Filtered water is available at Scorpion Anchorage, but no water is available at Prisoners Harbor or Del Norte, so be sure to bring your own. love this trial, short n sweet with great scenery. Channel Islands Adventure Company offers kayak tours from 1 hour to 5 hours long where you can explore the sea caves, and in the longer tour even make it to Potato Harbor. The high winds almost drove us insane, and the water carry sucks, but overall very worth it. Calm, peaceful, and very easy. We chose to visit Santa Cruz Island because at only about an hour away from the mainland it offers a lot of things to do and see and is possible to visit on a day trip. There is potable water, pit toilets, picnic tables, and food storage bins at this campground. 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. Loved this hike! The trip is about 12 miles each way and kayakers must contend with strong tides and currents as well as wind and waves. This was a beautiful trail no doubt! Great hike. Scorpion Cove vs. Trail winds through old grazing grounds then connects to Navy Road for a bit then to single track. Required fields are marked *. Lots of shade. So you have 4 hours tops to do a half marathon (I clocked it at exactly 13.1 from pier to pier). 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. About 6.5 miles in you start a scramble of sorts up a steep trail leading you up to the ridge overlooking Scorpion. There are side trails that lead down to the river. Try this 20.1-km point-to-point trail near Santa Barbara, California. Campsite 1 & 2 great views; campsite 3 & 4 have shade. 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. The trail is fairly marked well however there are some spots where the trail narrows considerably and can be difficult footing for some. We really enjoyed walking by the river. I carried 9L with me because there is no water at Del norte. Passed by 2 crossings, wasnt able to go through the river since the water was too high for the outfit I had. my dogs loved it and were in and out of the river. a hill. Also make sure to wear comfy shoes and probably double up on socks. 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. Apart from teaching my students in class, we also go outside the four walls of the classroom to physically experience what was discussed in class. Great trail with the sound of running water the whole way. Calm campsite. CAMPSITES: The National Park on Santa Cruz Island has two campgrounds: Scorpion Anchorage and Del Norte. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Active birding zone and saw a trout jump. I highly recommend this to see the island quickly. Dont follow this trail, its not to the river at all. Thought it was a German shepherd at first. Our other favorite activities at Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island are hiking the Pelican Trail with a trained naturalist from Island Packers or enjoying the wildlife both on the island and in the water (dont forget to bring a camera!). You'll wish you hadn't left your canteen on the boat. The island is volcanic, but did not emerge from the sea for Millenia. I told you that you could do it! I yell. 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. Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links for products and services I recommend. Note: Giant Kelp, which has been in decline for more than a decade is making a comeback. 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. Both 60- and 90-minute boat rides can be booked from both Ventura and Oxnard Harbors. But, now, sitting with Renske in the ocean on our first kayaking day, surrounded by strong winds and whitecaps, its not even clear that at least we have each other. Though newly-Crossfit-trained Rich and Wendy are battling the waves furiously nearby, the rest of the group has already turned back to the beach. It usually affords protection from the prevailing westerlies, but the swell can enter the anchorage, making for rough and sleepless nights. Eel grass might be. There are over 500 wineries in Napa, The American Southwest features incredible natural wonders and landscapes that cannot be missed. Potable water available at Scorpian Anchorage but none at Del Norte so plan accordingly! 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. Weather conditions can change rapidly, it is best to bring layers and a jacket regardless of the time of year. Gorgeous views of El Capitan and the valley below, everything is so green right now, we felt like we were in Ireland. But remember, for a yacht on a single hook, this is, at best a fair weather anchorage. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Remember to carry plenty of water! Extend your trip to California by visiting Big Sur, Temecula, Death Valley National Park, or Joshua Tree National Park. Fortunately for us, our friend Rex was able to blast out there in his Whaler a few days later and pick it up. The Channel Islands are home to over 2,000 plant and animal species, of which 145 are found nowhere else in the world. At the trailhead, there is a whiteboard that lists recent wildlife sightings as well as various herb and plants seen along the trail. 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! Scorpion Anchorage is one of two landing locations on Santa Cruz Island. Rich sets up a makeshift cocktail bar on top of a Fox Box the metal safes used on Santa Cruz to keep foxes from stealing camp food pulls out a metal citrus squeezer, and begins filling a bottle with fresh lemon juice. 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. The southeast end, from Prisoners Harbor east to San Pedro Point, is part of the park. Really fun trail. There are two campgrounds, one at Scorpion Anchorage and another near Prisoners Harbor. A little long, and some unsteady rocks. The video explains our method and describes our trepidation. This trail is great for backpacking, birding, and camping, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Little Scorpion is a fraction of a mile east. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. iptv m3u. But at scorpion is so windy. Weather was nice although a little warm in the sun. We didnt do the whole thing this is definitely longer than 3.6 miles. 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 Disembarked ferry at Prisoners at 1115a and started straightaway. 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. Got to Scorpion at 310p for the 4p ferry. There is no shade on this trail, so dress accordingly and have sun protection. Wildlife can be spotted at both locations and will vary depending on the time of day and season. They have a small store located about a 10 minute walk from the pier, past the restrooms and museum. If you have new or amplifying information concerning this anchorage or the surrounding area, please contact Capt. First 5 lots of up and down, walked the down; then 6-9 ran the downs and flats around a 10 min pace, 8ish-9.5 steep uphill but not death; last 4 mostly down so cruised it. Prisoner's Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island. Be aware of weather conditions and bring extra food. Channel Islands National Park is comprised of 5 islands. We want to go back and explore more! 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. Prisoners Harbor: An Overview Scorpion Cove Basics A view of Scorpion Cove while descending Cavern Point Loop Scorpion Cove aka Scorpion Ranch (or Scorpion Anchorage to the local boaters), is the most popular location to visit in Channel Islands National Park. On the southwest corner of the campground you will see the Scorpion Canyon Loop trail. Answer 1 of 5: I have one day in February to visit the Channel Islands National Park. The bottom is sand and holding is excellent and kelp is not an issue these days. And the rock is again a giant white beacon beckoning sailors to spend some time. I hope you have found some useful content on my site today. This area of the park offers more sea caves than any others. IG - @kylerampone. The trail was super straightforward and spot on with AllTrails. Every landmark had personality, every direction I looked was art. If youre north of the anchorage, locate the steep cliffs of Cavern Point. We get accustomed to an effective paddling rhythm, our kayaks moving surprisingly quickly across the surface of the water. When climbing near the peak there is a lot of loose rocks and steep climbing. This is it! Have fun! We made it to Prisoners Harbor with about 40 minutes to spare before the ferry left at 3pm. Dan. Im sure youre right, I say. Scorpion Anchorage - remain clear of the buoys. It's expected to take six to eight months. Its just too hard of a paddle. Oh my God, our entire trip is already doomed, I thought. 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. 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. The boat is fairly large, and has indoor seating, outdoor seating in the back, and second floor seating with both covered and uncovered parts. The Ultimate Weekend in Death Valley National Park, Yellowstone National Park Weekend Itinerary, Joshua Tree National Park Weekend Getaway, Channel Islands Adventure Company website, 20 Gift Ideas for People Who Love to Travel, 10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary: From Hot Springs to Cloud Forests, 16 Top Destinations in the Southwest US You Must See, 10-Day American Southwest Road Trip Itinerary, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Guide: Best Hikes and Views. Island Packers operates trips to Santa Cruz Island 5-7 days a week, year round. Island Packers uses Scorpion (the western one at the mouth of the valley where the ranch house and interpretive center are located) to offload hundreds of hikers, backpackers and kayakers. They have regular trips to all of the islands and whale watching excursions too. 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. Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor are the two most popular destinations that the Island Packers stops at. The swell frequently creeps around the corner in the Island Packers. Visitor Center A visitor center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house. Hi- I will be visiting with 3 friends over Memorial Day weekend. Im sure youre making a bigger deal of it than it is, she said. Are we going to die? Sam asked. I formerly head the sports department at the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. In summer and fall, it's hot and dusty. It was the best hike Ive ever done, she said. Beautiful, serene hike! Reviews (4,028) Photos (4,701) 5: 4: 3: 2: 1: 4.5. Tomorrow well be easier. I suggest that we play a game before dinner, and Sam suggests that we play the celebrity-guessing game Times Up. It runs right into the day anchorage. But otherwise beautiful, I completed this trail with my Dad this weekend, 6/19/22 - it was absolutely beautiful. I hiked from prisoners harbor to scorpion Anchorage in one day from noon to about 7:30 pm carrying a pack of 30#. Everything was in bloom. While this is a great spot for exploring in your plastic boat, many of the caves have dangerously low ceilings. Its our best chance to get to Prisoners Harbor, I say, hoping to avoid the afternoon ocean swells that ruined todays kayak. So much bright spring green making it like a fairyland. It looks like its about an inch away from completely sinking. The trail begins on a fire road leaving Prisoner's Harbor and rises above sea level, overlooking the northern coast of the island. The trip is about 12 miles each way and [] 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. No water until scorpions but we were okay with 14L for two days for two adults. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Very good trail, good weather. First 4.5 miles to the del Norte campground were strenuous with a full pack and 5L of water. I hiked this memorial weekend and first 2 days were overcast. Nice trail but steep around the peak, kinda sketchy with big backpacks on but totally doable. And speaking of the smell, it just isnt a problem right now. Very quiet. It can get very crowded here, particularly when kids are on summer vacation. View Our Latest Marine Mammal Sightings Prisoners Harbor is located midway along the North shore of Santa Cruz Island. Trail was near deserted. Beautiful green fields, glorious views and no one else out since a big storm is coming this afternoon. Went in mid-March, stunningly green and beautiful, charming weather. Meanwhile, my backpack which Renske packed in the morning feels like its filled with bowling balls, so I decide to open it to make sure she didnt play a bad joke on me. The bottom is mostly sand, though we have encountered some eel grass. There is rarely any breaking surf, which makes this one of the few easy places to come ashore on Santa Cruz. However, only 24 percent of the island is open to the public. OVERVIEW: Santa Cruz Island is part of Channel Islands National Park, a group of five islands sitting in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California. Definitely 13.3-13.5 mi, not 12.5. It took about 1.5 hours to finally get on the trail and hiking from the time we left. You may cross over a very small stream, or two, in the first couple of miles, but don't count on there being water there unless it's rained recently, and there is nothing after that. Find the great white beacon of Bird Shit Rock. Park day fee is $3 to park. We crossed the water and we had a snack and back home. Santa Cruz Island has a few beautiful hiking trails. Good views! The Scorpion Anchorage pier construction is scheduled to start in November. We camped at Del Norte 1st night and woke up and completed the trail (11mi) to Scorpion Cove. Gorgeous after the rains and a good steady incline. You can spend the night at Del Norte, then hike to Scorpion Campground for another night. 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. But, Im lying. She believed that? I laugh. Check out these activities on Get Your Guideincluding a Brunch Cruise, Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise,and a sea kayaking tour at La Jolla. There are only four sites there are the view was spectacular. Re: Santa Cruz: Prisoner Harbor or Scorpion Anchorage 8 years ago This post has been removed at the author's request. When the wind blows, it sure does blow!!! Check out this blog post: Channel Islands National Park Animals. At Prisoners Harbor, tables are located near the beach. Painted Cave, further west, is far more vast, but the caves near Scorpion are easily accessible and require no spelunking gear. If the current is this bad tomorrow, I yell to Renske. We only saw 2 others on the trail. There are a lot of trees along the trail. Is this it? Sorry! Definitely wear sunscreen no shade: I put it everywhere but my ears and my ears now are blistering from that bad of a sunburn. There are, Your email address will not be published. It is possible to kayak from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage but it is a long and challenging journey. Long way down on either side of the trail at the mountain. 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. If you planning on going go early to get parking or else come back another day cause you may not find parking. Lots of running water lots of beautiful trees very quiet. Hurrying, most of us push off from the beach and paddle almost a mile out before Natalie and Norberto, who were lagging behind, manage to catch up. For more information, please visit: No conditions reported in the past 7 days. If you want to make sure you get the best seats you could arrive earlier to get in line sooner. It is possible to kayak from Prisoner's Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage but it is a long and challenging journey. Super shady and green. 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. Death Valley National Park is the hottest place on earth and the lowest elevation in North America. Great views. 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! Also, my watch clocked me at 14.5 miles not 12.5. 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! Suddenly, a strong gust smashes an aggressive wave over our boat, soaking us both completely. it gets super busy so i recommend going during the week day if you get a chance ! Just put El Monte park into your maps and it will take you to the trailhead. Really nice walk along the water. You can stay at Scorpion Anchorage for up to 14 days. The maximum number of people that can camp at Scorpion Anchorage is 30. Weather was perfect. Stunning day, dappled sunlight, running river, not too crowded once you get past the first mile or so. Travel guides created to inspire and enable people to use their time away from the office to explore the world. Love the river access and beautiful trees in fall. 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