When you get to the end you end at a residential neighborhood/road. I cant really say how this trail is since there is not enough parking, so we couldnt stay to take the trail. Were beginning sea kayakers who are reasonably fit, and we kayaked at about 3 miles per hour against current. She believed that? I laugh. Was dropped off at Prisoner's Harbor, spent the night at Del Norte Campground, then hiked to Scorpion's Anchorage and spent the night at Scorpion Campground, getting picked up the following day. I should have believed her; but, so often, its impossible to adopt the faith that others have in us for ourselves. Scorpion Anchorage is a better option for a day trip because it is closer and has more short hiking trails that you can do in one day as well as kayak and snorkeling tours. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 21 min to complete. The maximum number of people that can camp at Scorpion Anchorage is 30. The down hill after the highest point definitely does a number on your toes. To get to Prisoners Harbor, take the Island Packers Ferry. Weather conditions can change rapidly, it is best to bring layers and a jacket regardless of the time of year. You will need to bring sunscreen hats sunglasses water snacks and a first aid kit when you kayak from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage. It is possible to kayak from Prisoner's Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage but it is a long and challenging journey. El Montanon Peak (1,808') . Everyone looks defeated and nervous, and Sam has a look on her face like she thought she was standing in line for a whale-watching tour on a cruise ship only to discover that she was actually in a line to be drafted to the Olympic rowing team. You can spend the night at Del Norte, then hike to Scorpion Campground for another night. Would recommend going from the peak to potato harbor then to scorpion! In the morning, were furiously loading our kayaks on the beach at around 7 AM (only an hour late!). Other than that beautiful views. Thats less than a mile NW of Scorpion and visible from the mainland on a clear day. You'll need to leave pups at home dogs aren't allowed on this trail. Prisoners Harbor is more secluded in comparison to Scorpion Anchorage offering a completely different experience for Channel Islands National Park guests. ROUTE: Strong winds start blowing southeast at around 11 AM on the north side of the island, so leave for any long kayaking trip early in the morning. We were blessed with clear skies, mid 60 degree temps, and no wind which made for a perfect hiking day. Bring plenty of water since theres no water source past Scorpions. The Channel Islands are home to over 2,000 plant and animal species, of which 145 are found nowhere else in the world. The captain will point out animals that they spot and slow down the boat so everyone can see. The other three islands are a 3-4 hour boat ride away, which makes it difficult to visit on a day trip unless you are willing to spend a lot of money on a flight with Channel Islands Aviation. Stayed the night at Del Norte and hiked about 11 miles to scorpion camp grounds. This was a fun run. Great for sea cave kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and camping! There are two campgrounds, one at Scorpion Anchorage and another near Prisoners Harbor. There is potable water, pit toilets, picnic tables, and food storage bins at this campground. Re: Santa Cruz: Prisoner Harbor or Scorpion Anchorage 8 years ago This post has been removed at the author's request. The evening Autumn fog though was beautiful. The boat ride is part of the experience of the day trip to the Channel Islands, as you can see many different birds and animals on the way. A little bit of tidal rush, a biggish wave, maybe just the wake off a tourist boat can ram you into the ceiling. Sites 1/2 have absolutely stunning views of the ocean. You would need to contact Island Packers ahead of time to make sure they have space to transport the Kayak. The beach comprises fairly large rocks, so water shoes or sandals are essential. love this trial, short n sweet with great scenery. Your email address will not be published. Note: Giant Kelp, which has been in decline for more than a decade is making a comeback. The mixed sand and cobblestone Scorpion Beach is a world-class destination because of easy beach access, clear ocean waters, a spectacular shoreline with sea caves to explore, nearby camping, numerous trails, and year-round Island Packers boat transportation. Your email address will not be published. One of the best things to do in Santa Cruz Island is to hike to Potato Harbor Overlook where you can see a beautiful view of the clear blue water below. this was very difficult because of the climbing uphills. We ended up leaving 2.5 liters (total) at the campground (there's an emergency stash there but I wouldn't rely on it), and carrying 3 liters each (6 liters total) from Del Norte to Scorpion Anchorage. Highly recommend. There is potable water on Santa Cruz Island in the Scorpion campground where you can refill your water bottle. It took about 1.5 hours to finally get on the trail and hiking from the time we left. The other 76 percent is owned by The Nature Conservancy. And, look, Lisa and Natalie seem to have recovered enough that they wanted more. Privately, though, I wondered whether Im only capable of planning outdoor adventure trips that scar people for life. I saw one group of 4 people near the campground but didn't see anyone else until I was 1 1/2 miles from Scorpion Cove. I did this going the other direction, from Scorpion to Prisoners. We stop to watch a large group of sea lions playing in the water, one of whom comes a couple feet from our boat to investigate. Del Norte and Scorpion Campground via Del Norte and Montaon Trail, https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/backcountry-beach-camping-on-santa-cruz-island.htm. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. I added China Pines Road to the hike which provides some great views, but the trail is completely overgrown in 1/3 to 1/2 of it. anchorage and it can be difficult to get close enough to the shore to get out of the westerly wind. We traveled during labor day weekend. Once youre oriented, shape a course slightly to the east of the point. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. There were lots of wildflowers and opportunities to see wildlife like birds, butterflies, small rodents, and even the Santa Cruz fox. Will come back when it's warmer to go in the river and cross it. Gain and loss of elevation throughout the trail. It is very deep in the center of the bight, which makes anchoring bow and stern problematical. By the time we reach the campground on a plateau, Sam looks like shes ready to vomit, and Natalie and Norberto look wiped. Visitor Center A visitor center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house. Stayed at Del Norte and hiked to scorpion lower loop for our next camp site. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Those who are up for the challenge will be rewarded with some of the most stunning scenery in the Channel Islands. Only negative is that people dont pick up after their dogs. This hike would be the best in the spring when Santa Cruz Island has more foliage since it is mostly internal through the canyon. Every landmark had personality, every direction I looked was art. Lots of people have needed to be rescued trying to kayak from Scorpion to Prisoners because the winds against you, the employee said. End your day trip to Santa Cruz Island with a nice boat ride back to Ventura. Beautiful, serene hike! Great views. This trail is great for backpacking, birding, and camping, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Dont miss the Blue Grotto sometimes called Emerald Cave, which is accessed on the east side of Bird Sh**t rock. LOGISTICS: Boats run by Island Packers leave from Ventura daily to Scorpion Anchorage and daily except Wednesdays to Prisoners Harbor. It is very well maintained; truly a moderate level of exertion for this trail.. At this point we were in danger of being blown into the rocks to the east. Scorpion Cove vs. Smugglers Road, Scorpion Canyon and Potato Harbor, Ford Point via East Point Trail and South Road, Torrey Pines via East Point and Torrey Pines Trail, Mount Pleasant via Del Norte and Navy Road Loop. After just over a mile of hiking, a trail to Del Norte campground breaks off from this road, which is only 3.5 miles from Prisoner's. There is no water at Del Norte campground. Scorpion Anchorage - remain clear of the buoys. Scorpion Anchorage to Prisoner's Harbor on Santa Cruz Island - Backpacking Made possible by Photos About Review Comments Location Starting at Scorpion Anchorage, and then heading up and over a mountain pass, this two-day point-to-point trip shows you an entirely new side of California backcountry. Channel Islands National Park is located off the coast of California and is made up of five islands: Anacapa Island, Santa Cruz Island, Santa Rosa Island, San Miguel Island, and Santa Barbra Island. Worth the trip. After getting dropped off at Prisoner's Harbor, you'll spend your first night at Del Norte Campground. Weather was nice although a little warm in the sun. Before planning any of these activities consult the national park service and tour company websites for restrictions, schedules, hazards, packing, and important information. We crossed the water and we had a snack and back home. Island Packers operates trips to Santa Cruz Island 5-7 days a week, year round. We return to the campground to find the less-experienced paddlers, Suzanne, Lisa, Sam, and Whitney, already there. The trip is about 12 miles each way and [] Learn about the local history of the island while kayaking with a friendly guide and have a wonderful opportunity to see wildlife such as Garibaldi fish, brown pelicans, seals, sea lions, and even a bald eagle! Report inappropriate content 2. The boat ride with island Packers was very nice comfortable with bathrooms and bar with smacks. Many of the plants had dried up during the summer so the island wasnt very green in September. As were only two or three boat lengths from a lee shore, we are skittish about taking the whole family ashore. From Scorpion Anchorage hikers can venture out to Smugglers Cove Beach and Potato Harbor Overlook (no beach access). Great views of the ocean and cliffs. If I did it again the only thing I would change is to bring gaiters. We will just be going for the day and I'm trying to figure out which part of the island is the best to go to. Weather conditions can change rapidly, it is best to bring layers and a jacket regardless of the time of year. Loved the sound of water all along the trail. I couldnt have done this trip without my hiking sticks! I took extra care to make sure the adventures logistics were carefully planned and our itinerary allowed the four less experienced kayakers to shirk some paddling miles and still complete the trip. About 6.5 miles in you start a scramble of sorts up a steep trail leading you up to the ridge overlooking Scorpion. All pier landings involve climbing a ladder between 1 and 6 rungs. Required fields are marked *. From June to September Channel Islands Adventure Company also offers guided snorkeling tours on Saturdays and Sundays. The weather in Prisoners Harbor is usually sunny and warm. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'californiabeaches_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',672,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-californiabeaches_com-medrectangle-4-0');Santa Cruz Island is the largest and tallest of the islands in Channel Islands National Park. Its now a significant obstruction. If youre north of the anchorage, locate the steep cliffs of Cavern Point. Soon, were all drinking fantastic lemon craft cocktails and eating bacon-topped pasta primavera as a deep red-orange sunset dazzles us on the horizon. Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor are the two most popular destinations that the Island Packers stops at. Boats to Prisoner's Harbor, the mid-Santa Cruz Island landing, are not scheduled as frequently as to the more popular Scorpion Anchorage, but for those seeking solitude, it's worth the effort. On the boat to Santa Cruz Island, the nine of us discussed our past outdoors trips, and Lisa reminisced about the Mount Whitney summit trip she completed with me, Rich, and Wendy. The name of the island that Scorpion Anchorage is located on is Santa Cruz Island. It can get very crowded here, particularly when kids are on summer vacation. Are we going to die? Sam asked. Nevertheless, take time to observe the swell and surge before you make a decision about entering. Everything will be fine., So, instead of paddling out from Malibus Point Dume into the ocean in the middle of the night with weights tied to my legs and jumping in, I sent an email, in the least alarming tone I could muster, that everyone needed to pack as little as possible due to the lack of kayak storage space. You will see the museum ahead of you and a small sign on the right that says Cavern Pt Loop Trail. The high winds almost drove us insane, and the water carry sucks, but overall very worth it. Nothing that you cant see. There was a sign that said trails closed ahead so we did not end up hiking here today. The Island Fox can be spotted at both locations along with the Island Scrub-Jay. It is unclear how Scorpion was named; it may be the shape of the valley or the fact that there are small scorpions present. Channel Islands National Park is comprised of 5 islands. But its our fault for bringing so much stuff, eternally-upbeat Natalie says with a smile. My dogs especially loved this trail. beautiful trail . To get back, head town the trail on the right (Potato Harbor Road). Great trail with the sound of running water the whole way. Channel Islands National Park is open year round. Bring lots of water and wear comfortable shoes. There are no other visitor centers on the island. They explain that the wind forced them to turn back after only a half-mile. The area around the high mount is technical but didn't feel dangerous. I have at least another hour in me! 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