Gillem Bluff Trail

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The trail is really rocky, especially as it begins to climb up the bluff. It's important to watch your step to make sure you don't twist your ankle or fall.

The trailhead is located near the north entrance station to the park at the parking loop for Gillems Camp and Gillems Camp Trail

Initially, the trail heads north over relatively flat terrain and passes near some of the more significant structures that once constituted Gillems Camp. A little past the foundations of a circular corral that was once used to hold a Modoc prisoner, the trail makes a wide turn west and then south, where it begins its steep ascent to the top of Gillem Bluff. Off to the left-hand side of the trail, views of the National Monument begin to open up as you climb the hill. On the right-hand side of the trail, the rock-lined summit of the bluffs towers above you. Along the trail, you may encounter quail, coyotes, or deer as you make your way up the trail, which the animals use to reach the summit. The trail ends at the top of Gillem Bluff where commanding views of Gillems Camp, lava flows, and wilderness are abundant. There are poles in the ground which indicate the monument's boundary lines.

Gillem Bluff is a major fault in the earth's crust. Its ridge was created when a black of the earth's crust dropped down along the fault. The tuff layer on top of Gillem Bluff is 2 million years old, inferring the layers underneath are much older.

Deer, coyotes, quail, and turkey vultures can be seen along the trail, especially as it climbs away from the road.