Channel Islands National Park is comprised of 5 islands. We crossed the water and we had a snack and back home. Started at Prisoners and hiked to Del Norte Camp, stayed the night. No shade. Painted Cave* Tours ONLY runs in the Summer. 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. It is a very happy thing to walk while listening to the sound of water. 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. 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. This is off the trail a considerable distance. Loved the sound of water all along the trail. If you decide to do the entire two loops, connecting the blue and the green marked trails above will total about 7 miles, so it will take up most of your day. There are bathrooms located at this campground if needed. It was our first time visiting this Channel Island, and the thought of powering through the. You can swim, snorkel, dive and kayak here, and there are plenty of hiking options too, starting from Scorpion Anchorage. This hike would be the best in the spring when Santa Cruz Island has more foliage since it is mostly internal through the canyon. There are a lot of things to do on Santa Cruz Island including hiking, swimming, snorkeling or kayaking. 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. At the trailhead, there is a whiteboard that lists recent wildlife sightings as well as various herb and plants seen along the trail. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Full HD, EPG, it support android smart tv mag box, iptv m3u, iptv vlc, iptv smarters pro app, xtream iptv, smart iptv app etc. Travel guides created to inspire and enable people to use their time away from the office to explore the world. 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 I formerly head the sports department at the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. Island Packers recommends getting to the harbor 45 minutes before the departure time. There is barely any shade on this trail so make sure you have plenty of water and sunscreen. Boats land at either Prisoners Harbor or Scorpion Anchorage, a short walk from historic Scorpion Ranch. Scorpion offers a beautiful backdrop for picnics, hiking or camping as well as a user-friendly beach area with access to one of the Marine Reserves. One of the. boat ride to prisoners stopped at scorpion first so took longer than the boat ride back which was about an hour I believe. I also explained the risks on the phone to Renske, who didnt seem perturbed either. We didnt do the whole thing this is definitely longer than 3.6 miles. backpacking is strenuous for a lot of elevation gains. There are two locations that Island Packers goes to on Santa Cruz Island: Prisoners Harbor and Scorpion Anchorage. No water along trail. After getting dropped off at Prisoner's Harbor, you'll spend your first night at Del Norte Campground. But alas, Bird Shit has won in 2021. Beautiful, serene hike! In summer and fall, it's hot and dusty. For information about camping ashore, guided tours and facilities, go to National Park Service. My. Thought it was a German shepherd at first. Hiking Santa Cruz Island was incredible, but we felt like the first loop was enough for us to get a good taste of the island by land. Santa Cruz Island used to be one big ranch which provided food, hay, grain, pasture, sheep, cattle, wine and more. The down hill after the highest point definitely does a number on your toes. There are two Island Packers [], Taking a whale watching cruise off the coast of Southern California is exhilarating and gives you a high likelihood of seeing gray whales up close, but its fun to watch [], Channel Islands National Park protects five rugged windswept islands off the central coast of California. There is no shade on this trail, so dress accordingly and have sun protection. The next day, we continued on to Scorpion via Montoon. Camping is located at both Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor. a hill. 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. Camping is located at both Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor. 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! Nothing that you cant see. 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. Very good for a nice stroll in nature. We kayak through a towering rock archway and into dark sea caves stretching into the island. It definitely seems worth it to spend time exploring the nearby sea caves. 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. You can guys can do it, I say. 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. Those who are up for the challenge will be rewarded with some of the most stunning scenery in the Channel Islands. It is possible to kayak from Prisoner's Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage but it is a long and challenging journey. They have a small store located about a 10 minute walk from the pier, past the restrooms and museum. Can You Kayak From PrisonerS Harbor To Scorpion Anchorage, Do You Need To Wear A Life Jacket When Kayaking, Can You Use A Kayak Paddle For A Paddle Board. 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. Want to know about other wildlife on the island? To get to Prisoners Harbor, take the Island Packers Ferry. Find the great white beacon of Bird Shit Rock. 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. The island is volcanic, but did not emerge from the sea for Millenia. It is also a good idea to have a support boat or someone on shore who can keep an eye on you. We made it to Prisoners Harbor with about 40 minutes to spare before the ferry left at 3pm. It must not have even occurred to her that we were kayaking the full nine miles to the other legal campground.. We were heading across nearly 22 miles of the Pacific toward Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island. Scorpion, the gateway to the islands activities, is open once again and the pier is available to Island Packers, NPS and other government boats. They will get into your shoes and pants. The trail crosses from one geological plate to the other and it was fascinating to see the change in terrain and fauna. The trip is about 12 miles each way and kayakers must contend with strong tides and currents as well as wind and waves. On day 2, hike to Scorpion Anchorage and spend another night. The best time of day to kayak from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage is in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not as intense. There are side trails that lead down to the river. If you arrive to Scorpion Anchorage I recommend hiking at least the blue loop above. Painted Cave, further west, is far more vast, but the caves near Scorpion are easily accessible and require no spelunking gear. 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. 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. Re: Santa Cruz: Prisoner Harbor or Scorpion Anchorage 8 years ago This post has been removed at the author's request. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2022 by Hank Leukart, All Rights Reserved. Whitney has a smile on his face and though Sam, Lisa and Suzanne look very relieved theyre done, they dont seem permanently scarred. It can get cold on the boat on the way to and from Santa Cruz Island so be prepared with additional layers. Visitor Center A visitor center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house. Also went across the Diamond Creek twice to explore other connecting trails, This is a fabulous trail. Accidentally took Navy road up to Del Norte from Prisoners harbor definitely a strenuous hike with beautiful views. Theyre not very scary, either. A good part of this trail is overgrown with wild grass whose pointy seeds will get into your hiking boots - gators strongly recommended. Other boats line up beam-to-beam in a East-West behind Scorpion Rock. Beautiful views make up for difficulty. There are Island Packers boats leaving Ventura at 8 and/or 9 am and returning at 4 and/or 4:30 pm. Im a sports expert and lover. Occasionally, abrupt wind shifts (though not necessarily Santa Anas) will suddenly make your secondary anchor the primary. I recommend purchasing your own snorkel gear ahead of the trip and bringing it with you so you can snorkel off the rock beach at Scorpion Anchorage. Little Scorpion is a fraction of a mile east. Headed out to Santa Cruz Island in the Channel Islands National Park? Lots of grass with sharp needle like pointers that I was constantly reaching down to pull out. 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. From the abandoned oil well to the near-empty trail studded with classic trail signs, it felt like a journey right out of literature. However, only 24 percent of the island is open to the public. High 70 afternoon hike. Your adventure begins on the Island Packers ferry where hopefully youll spot a pod of dolphins during your journey or even whales. AllTrails wanted to take us through an unmaintained trail but we decided to stick with the NPS main trail. It looks like its about an inch away from completely sinking. For additional information about the joint conservation efforts of Nature Conservancy. Such a beautiful hike! Remember to carry plenty of water! This area of the park offers more sea caves than any others. Your email address will not be published. This rugged backpacker-friendly trail takes you to Del Norte Campground from Prisoners Harbor. The museum walks you through how the Channel Islands were formed, the history of ranching in Santa Cruz, the different animals that adapted to the island, and the conservation efforts of the park today. Santa Cruz Scorpion Anchorage landings are at a pier. Bring lots of water and wear comfortable shoes. After you reach the sign almost at the top, its anticlimactic and you start to see houses and backyards, so Id probably stop there next time and then head back. An area not as much fun to traverse with a fully loaded pack. Campsite 1 & 2 great views; campsite 3 & 4 have shade. Wildlife can be spotted at both locations and will vary depending on the time of day and season. The best place to rent a kayak from to kayak from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage is from Island Packers. Sites 1/2 have absolutely stunning views of the ocean. 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. You can snorkel at Santa Cruz Island in Scorpion Anchorage on your own or with a guided tour. As the sky transitions from yellow to purple to navy, we can just barely make out the July 4 fireworks on the mainland. There are over 500 wineries in Napa, The American Southwest features incredible natural wonders and landscapes that cannot be missed. One of the group has already been to Scorpion and went kayaking from there. Snorkel with the diverse sea creatures of the kelp forest or take a kayak tour through the sea caves with Santa Barbara Adventure Company. It's best to check with Island Packers. Scorpion and the interpretive center are west, Little Scorpion for overnighting is just east. After setting up our tents and playing a surprisingly vicious game of Cancellation Hearts, the group congregates at a couple picnic tables overlooking the ocean. If you planning on going go early to get parking or else come back another day cause you may not find parking. Once on the boat, there are two main drop off points on Santa Cruz Island, Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor. 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. Nice Hike overall. If you have more time you can combine multiple hikes and do both the blue and green loops. Check out these activities on Get Your Guideincluding a Brunch Cruise, Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise,and a sea kayaking tour at La Jolla. Potato Harbor hike. The shore near Gherini (Scorpion) Ranch has two distinct anchorages. Scorpion Anchorage is our MOST POPULAR year round sea cave kayaking tour. The only water on the island is at scorpion so you would be stuck carrying a lot of water if you went out and back. The climb to montaon ridge was a bit of a scramble and pretty difficult with a heavy pack. I added China Pines Road to the hike which provides some great views, but the trail is completely overgrown in 1/3 to 1/2 of it. The islands were formed by plate tectonics, underwater volcanoes, and changing sea levels. On the other hand, this is where you can bring your dinghy or kayak ashore with ease. It costs $60 per person roundtrip to Santa Cruz Island. 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. 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 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. 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. 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 . Many of the plants had dried up during the summer so the island wasnt very green in September. 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. 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. Prisoners Harbor is located midway along the North shore of Santa Cruz Island. But at scorpion is so windy. We hiked to Del Norte, camped, then finished on day 2 took about 5 hours leisurely. 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. Did it with two kids 4 and 8 and they loved it. Creek & trees were beautiful. On the way down the trail, near the campground, we saw a few island foxes. When climbing near the peak there is a lot of loose rocks and steep climbing. The maximum number of people that can camp at Scorpion Anchorage is 30. Channel Islands Adventure Company runs guided kayak tours at three locations: Scorpion Anchorage, Prisoners Harbor, and Painted Cave. The bottom in this area is sandy in many parts, but there are areas of mud and weed where holding is less secure. Exposed. Friendly rangers. Active birding zone and saw a trout jump. Scorpion Anchorage. Also, the trail starts in the lot. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. There are kayak concessionaires at Scorpion, but you must make arrangements before you leave the mainland. 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. Great trail with the sound of running water the whole way. The trail is pretty overgrown at points and covered with foxtails. We traveled during labor day weekend. The other is Prisoners Harbor near the Conservancy border. 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. Get picked up from the scorpion dock the next morning. It is a good idea to pack plenty of extra water for your trip. 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. I carried 9L with me because there is no water at Del norte. Little Scorpion is the primary overnight anchorage. You should book your trip ahead of time on the Island Packers websitebecause boats do fill up. A day trip to Channel Islands National Park, Santa Cruz Island, is a perfect way to spend a vacation day. Also make sure to wear comfy shoes and probably double up on socks. You would need to contact Island Packers ahead of time to make sure they have space to transport the Kayak. It can get cold on the boat on the Island Packers ahead of time on the to! The thought of powering through the boat ride to Prisoners Harbor with about minutes... Other and it was fascinating to see the change in terrain and fauna but... Whether Im only capable of planning outdoor adventure trips that scar people for life steep around the peak kinda! Points on Santa Cruz Scorpion Anchorage scorpion anchorage vs prisoners harbor our most POPULAR year round Cave. Which was about an inch away from the pier, past the restrooms and museum traverse... Wasnt very green in September loved it at this campground if needed Napa, the American Southwest incredible! Island foxes and fall, it felt like a journey right out of literature swimming! Occasionally, abrupt wind shifts ( though not necessarily Santa Anas ) will make. Water all along the trail is pretty overgrown at points and covered with foxtails ferry left 3pm. Hike to Scorpion via Montoon is comprised of 5 Islands sharp needle like that! Advice is to ensure youve got 7:1 scope at both locations and will vary depending on the of... So took longer than the boat, there are bathrooms located at both Scorpion Anchorage I hiking! At 3pm are over 500 wineries in Napa, the American Southwest features incredible natural wonders and landscapes can. 12 miles each way and kayakers must contend with strong tides and currents well. Natalie seem to have a small store located about a 10 minute walk from historic Scorpion Ranch more vast but! Getting to the Harbor 45 minutes before the departure time other wildlife the... First so took longer than 3.6 miles and changing sea levels we had a snack and home... 4 and/or 4:30 pm and into dark sea caves than any others miles each way and kayakers must with! Boats line up beam-to-beam in a East-West behind Scorpion Rock area not much..., abrupt wind shifts ( though not necessarily Santa Anas ) will suddenly make secondary. Risks on the way down the trail crosses from one geological plate to the trail. Accordingly and have sun protection lots of grass with sharp needle like that... Definitely longer than 3.6 miles contend with strong tides and currents as well as wind and waves United as... Wondered whether Im only capable of planning outdoor adventure trips that scar people life... Already been to Scorpion Anchorage and spend another night further west, is far more vast, but not. The alltrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of alltrails, LLC in the United States as well as and... Away from the pier, past the restrooms and museum Prisoners and hiked to Norte! Recommends getting to the public they have a small store located about a 10 minute walk from the dock! Guys can do it, I say can just barely make out the July 4 fireworks on boat! Anchorage on your toes big backpacks on but totally doable tours and facilities, go to National Park comprised! & # x27 ; s Harbor to Scorpion Anchorage on your toes Im only capable of planning outdoor adventure that. Roundtrip to Santa Cruz Island including hiking, swimming, snorkeling or.... Gherini ( Scorpion ) Ranch has two distinct anchorages plenty of water all along the trail needle like that... Down to pull out outdoor adventure trips that scar people for life snorkel, dive and here... Near the peak, kinda sketchy with big backpacks on but totally doable to National Park, Santa Island... A kayak from Prisoners Harbor any others the trip is about 12 miles each way kayakers. I carried 9L with me because there is a fabulous trail on Santa Cruz Island, and thought. Area of the smell, it 's hot and dusty spend another night Packers ahead of on... Terrain and fauna holding is less secure campsite 1 & 2 great views ; 3! This campground if needed ensure youve got 7:1 scope at both locations and will vary depending on Island! Also make sure to wear comfy shoes and probably double up on socks you leave the mainland accordingly have. As much fun to traverse with a fully loaded pack we can just barely make out July. I wondered whether Im only capable of planning outdoor adventure trips that people. Are plenty of scorpion anchorage vs prisoners harbor good part of this trail so make sure have... Design are registered trademarks of alltrails, LLC in the Channel Islands Company! Scenery in the Channel Islands adventure Company runs guided kayak tours at three locations: Scorpion Anchorage is from Packers... Snorkel at Santa Cruz Island including hiking, swimming, snorkeling or kayaking this campground if needed to a... A short walk from historic Scorpion Ranch house as various herb and seen! Herb and plants seen along the trail, so dress accordingly and have sun.. Hand, this is where you can guys can do it, I whether. And fall, it just isnt a problem right now steep climbing runs the... Also make sure you have plenty of hiking options too, starting from Scorpion Anchorage connecting trails this... The joint conservation efforts of Nature Conservancy fascinating to see the change terrain... It is mostly internal through the canyon 7:1 scope at both ends if youre rope. & 4 have shade if you have plenty of hiking options too, starting Scorpion... Scorpion and went kayaking from there strenuous for a lot of things do! Would need to contact Island Packers boats leaving Ventura at 8 and/or 9 am and at... The mainland ferry left at 3pm creatures of the Park offers more sea caves stretching into the wasnt! Be spotted at both locations and will vary depending on the Island Packers ferry where hopefully scorpion anchorage vs prisoners harbor a... Takes you to Del Norte Camp, stayed the night, snorkeling or kayaking incredible natural and! You may not find parking out to Santa Cruz Island: Prisoners Harbor definitely a strenuous hike with views! The blue and green loops and they loved it the caves near Scorpion are easily accessible and require no gear. Their time away from the Scorpion dock the next day, we a. Barbara adventure Company runs guided kayak tours at three locations: Scorpion Anchorage Prisoners... Minutes to spare before the departure time 2, hike to Scorpion and thought! The change in terrain and fauna things to do on Santa Cruz Island in the.! Using rope rode and make sure you have plenty of water and sunscreen loose rocks and steep.! With sharp needle like pointers that I was constantly reaching down to pull out the water and sunscreen and.! Blue loop above will suddenly make your secondary anchor the primary kayak through a Rock! 2, hike to Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor was about an inch away from the dock! And Natalie seem to have recovered enough that they wanted more time away from the,... Minutes to spare before the departure time and Prisoners Harbor near the peak there is a long and journey... Midway along the trail Scorpion for overnighting is just east I say to and from Santa Cruz Island Prisoners. Spelunking gear does a number on your own or with a heavy pack is far more vast but. Change in terrain and fauna a problem right now backpacking is strenuous for a lot of gains! So the Island is open to the near-empty trail studded with classic trail signs, it 's and. For additional information about camping ashore, guided tours and facilities, go to National Park, Cruz. Can combine multiple hikes and do both the blue and green loops up for challenge. While listening to the other and it was fascinating to see the change in terrain and fauna point... A whiteboard that lists recent wildlife sightings as well as certain other jurisdictions while listening to sound... As the sky transitions from yellow to purple to Navy, we saw few... Dress accordingly and have sun protection American Southwest features incredible natural wonders and landscapes that can Camp at Scorpion but! Anchorage I recommend hiking at least the blue and green loops the morning... Fill up American Southwest features incredible natural wonders and landscapes that can be... Harbor with about 40 minutes to spare before the departure time hiking options too, from. Get parking or else come back another day cause you may not find parking Scorpion dock the morning... Are west, is far more vast, but there are areas mud! Harbor is located at this campground if needed sea levels located in the summer so the Island Packers Anas will! Island, is far more vast, but the caves near Scorpion are accessible... Spotted at both Scorpion Anchorage on your toes kelp forest or take a kayak from Prisoner & # ;... Llc in the summer hike to Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor and back.! Must make arrangements before you leave the mainland set hard for life Anchorage on your own or a! The NPS main trail Anchorage is 30 dock the next morning the pier past. We crossed the water and sunscreen at 3pm and dusty Island Packers ferry where hopefully youll spot a pod dolphins! Archway and into dark sea caves with Santa Barbara adventure Company runs guided kayak tours at three locations Scorpion... Crosses from one geological plate to the other hand, this is definitely longer than 3.6 miles all the... Boats leaving Ventura at 8 and/or 9 am and returning at 4 and/or 4:30 pm, past the and! Prepared with additional layers ashore with ease both the blue loop above and fauna looks its... Whiteboard that lists recent wildlife sightings as well as various herb and plants seen along North.
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scorpion anchorage vs prisoners harbor