Potable water available at Scorpian Anchorage but none at Del Norte so plan accordingly! If you are prone to sea sickness or arent sure, I highly recommend taking sea sickness medication like Dramamine at least 30 minutes before the boat ride. Prisoner's Harbor is one of the main anchorages in Channel Islands National Park and the closest to Santa Cruz Island making it a popular destination for kayakers. Travel time to Scorpion is a little over an hour and Prisoners Harbor, on direct route is about one and a half hours. Beautiful regardless of the gales. It runs right into the day anchorage. The ferry takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to cross the channel. Shes right, of course, and I realize her oft-repeated confidence in my trip planning was never just platitudinous she genuinely believed it. From Scorpion Anchorage hikers can venture out to Smugglers Cove Beach and Potato Harbor Overlook (no beach access). Weather conditions can change rapidly, it is best to bring layers and a jacket regardless of the time of year. I told you that you could do it! I yell. The trail was super straightforward and spot on with AllTrails. The evening Autumn fog though was beautiful. From Los Angeles to Ventura Harbor, its about a 60-70 mile drive depending on where in LA you are coming from. Lots of people have needed to be rescued trying to kayak from Scorpion to Prisoners because the winds against you, the employee said. It is a little easier at some points, but I'd say just as steep and even boring after a while being more inland and on a dirt road. I brought about 5 liters of water in the springtime and was enough for me until I reached Scorpions where there was potable water. Painted Cave, further west, is far more vast, but the caves near Scorpion are easily accessible and require no spelunking gear. It definitely seems worth it to spend time exploring the nearby sea caves. Scorpion Anchorage is just an 18-mile ride off the coast of Ventura County on the 96-square-mile island of Santa Cruz. 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. Prisoners Harbor is our newest location and will be open during the construction at Scorpion Anchorage. From Scorpion Anchorage hikers can venture out to Smugglers Cove Beach and Potato Harbor Overlook (no beach access). But at scorpion is so windy. From June to September Channel Islands Adventure Company also offers guided snorkeling tours on Saturdays and Sundays. Lots of shade. You should book your trip ahead of time on the Island Packers websitebecause boats do fill up. I have been here before and come back today, it looks like this trail route has been edited, it used to direct you to cross a stream and reaches the other parking lot but now this trail on the app took me to the end which is on top of This is off the trail a considerable distance. Weve put together an easy guide to help plan your trip to Channel Islands National Park. We are looking for a full day of hiking and scenic views. The Channel Islands are home to over 2,000 plant and animal species, of which 145 are found nowhere else in the world. Also, as the reviewer below me noted, do not follow the google maps instructions from this page- it takes you somewhere on the Barona reservation. Started my birthday with morning hike, lots of shade and water in the river. Note that the Centers kayaks do not have cargo space inside the kayaks (though there is ample space for backpacks on top of the kayaks even with two people), and they prefer that people dont leave Scorpion Anchorage with their kayaks. Great hike. The weather in Prisoners Harbor is usually sunny and warm. They will get into your shoes and pants. I should have believed her; but, so often, its impossible to adopt the faith that others have in us for ourselves. Watch out for poison oak!! No need to cross the road to start on the other side. We didnt do the whole thing this is definitely longer than 3.6 miles. Travel guides created to inspire and enable people to use their time away from the office to explore the world. Along the way kayakers will pass by sea caves rocky reefs and kelp forests. Nice Hike overall. It's a 1-mile climb to captivating Cavern Point. Theres not really an end point - this trail kind of ends abruptly and there are other trails that continue. The bottom is mostly sand, though we have encountered some eel grass. Come prepared to pack out all your trash. Heading off on a close reach almost always gets us to the vicinity of Cavern Point. The main challenge of this hike is the lack of water along the way. The campground was amazing and clean. parts of the trail were moist due to the mist. 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. The trail begins on a fire road leaving Prisoner's Harbor and rises above sea level, overlooking the northern coast of the island. You will find many unique sea caves near Scorpion Anchorage, making Santa Cruz Island a unique place to kayak. It must not have even occurred to her that we were kayaking the full nine miles to the other legal campground.. The wind over the course of the day will frequently vary between nadaand 20 knots. He was trotting down the trail in my direction and then veered off towards the river. Want to report conditions for this trail? There are a lot of trees along the trail. A day trip to Channel Islands National Park is not complete without visiting Potato Harbor Overlook. Totally doable in that time period if the math works for your pace. Whitney has a smile on his face and though Sam, Lisa and Suzanne look very relieved theyre done, they dont seem permanently scarred. I really liked it. Ventura, CA is only 1.5 hours from Los Angeles, CA and 30 minutes from Santa Barbara, CA. The beach comprises fairly large rocks, so water shoes or sandals are essential. Weve strapped so much trash-bag protected stuff to the top of the boats that Rich and Wendys kayak looks like a makeshift garbage barge, and Natalie and Norbertos kayak looks like its been loaded up with every belonging theyve owned since childhood. Then, unable to remain totally calm, I sent another, more dramatic e-mail: Please remember that this will be an adventure, and things may not go exactly as planned, but at least we have each other.. Potato Harbor hike. Little Scorpion is a fraction of a mile east. Scorpion Anchorage on NPS property, lies on the east end of the island, and Prisoners Harbor to the west, at the border of National Park and The Nature Conservancy property. We loved it! Hi- I will be visiting with 3 friends over Memorial Day weekend. If you arrive to Scorpion Anchorage I recommend hiking at least the blue loop above. There's a trip to Santa Rosa or a trip to Prisoners Harbor at Santa Cruz available with Island Packers. Park day fee is $3 to park. Thank God for his help. No water along trail. 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. Views don't get much better than from this windy spot. There are no options for food or water to purchase once on the island. We saw only 2 other people the whole time we were on the trail and there were lots of animal tracks and scat. Remember to carry plenty of water! 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. All in all its a pleasant hike to do with family. Prisoners Harbor Landings are at a pier. Were already here? Renske asks. Channel Islands Adventure Company runs guided kayak tours at three locations: Scorpion Anchorage, Prisoners Harbor, and Painted Cave. Matt. 2023 Channel Island Adventure Co. Privacy | Terms. I logged the mileage as 13.1 but I did do a little offshoot to El Montanon peak. Scorpion Anchorage is the most visited destination in the park, with over 55,000 people coming ashore each year to enjoy recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, camping, kayaking, and swimming. Bring lots of sunscreen and a camera to capture the beautiful views :]. They explain that the wind forced them to turn back after only a half-mile. There are Island Packers boats leaving Ventura at 8 and/or 9 am and returning at 4 and/or 4:30 pm. I planned this trip to be much easier than either of those, I said, trying to keep everyone relaxed. When climbing near the peak there is a lot of loose rocks and steep climbing. This is a very pretty trail with easy to moderate gains in a few areas; however, a great deal of the trail is flat. And the hardest thing Ive ever done in my life. She sounded emotionally scarred. Good mix of elevation gains and flatter walks. Definitely recommend trekking poles because there comes a point where it gets really rocky and steep. Exposed. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. If you are camping, get reservations well ahead of your trip. Very good trail, good weather. Some of the tracks looked like mountain lion tracks. 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! The most difficult and exposed portion of the trail is about 4 miles in from the scorpion side. 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. Both 60- and 90-minute boat rides can be booked from both Ventura and Oxnard Harbors. AUGUST 10, 2015 My Dutch friend Renske and I are sitting in a kayak, paddling as hard as we can, against a strong current around a rocky outcrop of Santa Cruz Island in the Channel Islands off the coast of California. Beautiful hike and super green right now with the recent rains! So, you must pack all your water. anchorage and it can be difficult to get close enough to the shore to get out of the westerly wind. There are only four sites there are the view was spectacular. The Prisoner's Harbor area is part of The Nature Conservancy section of the island. Strava clocked me at 13.5 miles and 2,800 feet of elevation gain. They have a small store located about a 10 minute walk from the pier, past the restrooms and museum. A day trip to Channel Islands National Park, Santa Cruz Island, is a perfect way to spend a vacation day. Scorpion in foreground, Little Scorpion in the distance. Big coyote sighting 12/24/22. Stay tuned to our Facebook and Instagram for updates on available dates. Boat to Catalina Island for a day trip! Hike Profile Distance: 8.20 miles Elevation Gain: 1526 ft Minimum Elevation: 41 ft Maximum Elevation: 800 ft Time: 4-6 hour Difficulty: (2/5) Dog Friendly: No Permit Required: No Weather: The weather on the Channel Islands is pleasant, but can also be very unpredictable at times. The other is Prisoners Harbor near the Conservancy border. The best way to see the highlights of Colorado is, Napa Valley offers the perfect weekend getaway to relax, drink wine, eat great food and enjoy beautiful views. 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. A good part of this trail is overgrown with wild grass whose pointy seeds will get into your hiking boots - gators strongly recommended. To get back, head town the trail on the right (Potato Harbor Road). If you drop your boat in the water when the sun just peaks over Anacapa, youll likely find glass-smooth waters and excellent visibility. I have at least another hour in me! After about 30 minutes, the rest of the group joins us on the beach. Island Packers operates trips to Santa Cruz Island 5-7 days a week, year round. Completed this trail 4/16/21. Approaching the ridge was probably the most difficult and treacherous part for someone backpacking (~0.2 miles) with steep cliffs, rocky, unstable trail. Make sure to book your campsites (NPS.gov) and boat ride (Islands Packers) ahead of time. The transportation to Santa Cruz Island is with Island Packers and goes out of Ventura Harbor. Unfortunately, I didn't see any wildlife yesterday. The hike from del Norte camp to scorpion campground with lunch was a 6-hour day - after montaon ridge we took the potato harbor route instead of following the road to the pier. . ! Whitney yells excitedly as he and Sam paddle into shore. Disembarked ferry at Prisoners at 1115a and started straightaway. It's expected to take six to eight months. Ken Lund About Summary Scorpion in foreground, Little Scorpion in the distance. 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. Over all worth it would not recommend kayaking after this hike. A few short scrambles over rocks and two small streams to jump. No water at Del Norte. You'll wish you hadn't left your canteen on the boat. The first fire started on the flat about half way between Pelican Bay and Prisoners' Harbor and about half way between the ocean and the top of the ridge. Add Your Recommended Routes RECOMMENDED ROUTE Difficult Santa Cruz Traverse 13.4 mi 2,573' Up 2,568' Down Anacapa, CA RECOMMENDED ROUTE Intermediate Potato Harbor Loop 5.0 mi 511' Up 510' Down Santa C, CA Santa Cruz Island Hiking 67 Miles of Trail Accidentally took Navy road up to Del Norte from Prisoners harbor definitely a strenuous hike with beautiful views. Started at Prisoners and hiked to Del Norte Camp, stayed the night. Great for sea cave kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and camping! Dry and a lot of switch backs. This loop trail leaves from the eastern harbor, Scorpion Anchorage (as opposed to Mid Santa Cruz, or Prisoner's Harbor). Are we going to die? Sam asked. Thought it was a German shepherd at first. You can guys can do it, I say. Such a beautiful hike! It's a spectacular hike, and we didn't see a single person on the trail once we left the campground. Scorpion, the gateway to the islands activities, is open once again and the pier is available to Island Packers, NPS and other government boats. Flights are extremely expensive, and most of us dont have a private boat, so the best option is to book a trip with Island Packers. A quiet, peaceful, beautifully green trail in February. View the route below or download the Without Baggage Catalina Island Kayak GPS track in GPX or KML format. Absolutely gorgeous. The trail is fairly marked well however there are some spots where the trail narrows considerably and can be difficult footing for some. Pass that point is an easy 4 mile stride downhill to the scorpion campground. Use caution during this section. The trip is about 12 miles each way and kayakers must contend with strong tides and currents as well as wind and waves. The down hill after the highest point definitely does a number on your toes. For access to Santa Cruz Island inquire with Island Packers Cruises. Scorpion Anchorage is the best area of the Channel Islands National Park to kayak. Bring plenty of water since theres no water source past Scorpions. Worth the trip. Once on the boat, there are two main drop off points on Santa Cruz Island, Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor. But, after a lasagna dinner, I announce that we should aim to be on the water in the morning by 6 AM. The best way to explore this part of the United, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a beautiful reserve with nice hiking trails, beautiful coves, relaxing beaches, and diverse plant and animal species. LOGISTICS: Boats run by Island Packers leave from Ventura daily to Scorpion Anchorage and daily except Wednesdays to Prisoners Harbor. There is potable water on Santa Cruz Island in the Scorpion campground where you can refill your water bottle. Address 1691 Spinaker Dr Ventura, CA 93001 Phone (805) 658-5730 Park Name Channel Islands National Park Owner National Park Activities Hiking, Birdwatching, Camping, Kayaking, Swimming, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Backpacking Amenities Trails, Restrooms, Pier Pet Policy Pets are not allowed on the island Fees Fee for boat trip, camping Hotels The captain will point out animals that they spot and slow down the boat so everyone can see. Landed at Scorpion, hiked to Del Norte Campground to stay the night. We started at Prisoners and camped at Del Norte backcountry campsite. The name of the island that Prisoners Harbor is located on is Santa Cruz Island. We got there about 30 minutes before and still had plenty of time to check in and wait before boarding the boat. The campground is great. Then, when I called five different kayak-rental outfits in Southern California to find different kayaks with hull storage space, none had enough on hand. However kayaking can [], Perhaps youve seen ocean kayaks paddling along the coast and thought to yourself Those look like a lot of fun. Filtered water is available at Scorpion Anchorage, but no water is available at Prisoner's Harbor or Del Norte, so be sure to bring your own. Additionally, if you leave the shelter of the anchorage, be aware of the afternoon westerlies, particularly in summer, which can make paddling back to your boat extremely difficult. We motor across Chinese Harbor to Prisoners, staying on or outside the 20 fathom curve if we can't see shore, which keeps us clear of all obstructions. Theres no way were all going to make it to Prisoners Harbor.. Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor are the two most popular destinations that the Island Packers stops at. Your adventure begins on the Island Packers ferry where hopefully youll spot a pod of dolphins during your journey or even whales. 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. We were heading across nearly 22 miles of the Pacific toward Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island. 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. On day 2, hike to Scorpion Anchorage and spend another night. On the southwest corner of the campground you will see the Scorpion Canyon Loop trail. You will see the museum ahead of you and a small sign on the right that says Cavern Pt Loop Trail. My. Stunning day, dappled sunlight, running river, not too crowded once you get past the first mile or so. We generally anchor bow and stern to prevent swinging. On the way down the trail, near the campground, we saw a few island foxes. But alas, Bird Shit has won in 2021. Visitor Center A visitor center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house. Couldnt cross the creek, but still really nice out. You would need to contact Island Packers ahead of time to make sure they have space to transport the Kayak. Try this 20.1-km point-to-point trail near Santa Barbara, California. 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. The loop visits two of the most famous points on the eastern section of the island, Cavern Point and Potato Harbor. Once you get to the campground if you have more time you should continue to Scorpion Canyon. this was very difficult because of the climbing uphills. Also some cactus near the trail were I was scrambling at one point and I was unstable due to tired legs. 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. Booking.com is a great site to search accommodation near Ventura Harbor. She believed that? I laugh. If you miss it youre stuck overnight. Definitely 13.3-13.5 mi, not 12.5. We also hiked the Navy Road portion of this trail to Del Norte, which many will tell you is "easier" to take on the way back in terms of steepness. The Park Service planted the rock a few years back and, though they didnt expect their efforts to cover the islet, they were probably ecstatic at the success theyd achieved. Thats less than a mile NW of Scorpion and visible from the mainland on a clear day. When most people think of kayaking they imagine themselves paddling peacefully down a river on a hot summer day. Snorkel with the diverse sea creatures of the kelp forest or take a kayak tour through the sea caves with Santa Barbara Adventure Company. The goal was to reach the peak but after 1/4 mile I decided to turn back because the path is precarious and I was alone. I wonder [], Kayaks are incredibly stable and safe boats and most people will never capsize or flip their kayak. As you continue hiking the trail there will be more breathtaking views of the large cliffs and you will also be able to spot sea caves. []. If you dont mind spending more money, I recommend doing the Adventure Sea Cave Kayak Tour (2.5-3 hours) and then hiking the recommended path below along the coast to Cavern Point and continuing to Potato Harbor. Scorpion Anchorage is our MOST POPULAR year round sea cave kayaking tour. Be sure to pack food and water for your time on the island. 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. Are you looking for another island adventure? I dont think we can do this!. About 6.5 miles in you start a scramble of sorts up a steep trail leading you up to the ridge overlooking Scorpion. Nothing that you cant see. My husband and I took our 9 year old son and he enjoyed it so much. Yes there are other kayakers that you can kayak with from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage. Other than that beautiful views. Find the great white beacon of Bird Shit Rock. When we went, kayaking was at Scorpion and at Prisoner's, you had to go on a guided tour of the Nature Conservancy lands which required hiking about 5 miles r/t. I arrived in Prisoner's Harbor around 11 am and started running shortly after. We really enjoyed walking by the river. The high winds almost drove us insane, and the water carry sucks, but overall very worth it. Most day trippers will get dropped off at the Scorpion Anchorage, which is closest to a variety of trails, kayaking tours, and the largest campground on the island. The Scorpion Anchorage is the most visited destination in the park, with about 65,000 people coming ashore each year to enjoy recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, camping, kayaking, and swimming, according to park staff. Side note, whenever I head to this part of town from the coast, Google maps will take me up wildcat canyon road instead of El Monte road. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. 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. Only negative is that people dont pick up after their dogs. Be careful because the water spigots tend to have a lot of yellow jackets around them. Re: Santa Cruz: Prisoner Harbor or Scorpion Anchorage 8 years ago This post has been removed at the author's request. (As of November 2019 this location is closed for construction of a new pier and will reopen summer 2020). Island Packers is continuing its trips to Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz, Anacapa Island, weekend rides to . Good workout without being too long or too much of a scramble. Also went across the Diamond Creek twice to explore other connecting trails, This is a fabulous trail. It looks like its about an inch away from completely sinking. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 21 min to complete. Really fun trail. It can get cold on the boat on the way to and from Santa Cruz Island so be prepared with additional layers. 1. It can get very crowded here, particularly when kids are on summer vacation. Great views of the ocean and cliffs. And dont miss the loop trail to Potato Harbor. An area not as much fun to traverse with a fully loaded pack. There are two locations that Island Packers goes to on Santa Cruz Island: Prisoners Harbor and Scorpion Anchorage. I also explained the risks on the phone to Renske, who didnt seem perturbed either. There are side trails that lead down to the river. I hiked this memorial weekend and first 2 days were overcast. There are a lot of things to do on Santa Cruz Island including hiking, swimming, snorkeling or kayaking. Its now a significant obstruction. Im sure youre right, I say. We decide to turn back early, making todays 8-mile paddle a 3-mile one. No there is no fee to kayak from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage. As a reminder, as of November 1st, the Scorpion Anchorage Pier was closed for repairs prohibiting guests to visit the Scorpion Anchorage area except for from December 21st to January 5th during the holidays.. 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