Mile 302 Report
Oswald West SP, Neahkahnie Mountain, Devils Cauldron
October 9, 2009
Except for the folks who visit the cauldron by car via the parking lot on 101, the trail between this point and Short Sands appears to be lightly used.
Report Details
Except for the folks who visit the cauldron by car via the parking lot on 101, the trail between this point and Short Sands appears to be lightly used. I spotted four hikers total on my trip down and back. I would have expected to see a lot more in the way of seabirds or sea lions, but the whole mile was pretty well devoid of wildlife. I spotted two garter snakes on the trail and one rather curious mole, who simply sat in the middle of the trail as the hikers all tip-toed past him. Sick perhaps?
Conditions
Temperature: 56 F. Cloud Cover: Sunny. Wind Velocity: Moderate. Wind Direction: N. Tide Level: 0.1 feet.
Human Activities
Number of people: 5. Number of dogs: 1. Walking or running: 3. Sitting: 2. A few people were sitting past the fenced off area on the overlook point to Devils Cauldron.
Concerns
Apparent violations: None.
Vehicles
Cars/trucks parking: 6.
Notable Wildlife
With binoculars, I spotted a single gull preening atop the ocean-bound rock. Judging by the white surface of the rock, I would have expected many more seabirds, but perhaps it was just the time of day. A single cormorant was spotted diving in the water in the bowl of the cauldron. Two groups of pelicans flew by, heading north.
Man-made Modifications
none
Natural Changes
looks like a landslide may be in the forming stage in the sand above the cauldron rock. I can spot a faultline within the beachgrass, but I don't know how long it's been there.
Report Images
beachmike
CoastWatcher
All Mile 302 Reports
Mile 302
Oswald West SP, Neahkahnie Mountain, Devils Cauldron
THREE TEENAGERS WERE SHOOTING AT THE BIRDS OFF THE CLIFFS WITH BB/PELLET GUN (w/a scope on top).
Lisa Marie
Mile 302
Oswald West SP, Neahkahnie Mountain, Devils Cauldron
Except for the folks who visit the cauldron by car via the parking lot on 101, the trail between this point and Short Sands appears to be lightly used.
beachmike