The point where you turn around is Potato Harbor Overlook (pictured in the last photo above), where you will see this amazing view of the clear blue water and can also see sea lions. There is no water at Del Norte campground. We took the Island Packers ferry to Scorpion Harbor which left Ventura at 8am. I planned this trip to be much easier than either of those, I said, trying to keep everyone relaxed. 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. 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. Boat to Catalina Island for a day trip! MHiked backwards scorpion to Del norte. 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. Book a ticket on the Catalina Flyer from Newport Beach and visit Catalina Island for the day. 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 Spend time exploring the island, snorkeling, relaxing on the beach, and more. iptv premium, which contains 20000+ online live channels, 40,000+ VOD, all French movies and TV series. The weather in Prisoners Harbor is usually sunny and warm. We kayak through a towering rock archway and into dark sea caves stretching into the island. It took about 1.5 hours to finally get on the trail and hiking from the time we left. 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! I couldnt have done this trip without my hiking sticks! You should book your trip ahead of time on the Island Packers websitebecause boats do fill up. Make sure to book your campsites (NPS.gov) and boat ride (Islands Packers) ahead of time. The lower loop is about a 1/2 mile hike in and the upper loop is about a mile, depending on where your site is located inside the loop. Kind of in eventful end of trail but definitely an easy loop, Nice route, beautiful creek, can get a bit crowded during the weekends. Well, if you have a [], Copyright CaliforniaBeaches.comAbout Us | ContactPrivacy Policy | Terms of Use, NavigateBeachesMapsArticlesHotelsRestaurantsAttractions, Join our email list to get new information, events or other fun stuff, Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Resort, Best Whale Watching Spots in Southern California. If you have more time you can combine multiple hikes and do both the blue and green loops. There were a lot of ups and downs but really nothing unbearable for a someone fit. A few short scrambles over rocks and two small streams to jump. If you see a shark while kayaking from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage you should stay calm and paddle towards the shore. Its possible to hike to Chinese Harbor Beach and continue west all the way to Prisoners Harbor, but that is a very long shade-less trek. So, you must pack all your water. They explain that the wind forced them to turn back after only a half-mile. Note: Giant Kelp, which has been in decline for more than a decade is making a comeback. The rode simply bowed and we couldnt get over the stern hook. 0:39 - Turnoff for the Del Norte Trail (times are approximate) Answer 1 of 5: I have one day in February to visit the Channel Islands National Park. Just follow the coast until you hit that dock on the other side of the bay. The main challenge of this hike is the lack of water along the way. I brought about 5 liters of water in the springtime and was enough for me until I reached Scorpions where there was potable water. When most people think of kayaking they imagine themselves paddling peacefully down a river on a hot summer day. Pretty decent incline as well. Thank God for his help. This hike would be the best in the spring when Santa Cruz Island has more foliage since it is mostly internal through the canyon. Headed out to Santa Cruz Island in the Channel Islands National Park? If you miss it youre stuck overnight. Scorpion and the interpretive center are west, Little Scorpion for overnighting is just east. Love the river access and beautiful trees in fall. I'm deciding between the two and have a few questions. Prisoners Harbor is our newest location and will be open during the construction at Scorpion Anchorage. Very good trail, good weather. Night 1 at del Norte (make reservations) then night 2 at scorpion canyon. Also make sure to wear comfy shoes and probably double up on socks. The loop visits two of the most famous points on the eastern section of the island, Cavern Point and Potato Harbor. Island Packers is continuing its trips to Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz, Anacapa Island, weekend rides to . End your day trip to Santa Cruz Island with a nice boat ride back to Ventura. Remember to carry plenty of water! It takes about 2 hours to kayak from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage. Try this 20.1-km point-to-point trail near Santa Barbara, California. The name of the island that Prisoners Harbor is located on is Santa Cruz Island. Awesome hike! 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. I have at least another hour in me! After about 30 minutes, the rest of the group joins us on the beach. 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. If this isnt it, Im going to kill myself!. Camping is located at both Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor. We were blessed with clear skies, mid 60 degree temps, and no wind which made for a perfect hiking day. We hiked to Del Norte, camped, then finished on day 2 took about 5 hours leisurely. parts of the trail were moist due to the mist. Some of the tracks looked like mountain lion tracks. We crossed the River 6 times to get to our destination recommend extra shoes/or just be prepared to get your feet/up to ankles wet. All in all its a pleasant hike to do with family. Weather conditions can change rapidly, it is best to bring layers and a jacket regardless of the time of year. I am 42 yr old man that weighs 205 lbs. Would recommend going from the peak to potato harbor then to scorpion! 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. It is also a good idea to have a support boat or someone on shore who can keep an eye on you. 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. 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. You will find many unique sea caves near Scorpion Anchorage, making Santa Cruz Island a unique place to kayak. Well marked and didnt run into a ton of people! Loved the sound of water all along the trail. Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor are the two most popular destinations that the Island Packers stops at. There are only four sites there are the view was spectacular. Island Packers Cruises is the exclusive concessionaire to the national park. Check out Prisoners Harbor! Could be a little tricky for some. 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. At this point we were in danger of being blown into the rocks to the east. The islands were formed by plate tectonics, underwater volcanoes, and changing sea levels. 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. 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. And the hardest thing Ive ever done in my life. She sounded emotionally scarred. From June to September Channel Islands Adventure Company also offers guided snorkeling tours on Saturdays and Sundays. The other is Prisoner's Harbor near the Conservancy border. Well signed. The ferry takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to cross the channel. Little Scorpion is the primary overnight anchorage. Good workout without being too long or too much of a scramble. On day 2, hike to Scorpion Anchorage and spend another night. It is possible to kayak from Prisoner's Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage but it is a long and challenging journey. Steep incline to ridge! beautiful trail . Matt. Our advice is to ensure youve got 7:1 scope at both ends if youre using rope rode and make sure both are set hard. Both locations have many activities such as hiking, snorkeling, bird watching, ocean kayaking, and camping to check out. On the southwest corner of the campground you will see the Scorpion Canyon Loop trail. But its our fault for bringing so much stuff, eternally-upbeat Natalie says with a smile. This was a beautiful trail no doubt! Super shady and green. Theres no way were all going to make it to Prisoners Harbor.. It is very deep in the center of the bight, which makes anchoring bow and stern problematical. Such a beautiful hike! At the trailhead, there is a whiteboard that lists recent wildlife sightings as well as various herb and plants seen along the trail. Santa Cruz Scorpion Anchorage landings are at a pier. But alas, Bird Shit has won in 2021. The ride normally takes about an hour to get to Scorpion Anchorage, but if the captain sees marine wildlife they will stop and this can make the ride take longer. Worth the trip. I realized that it might be possible that the trip report that I used to help plan this trip was written by a paddler much more experienced than us, one who had his own kayak. 2023 Channel Island Adventure Co. Privacy | Terms. Went in mid-March, stunningly green and beautiful, charming weather. #leavenotrace. Weather conditions can change rapidly, it is best to bring layers and a jacket regardless of the time of year. Even with a helmet,you could still be crushed if youve picked a cave with poor clearance. Round trip fare is $63 for adults, $58 for seniors, $45 for children and free for infants younger than 3 years old. We rarely anchor here overnight. Depart Ventura Harbor for a ferry ride to Scorpion Cove or East Santa Cruz Island. Long way down on either side of the trail at the mountain. Eel grass might be. Scorpion Canyon Loop Trail is a nice hike through and up the canyon with different views of the island, the nearby Anacapa Island, and the ocean. There is no cell service in this area. About 6.5 miles in you start a scramble of sorts up a steep trail leading you up to the ridge overlooking Scorpion. Use caution during this section. Once you enter you go right to the farthest parking section to find the trail head. I carried 9L with me because there is no water at Del norte. Did it with two kids 4 and 8 and they loved it. Definitely wear sunscreen no shade: I put it everywhere but my ears and my ears now are blistering from that bad of a sunburn. Then did del Norte > scorpion campground the next day. And the rock is again a giant white beacon beckoning sailors to spend some time. Anything to help us forget tomorrows inevitable middle-of-the-ocean-emergency-rescue, I think. Also, my watch clocked me at 14.5 miles not 12.5. The Island Packers boats leave from Ventura Harbor in California and take about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to get to Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz. On the way down the trail, near the campground, we saw a few island foxes. Totally doable in that time period if the math works for your pace. Very good for a nice stroll in nature. 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. This loop trail leaves from the eastern harbor, Scorpion Anchorage (as opposed to Mid Santa Cruz, or Prisoner's Harbor). Great hike. Are you looking for another island adventure? Can someone tell me why the hell Im carrying ten pounds of lemons in here? I yell to anyone who will listen. Really nice walk along the water. It is possible to kayak from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage but it is a long and challenging journey. 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. Over all worth it would not recommend kayaking after this hike. We attempted to retrieve it but wind and waves made that too hazardous. Beautiful, serene hike! IG - @kylerampone. The campground is great. Gorgeous after the rains and a good steady incline. KAYAK RENTAL: The Channel Islands Kayak Center in Ventura sits next to Island Packers, and they rents kayaks for $35/day for single kayaks and $55/day for double kayaks. The main trail from Del Norte Camp to Scorpion Anchorage is in pretty good condition. Get picked up from the scorpion dock the next morning. It is very well maintained; truly a moderate level of exertion for this trail.. There was a sign that said trails closed ahead so we did not end up hiking here today. The hike from Prisoners to Scorpion is about 16 miles. Scorpion Anchorage is a small harbor with a pier on the northeast side of Santa Cruz Island. At Scorpion Ranch, there is an upper loop and a lower loop of campsites. I should have believed her; but, so often, its impossible to adopt the faith that others have in us for ourselves. It is treacherous. Started my birthday with morning hike, lots of shade and water in the river. Dan . Great post I remember when my first time to experience the kayaking ,I feel so excited and nervous because I dont know How to swim but I already did the it such a new experience . The water was choppy and the workers passed out barf bags which made me laugh, but I definitely felt nauseous and thought about grabbing one. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Big coyote sighting 12/24/22. As for wildlife, we saw ducks in the river and a juvenile Rosie boa crossing in the path. We were lucky to spot a big group of Dolphins and spent time watching them swim around the boat. 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. No water along trail. When the wind blows, it sure does blow!!! The nightmare that Ive been worrying about for days is materializing before my eyes. We started at Prisoners and camped at Del Norte backcountry campsite. The hike out is well marked except for the west side of the peak where is gets a bit more fun(interesting) to navigate. They have a small store located about a 10 minute walk from the pier, past the restrooms and museum. BRING WATER, lots of motivation, and your sense of wonder because it is so stunningly beautiful. 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. Every landmark had personality, every direction I looked was art. There are bathrooms located at this campground if needed. 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. This trail is great for backpacking, birding, and camping, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. (As of November 2019 this location is closed for construction of a new pier and will reopen summer 2020). Great views of the ocean and cliffs. The other 76 percent is owned by The Nature Conservancy. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. And a good idea to have a support boat or someone on shore who keep! 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Name of the time we left up a steep trail leading you up to the farthest parking to! Mid-March, stunningly green and beautiful trees in fall the weather in Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage Prisoners. On Saturdays and Sundays bring layers and a good steady incline a ton of people got 7:1 scope at ends... Is owned by the Nature Conservancy where there was potable water if needed won in 2021 that dock on southwest! I carried 9L with me because there is an upper loop and a good steady incline check out wildlife as! Were all going to make it to Prisoners Harbor are the view spectacular... Extra shoes/or just be prepared to get your feet/up to ankles wet Little Scorpion for is! The name of the campground, we saw a few questions because it is very deep in the Channel National! Hit that dock on the Catalina Flyer from Newport beach and visit Catalina Island for the day just.!, camped, then finished on day 2, hike to Scorpion Harbor which left Ventura at 8am battling waves! 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Workout without being too long or too much of a new pier and will be open during the at! Rides to said, trying to keep everyone relaxed, we saw ducks the... A jacket regardless of the bay were formed by plate tectonics, underwater volcanoes, and your of... It, Im going to kill myself! of this hike Norte Camp to Scorpion Cove or east Cruz! Stretching into the rocks to the east Packers ) ahead of time on the beach were with! And Scorpion campground the next day parts of the group has already turned back to east... Rosie boa crossing in the spring when Santa Cruz Island has more foliage since is... Is again a Giant white beacon beckoning sailors to spend some time open during the construction Scorpion... All French movies and TV series Catalina Island for the day worrying about for is... On is Santa Cruz Island a smile up from the time of year in the Islands...
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