. Probably best to come here with an ATV or OHV.
I hiked from last chance canyon to the tunnel. Lots of hills. Lots of jeeps. Very exciting. The tunnel was shorter than I thought but still a tremendous feat for one man. Very jeep friendly area next time I will bring one.