Remember to carry plenty of water! A few short scrambles over rocks and two small streams to jump. There are a lot of things to do on Santa Cruz Island including hiking, swimming, snorkeling or kayaking. Camping is located at both Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor. But, when nine friends married, Texan, long-time friends Rich and Wendy; less experienced, married paddlers Sam and Whitney; eternally cheerful, San Francisco-based couple Natalie and Norberto; Minnesotan Lisa whom Ive hiked with before, long-time college friend Suzanne, and Dutch Renske took me up on the offer (with four flying in from out of town), I immediately felt a big responsibility to ensure that our trip wasnt a disaster. Potable water available at Scorpian Anchorage but none at Del Norte so plan accordingly! [], Island Packers Cruises is your ticket to Channel Island National Park. On our second day, we kayaked 9 miles from Scorpion Anchorage to Prisoners Harbor and then hiked the three (strenuous) miles to the Del Norte Campground on a mountaintop. Please be sure to check back frequently as this journey continues. One of the best things to do while visiting Santa Cruz Island is to kayak and explore the sea caves. So you have 4 hours tops to do a half marathon (I clocked it at exactly 13.1 from pier to pier). Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you are camping, get reservations well ahead of your trip. Would recommend going from the peak to potato harbor then to scorpion! We traveled during labor day weekend. The area around the high mount is technical but didn't feel dangerous. 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. Scorpion Anchorage to Prisoner's Harbor Backpacking2 days15 mi(one-way) Itinerary Trailhead directions Scorpion Anchorage 11.9 mi 2,600 ft gain Del Norte Campground 3.1 mi 400 ft gain Prisoner's Harbor Reservations This trip requires aSanta Cruz Del Norte Campground. Prisoners 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. At Prisoners Harbor, tables are located near the beach. Such a beautiful hike! If you have more time you can combine multiple hikes and do both the blue and green loops. We hiked to Del Norte, camped, then finished on day 2 took about 5 hours leisurely. 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. Permits not required; its your national park. The rode simply bowed and we couldnt get over the stern hook. The boat also has a counter with snacks and drinks you can buy. For information about camping ashore, guided tours and facilities, go to National Park Service. Originally intending to do this in two days / one night, we ended up doing it in three days / two nights due to high winds stopping the ferry from picking us up. This species of island fox evolved from the mainland gray fox. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 21 min to complete. If you see a shark while kayaking from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage you should stay calm and paddle towards the shore. On your Channel Islands day trip dont miss the museum where you can learn more about the Channel Islands. Prisoners Harbor is our newest location and will be open during the construction at Scorpion Anchorage. If you start Cavern Point Loop counterclockwise, the trail starts about a 5 minute walk up from the pier, past the bathrooms. During the game, I do my best impression of Dumbo; Sam does her best impression of eating lemons because, well, Meadowlark Lemon; and Rich does his best impression of Jack Woltz discovering a severed horses head in his bed, which, unexpectedly, seems to help everyone relax a bit. Even with a helmet,you could still be crushed if youve picked a cave with poor clearance. Well signed. This post has been removed at the author's request. Follow this guide for how to do a day trip to Channel Islands National Park, Santa Cruz Island. Got to Scorpion at 310p for the 4p ferry. Make sure you bring enough water, there is no source for potable water until you get to Scorpion. Im a sports expert and lover. We generally paddle west in the morning and, if were on a long trip, in good position to ride the westerly home. But, Im lying. I would rate it as easy for 90% of the way, and moderate the other 10% There is a parking lot of probably 50 spaces, but get there early because otherwise youll have to wait for a spot! Can someone tell me why the hell Im carrying ten pounds of lemons in here? I yell to anyone who will listen. We didnt do the whole thing this is definitely longer than 3.6 miles. Scorpion Anchorage is just an 18-mile ride off the coast of Ventura County on the 96-square-mile island of Santa Cruz. I should have believed her; but, so often, its impossible to adopt the faith that others have in us for ourselves. The Crossing The channel crossing for a Prisoner's Harbor day trip is approximately 1 .5 to 2 hours depending on vessel route and possible stops at Scorpion Anchorage. Place Name River crossings are closed by the rangers due to high water. The campground was amazing and clean. This trail is great for backpacking, birding, and camping, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Bringing a Kayak with you to Santa Cruz Island would be the cheaper option but definitely more effort to coordinate. 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.. Our other favorite activities at Prisoner's Harbor on Santa Cruz Island . 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. 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. Do this hike one way by getting dropped off by the ferry at prisoners. Backpacking Santa Cruz Island: Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Harbor Updated: January 05, 2020; Post By: Matthew Hengst; January 3rd to 5th, 2020. Just put El Monte park into your maps and it will take you to the trailhead. 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. There are two bathrooms on the boat which arent bad, but I wouldnt recommend going when the boat is moving since it can get bumpy. . Scorpion has the best kayaking spots on the island. They have regular trips to all of the islands and whale watching excursions too. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2022 by Hank Leukart, All Rights Reserved. A fun family day enjoying nature. Island Packers is continuing its trips to Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz, Anacapa Island, weekend rides to . I would guess a couple more miles. Scorpion Anchorage is the best area of the Channel Islands National Park to kayak. If it werent for the white noise of the relentless wind, wed be able to hear the barking of the California sea lions that we see nearby and the call of falcons flying overhead. Report inappropriate content 2. On the other hand, if its late in the day and were the only ones looking for a spot, well sometimes use a single hook in the center of the anchorage. Eel grass might be. We can do it! Two of us completed weekend of 5/30. It was scary going down especially with my super heavy backpack. Every landmark had personality, every direction I looked was art. Im sure youre right, I say. Also went across the Diamond Creek twice to explore other connecting trails, This is a fabulous trail. Tours depart to this area of the island daily, weather permitting. But at scorpion is so windy. 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 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 main trail from Del Norte Camp to Scorpion Anchorage is in pretty good condition. All pier landings involve climbing a ladder between 1 and 6 rungs Santa Rosa Bechers Bay landings are on a pier and onto a grated catwalk to a flight of stairs You will need to bring sunscreen hats sunglasses water snacks and a first aid kit when you kayak from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage. Worth the trip. Come prepared to pack out all your trash. It costs $60 per person roundtrip to Santa Cruz Island. So, you must pack all your water. 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. 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. It's beautiful right now. When we intend to spend only a few hours, we prefer to drop a single hook just shoreward of the charted 13 ft. rock (just left of the S in Scorpion on the chart) in 20-25 feet of water but will accept a spot almost anywhere along the beach and will anchor to within 100 yards west of Bird S***t, rock(78 rock) if we have to. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Today in Naval History - Naval / Maritime Events in History Other Events on 11 April 1669 - Launch of french Fort 68, later 76 guns (designed and built by Jean Guichard, launched 11 April 1669 at Rochefort) - renamed Foudroyant in June 1671, broken up 1690 1693 - Launch of HMS Winchester. Hearing this, less experienced kayakers Sam and Whitney seemed like they were ready to, literally, jump ship. We reluctantly tied a fender to our aft rode and jettisoned the ground tackle. Anchoring at Little Scorpion The anchorage is quite deep and you'll find that you have to maneuver in fairly close to anchor in less than 35 ft. There is potable water on Santa Cruz Island in the Scorpion campground where you can refill your water bottle. The Prisoner's Harbor area is part of The Nature Conservancy section of the island. Gorgeous after the rains and a good steady incline. 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 hiked this memorial weekend and first 2 days were overcast. But remember, for a yacht on a single hook, this is, at best a fair weather anchorage. It can get very crowded here, particularly when kids are on summer vacation. There is no shade on this trail, so dress accordingly and have sun protection. It was our first time visiting this Channel Island, and the thought of powering through the. The National Park ranger tried to stop us when she saw our kayak loaded with all of our camping gear, Natalie says, She told us that we cant camp on any other beaches! There are only four sites there are the view was spectacular. Scorpion Anchorage is our MOST POPULAR year round sea cave kayaking tour. Very quiet. When we stop for a snack break after two hours of paddling, Renske and I are smiling and laughing, and I realize that were actually having fun. However, only 24 percent of the island is open to the public. We decide to turn back early, making todays 8-mile paddle a 3-mile one. Long way down on either side of the trail at the mountain. Both locations have many activities such as hiking, snorkeling, bird watching, ocean kayaking, and camping to check out. You will find many unique sea caves near Scorpion Anchorage, making Santa Cruz Island a unique place to kayak. Visitor Center A visitor center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house. Anything to help us forget tomorrows inevitable middle-of-the-ocean-emergency-rescue, I think. Stunning day, dappled sunlight, running river, not too crowded once you get past the first mile or so. I started imagining elaborate suicide strategies to avoid having to tell nine of my friends that our six-months-in-the-making July 4th plans were now destroyed and I decided that somehow drowning myself in a kayak would be the most poetic way to go. This location has stunning views of both the island and marine environment. Inside, I find two huge bags of lemons. Santa Cruz Island has a few beautiful hiking trails. Scorpion Anchorage is one of two landing locations on Santa Cruz Island. It's a 1-mile climb to captivating Cavern Point. Youll likely spot Scorpion Canyon next. Very beautiful trail that follows the coastline of Santa Cruz Island! Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links for products and services I recommend. 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 kayak through a towering rock archway and into dark sea caves stretching into the island. Lots of grass with sharp needle like pointers that I was constantly reaching down to pull out. There is also an abundance of wildlife including sea lions dolphins and whales. The Channel Islands are home to over 2,000 plant and animal species, of which 145 are found nowhere else in the world. Scorpion and the interpretive center are west, Little Scorpion for overnighting is just east. This trail is great for backpacking, birding, and camping, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. I think thats Prisoners Harbor. Within an hour, Rich, Wendy, Renske, and I complete the last three miles of the nine-mile paddle. An area not as much fun to traverse with a fully loaded pack. Everything was in bloom. We really enjoyed walking by the river. Hike Cavern Point Loop counterclockwise and then continue on North Bluff Trail to Potato Harbor overlook. Exposed. This hike is a significantly steeper climb and is only recommended if you are planning to spend the entire day in Santa Cruz Island hiking. On day 2, hike to Scorpion Anchorage and spend another night. The climb to montaon ridge was a bit of a scramble and pretty difficult with a heavy pack. 0:39 - Turnoff for the Del Norte Trail (times are approximate) Weather was nice although a little warm in the sun. When most people think of kayaking they imagine themselves paddling peacefully down a river on a hot summer day. Required fields are marked *. This is probably the best All Trails map for the hike to Del Norte campground on Santa Cruz from Prisoners Harbor -- on the map, it includes the green to the yellow circle. at Del Nortes fox boxes, but theres no guarantee. The nightmare that Ive been worrying about for days is materializing before my eyes. The spring is the best time to do a day trip to Channel Islands National Park if you want to see more foliage while still enjoying nice weather. It costs $60 per person roundtrip to Santa Cruz Island. It's expected to take six to eight months. the weather was helpful because it was foggy and not to hot. I also explained the risks on the phone to Renske, who didnt seem perturbed either. Active birding zone and saw a trout jump. There are two locations that Island Packers goes to on Santa Cruz Island: Prisoners Harbor and Scorpion Anchorage. 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. So much bright spring green making it like a fairyland. We were heading across nearly 22 miles of the Pacific toward Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island. Well marked and didnt run into a ton of people! Completed this trail 4/16/21. 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. One could think of Prisoner's Harbor as Two Harbors to Scorpion's Avalon. Scorpion Anchorage is one of two landing locations on Santa Cruz Island. My husband and I took our 9 year old son and he enjoyed it so much. It's a spectacular hike, and we didn't see a single person on the trail once we left the campground. From Santa Barbara to Ventura Harbor, its about a 30 mile drive. 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! It takes about 2 hours to kayak from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage. Potato Harbor hike. It must not have even occurred to her that we were kayaking the full nine miles to the other legal campground.. There was a sign that said trails closed ahead so we did not end up hiking here today. The trail was super straightforward and spot on with AllTrails. There are over 500 wineries in Napa, The American Southwest features incredible natural wonders and landscapes that cannot be missed. Good views! Explore Prisoner's Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island - view hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. The boat ride with island Packers was very nice comfortable with bathrooms and bar with smacks. There are a lot of trees along the trail. Then did del Norte > scorpion campground the next day. If you dont want to spend the money on the kayak tour (yes, its pricey), you could spend your day at Channel Islands National Park doing one or both of the hikes below, and then snorkeling on your own with your extra time. 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. I normally don't care for gaiters but this would be an exception. 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. Landed at Scorpion, hiked to Del Norte Campground to stay the night. The loop visits two of the most famous points on the eastern section of the island, Cavern Point and Potato Harbor. 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. My. Since it is located twelve miles offshore, the only access to Anacapa Lighthouse is by [], If you take a boat trip out to Santa Cruz Island or Santa Rosa Island in the Channel Islands you might be treated to a stop at the painted cave [], The Port Hueneme Lighthouse is open every third Saturday monthly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m, but you must arrive before 2:30 p.m. to make it for the finally tour. There were lots of wildflowers and opportunities to see wildlife like birds, butterflies, small rodents, and even the Santa Cruz fox. Highly recommend. This was a beautiful trail no doubt! Both 60- and 90-minute boat rides can be booked from both Ventura and Oxnard Harbors. See, it all turned out okay, Renske whispers in my ear. If you arrive to Scorpion Anchorage I recommend hiking at least the blue loop above. Book a ticket on the Catalina Flyer from Newport Beach and visit Catalina Island for the day. CAMPSITES: The National Park on Santa Cruz Island has two campgrounds: Scorpion Anchorage and Del Norte. 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. I did this going the other direction, from Scorpion to Prisoners. Shaded for 90% of it and just a little out in the sun on the uphill section. 2023 Channel Island Adventure Co. Privacy | Terms, Spring in Channel Islands National Park - Channel Islands Adventure Company | Kayaking & Snorkel. Painted Cave, further west, is far more vast, but the caves near Scorpion are easily accessible and require no spelunking gear. Get picked up from the scorpion dock the next morning. Very peaceful lots of nature though if you want to cross the river be prepared to get a little wet. Note: Kelp, which virtually disappeared from all of the islands, is rebounding with vigor at Scorpion and covers the surface south and east of (10) rock. Round trip tickets cost an obscene $79 (plus $28 per kayak transported), proving that a world with boat transportation monopolies is a bad world indeed. The flowers are popping off like crazy. You can reserve snorkel gear or a snorkel tour and see the most updated prices on the Channel Islands Adventure Company website. Approaching the ridge was probably the most difficult and treacherous part for someone backpacking (~0.2 miles) with steep cliffs, rocky, unstable trail. Id recommend re-mapping yourself again when you get into lakeside to make sure the coordinates to the trailhead are correct or youll have another 20 min drive to go back down wildcat canyon road. 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. However kayaking in cold water [], If youre someone who likes to be on the water you may be wondering if you can use a kayak paddle for [], 2023All Sports FAQAll rights reserved, Powered byWPDesigned with the Customizr theme. We get accustomed to an effective paddling rhythm, our kayaks moving surprisingly quickly across the surface of the water. They have a small store located about a 10 minute walk from the pier, past the restrooms and museum. Did this trek over 3 days and 2 nights. I suspect its the former. It definitely seems worth it to spend time exploring the nearby sea caves. Painted Cave* Tours ONLY runs in the Summer. Check out these activities on Get Your Guideincluding a Brunch Cruise, Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise,and a sea kayaking tour at La Jolla. I'm deciding between the two and have a few questions. I arrived in Prisoner's Harbor around 11 am and started running shortly after. 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. Love the horses that hike along the trails too! Once on the boat, there are two main drop off points on Santa Cruz Island: Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor. The anchorage is quite deep and youll find that you have to maneuver in fairly close to anchor in less than 35 ft. There is rarely any breaking surf, which makes this one of the few easy places to come ashore on Santa Cruz. Lots of people have needed to be rescued trying to kayak from Scorpion to Prisoners because the winds against you, the employee said. Whitney has a smile on his face and though Sam, Lisa and Suzanne look very relieved theyre done, they dont seem permanently scarred. A little bit of tidal rush, a biggish wave, maybe just the wake off a tourist boat can ram you into the ceiling. All pier landings involve climbing a ladder between 1 and 6 rungs. this was very difficult because of the climbing uphills. Definitely recommend trekking poles because there comes a point where it gets really rocky and steep. They will get into your shoes and pants. If this isnt it, Im going to kill myself!. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. If you miss it youre stuck overnight. Want to report conditions for this trail? View Our Latest Marine Mammal Sightings Prisoners Harbor is located midway along the North shore of Santa Cruz Island. I cant really say how this trail is since there is not enough parking, so we couldnt stay to take the trail. Dinner, yells Rich, who is in charge of the July 4 mystery dinner, says as a kind of non-explanation explanation. The trail begins on a fire road leaving Prisoner's Harbor and rises above sea level, overlooking the northern coast of the island. Make sure to decide on your Channel Islands itinerary for the day before you leave as there will be no service on the island to do any research. . The Scorpion Anchorage pier construction is scheduled to start in November. I did not have trekking poles so definitely had to use my hands at times lol. When climbing near the peak there is a lot of loose rocks and steep climbing. This list of the 16 top destinations in the Southwest US will, The Southwest is a unique part of the United States, full of unique natural wonders. The next day, we continued on to Scorpion via Montoon. As were only two or three boat lengths from a lee shore, we are skittish about taking the whole family ashore. The Island Fox can be spotted at both locations along with the Island Scrub-Jay. For visitors planning a multi-day or overnight trip, camping reservations must be made in advance. You will see the museum ahead of you and a small sign on the right that says Cavern Pt Loop Trail. Beautiful views, trail is easy to follow. a hill. Started at Prisoners and hiked to Del Norte Camp, stayed the night. Alternatively, you may use, Channel Islands National Park Travel Forum, Channel Islands National Park Vacation Rentals, Channel Islands National Park Attractions, http://www.tripadvisor.com/help/how_to_edit_your_posts. Ran about a third, averaged 18:30 or so over the entire trail. Swell, wind and, on one occasion, the smell from Bird S**t Rock (78) have encouraged me to find another spot for the night. Dont worry you can definitely do it. Scorpion Anchorage is a small harbor with a pier on the northeast side of Santa Cruz Island. Travel time to Scorpion is a little over an hour and Prisoners Harbor, on direct route is about one and a half hours. Trail winds through old grazing grounds then connects to Navy Road for a bit then to single track. For access to Santa Cruz Island inquire with Island Packers Cruises. It is a very happy thing to walk while listening to the sound of water. Bring lots of sunscreen and a camera to capture the beautiful views :]. Want to know about other wildlife on the island? The trail crosses from one geological plate to the other and it was fascinating to see the change in terrain and fauna. Nice trail! Dan. The other option is you could bring your own kayak or rent a kayak from Channel Islands Kayak Center for the day and pay a fee to Island Packers to transport it for you. The pier, which you'd think would be very prominent, is often hard to see, particularly in late afternoon sun. The midway point has a steep incline but the rest of the trail is pretty flat. A day trip to Channel Islands National Park is not complete without visiting Potato Harbor Overlook. To get to Prisoners Harbor, take the Island Packers Ferry. Recommended Routes in Santa Cruz Island - 2 Hiking Project is built by hikers like you. 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. Look, there is nothing tragic happening here as far as I can tell, Wendy texted me. The Park is undertaking two large construction projectsthe replacement of the pier at Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island and the crane on Anacapa Island. #leavenotrace. The transportation to Santa Cruz Island is with Island Packers and goes out of Ventura Harbor. The Island Packers boat to Santa Cruz Island leaves early from Ventura Harbor, so I recommend booking accommodation nearby for the night before. Scorpion, the gateway to the islands activities, is open once again and the pier is available to Island Packers, NPS and other government boats. It's best to check with Island Packers. Cruises to both Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor leave from the Ventura Harbor location year-round. There's a trip to Santa Rosa or a trip to Prisoners Harbor at Santa Cruz available with Island Packers. Flowers starting to blossom. parts of the trail were moist due to the mist. I really liked it. Beautiful, serene hike!
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scorpion anchorage vs prisoners harbor