Cambalache State Forest Radio Tower Road

The old service road to Cambalache’s radio tower cuts through 1,000 acres of the island’s most unique dry forest ecosystem, where centuries of limestone erosion created a moonscape of sinkholes and underground rivers. The rutted track climbs 800 feet through mogote hills and past Cueva de los Murciélagos before reaching the abandoned tower complex that once served as a Hurricane Hugo evacuation center. Locals still call it “La Torre del Diablo” after the eerie radio static that echoed through the forest for decades.

This is moderate terrain requiring high-clearance 4WD and skid plates — sharp limestone will punish anything less. The 6-mile route is best tackled in dry season (December-April) when the clay doesn’t turn into axle-deep gumbo. No permits needed, but bring your own water since the forest lacks reliable sources. You’ll earn solitude in one of Puerto Rico’s least-visited state forests, plus stellar views of the northern coast from the tower ruins.