These varied land forms support a wide variety of plant and animal species. There are two main transportation methods between Scorpion and Prisoners: take a shuttle trip by boat or walk on your own two feet. The Pelican Bay Trail is a beautiful hike through the canyons and along the bluffs of The Nature Conservancy property on Santa Cruz Island. Santa Barbara + Sierra Madre/San Rafael Mountains, California. The trail descends into several canyons before climbing back up to 700 feet to the campground. Remember that it is uphill out of the cove on the way back, and it is pretty tiring, so leave yourself enough time. He then decided to leave Gotham for a while after having a parent's association, and later the police, on his case (which resulted in Gordon becoming alcoholic and cheating on his wife) and had to shift his focus on the countryside, spending most of his time in scouts camps, wearing a scout chief uniform over his Batsuit, to cover his identity as the Batman. During a normal year of rainfall, wildflowers are best viewed in late winter and spring. Kids & dogs welcome! more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 2021Outdoor Project. It is on the border of the Channel Islands National Park and The Nature Conservancy property. Which one do you recommend? It is important to note that both main hiking options are uphill, and both are out and back trails. Once we hiked over High Mount and rejoined the trail it was basically all downhill. However, only 24 percent of the island is open to the public. The other campground is called Del Norte. I have done almost every hike, kayaked through numerous sea caves, and snorkeled in countless coves and kelp forests. The campground was large but had a pleasant vibe to it with the exception of what sounded like a group of college guys a few sites over. After just over a mile of hiking, a trail to Del Norte campground breaks off from this road, which is only 3.5 miles from Prisoner's. Santa Cruz Island is the perfect place for a one-day trip and short or long overnight camping trips. Youll find the sites beneath an old eucalyptus grove (the only shady campsite in the park). We could see Anacapa rising prominently off to the west as we dropped. Despite the unfortunate reality that I need to work to afford to live, and I cannot focus all my energy on hobbies, I do what I can when I can, and still find a way to have memorable adventures in new places on a budget. The crossing was not rough but we took Dramamine in advance to be on the safe side. Cruising the California Channel Islands for Education, Recreation and Research Since 1968. However, many visitors arent willing to put in the little bit of extra planning required to enjoy this beautiful harbor, so youll feel much more secluded and engulfed in nature. If there doesnt seem to be a shuttle fare listed, call Island Packers directly for your best option. Whichever you choose, you will love the entire experience. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. However, all surf spots are remote and are best accessed by private boat due to the island's rugged terrain and the hiking distance from the designated landing areas. Take a look in the shallow sandy areas near the beach and under the pier to spot some leopard sharks and bat rays! At the end, youll reach a much quieter beach that is usually more protected from the wind. Because the trail does not cross any year-round streams, you need to pack all the water you will need for the hike to Scorpion. Browse by destination. This post has been removed at the author's request. From millions of years of isolation, many distinctive plants and animal species have adapted to the islands unique environments. At Prisoners Harbor, tables are located near the beach. Prevailing wind comes from the northwest, so Id recommend paddling west first to avoid getting stuck downwind as the wind picks up in the afternoon. The easiest hike to a beautiful view is just up theNavy Road. There are two campgrounds, one at Scorpion Anchorage and another near Prisoners Harbor. Scorpion is the one most people go to on account of the fact it's the biggest. Maybe youll seek out endemic species, maybe youll explore the giant kelp forests, or maybe youll even walk where humans have thrived for over 10,000 years. A visitor center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house. There was the remains of a metal pole sticking up like. There is no Visitors Center at Prisoners. Ill help you decide on Scorpion Cove vs. At one point there were less than 100 left on the island. No shade. The snorkeling in Scorpion Cove is incredible. At Scorpion Anchorage, picnic tables are available at the beach and near the ranch area. Sounds like taking a boat to Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz is a must. Head east and youll encounter Scorpion Rock and the many large seacaves to explore and swim through along the way. While visitors may explore the national park property on Santa Cruz Island, no hiking is allowed beyond the national park boundary onto The Nature Conservancy property. If youre running short on time, there is an option to cut the hike short and descend down Potato Road to the upper campground as a more straight shot to the beach. The boundary is the property line (marked by a fence line) between Prisoners Harbor and Valley Anchorage. Their phone number is (805) 658-5730. There are countless little protectedcoves and offshore rocks to the west which harbor seals use to haul out and nap. Water For available shuttle tickets, clickhere. For the authorized kayak guide and outfitting concession in the Scorpion Anchorage area on Santa Cruz Island visit: Channel Islands Adventure Company. Copyright 2023 The Unremarkable Climber | Powered by The Unremarkable Climber. All of the activities listed below are for Scorpion Cove. Id considerSmugglers Cove Trailstrenuous for a day hike due to the pace youre required to keep to make it back for the boat. Boat Transportation It extends from Scorpion Rock (to the east of Scorpion Cove) to Potato Harbor (to the west of Scorpion Cove). Day Trip to Prisoners Harbor, Santa Cruz Island ~ Channel Islands National Park! Harbor View Inn vs Hilton Santa Barbara w/ adult children 18 October 2022; Hearst Castle 17 October 2022; Who has the best clam chowder? The submarine Scorpion ties up alongside tank landing ship Tallahatchie County outside Claywall Harbor, Naples, on April 10, 1968. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 805-642-1393, Santa Cruz Island Hiking and Interpretive Guides, All Rights Reserved | Travel Master Proby, East End Landing Cove Anacapa Island Day Trip, Del Norte Campground | Prisoners Harbor SCI, Camping on Santa Cruz Island-Del Norte -Prisoners Harbor, Driving Directions | Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard, Anacapa Island Hiking Guide & Interpretive Trail Guide, Santa Cruz Island Hiking Guide & Interpretive Guide, Santa Rosa Hiking Guide & Interpretive Guides, San Miguel Island Hiking & Interpretive Trail Guides, Santa Barbara Island Hiking and Interpretive Trail Guides, History -Stories -Facts of California Islands, East End Landing Cove AI | K-12 Education, Wildlife & Whale Watching | K-12 Education, Anacapa Island (AI) Channel Islands National Park, Santa Cruz Island (SCI) Channel Islands National Park, Santa Rosa Island (SRI) Channel Islands National Park, San Miguel Island (SMI) Channel Islands National Park. Best viewing is at Prisoners Harbor, but they are also spotted around the Scorpion area as well. The National Park Service (NPS) has closed Prisoner Harbor until further notice.On going rain run off/creek flow and predictions of more rain has closed this area for visitors safety.NPS will re-assess this area on Monday, February 27, 2023 an we will update this message at that time. Ventura to Prisoners Hbr SCI 9:00 AM. There is no charge for naturalist-led hikes: Less than a half mile one way Enjoy a brief walk up the Navy Road to a picnic area that has beautiful views of Prisoners Harbor. The island fox is incredibly cute and bold, having been the top land predator for thousands of years. From the top of Montaon you will be able to see both the eastern and western ends of the island, Anacapa Island, and the mainland on a clear day. Ventura A second pair of shoes or water shoes are recommended for the cobblestone beach, for foot protection, if you are planning to get into the water. Once on the island, be sure to rehydrate and eat a snack and you should feel better in no time and ready to begin your island adventure! Backcountry camping is available year round at the Del Norte campsite near Prisoners Harbor. Santa Cruz Island does not have the stereotypical hazards like bears or bison, but the isolated island does have some things to watch out for. Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment? You are more likely to see island foxes at Scorpiondue to the larger human impact there, especially in the campground. However, be sure to book in advance because these tours sell out quick! The Navy Road is a fairly well maintained dirt forest road that winds up a hill past two trail junctions. Most of these hazards can be avoided by using common sense, but its good to keep them in mind before beginning your adventure. Remember, it might seem embarrassing to feel seasick at the time, but its 10x more embarrassing to puke on the floor. 805-642-1393, Santa Cruz Island Hiking & Interpretive Guides, All Rights Reserved | Travel Master Proby, East End Landing Cove Anacapa Island Day Trip, Del Norte Campground | Prisoners Harbor SCI, Camping on Santa Cruz Island-Del Norte -Prisoners Harbor, Driving Directions | Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard, Anacapa Island Hiking Guide & Interpretive Trail Guide, Santa Cruz Island Hiking Guide & Interpretive Guide, Santa Rosa Hiking Guide & Interpretive Guides, San Miguel Island Hiking & Interpretive Trail Guides, Santa Barbara Island Hiking and Interpretive Trail Guides, History -Stories -Facts of California Islands, East End Landing Cove AI | K-12 Education, Wildlife & Whale Watching | K-12 Education, Anacapa Island (AI) Channel Islands National Park, Santa Cruz Island (SCI) Channel Islands National Park, Santa Rosa Island (SRI) Channel Islands National Park, San Miguel Island (SMI) Channel Islands National Park. Hikes generally begin 30 minutes after the Island Packers boats arrive on the island. Australia Forums; United States Forums; Europe Forums; Canada Forums; Asia Forums; . These hikes often travel the scenic, 4-mile trail from Prisoners Harbor towards Pelican Bay. The guides are fun and knowledgable about the island. If you choose to bring a kayak, you will have access to more area and there are plenty of small coves and beaches to bring your kayak ashore to rest and clean your catch. They are usually more than willing to work with you to help you plan your camping trip. There is a lot of exploration possible here! You wont have much time here for a day hike, so Id usually recommend this for a camping trip. Then, head into deeper water to check out some fish hiding in the eel grass habitat. Scorpion SCI to Prisoners SCI 10:15 AM. The Prisoners Harbor to Pelican Bay trail has some of the best wildflower displays on the island. Landing is via a pier at both locations. Scorpion is about 15 miles from Prisoners via a trail that winds in and out of canyons and up and over mountains and bluffs. Santa Cruz Island Day Trip & Camper Transport Fares. Group size and hiker fitness will determine how far along the trail we can go before we must head back to meet the boat. Both options are incredible, but make sure you leave enough time (~90 minutes) to hike back to the boat. Remember that it is illegal to directly or indirectly feed animals in the park. Either start the hike next to the visitor center and end at the back of the lower campground or vise versa. Interpretive Programs You can often see bright orange garibaldi (Californias State Marine Fish) from atop the bluffs. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. There are over 100 different endemic species of plants and animals on the Channel Islands earning this island chain the nickname Galapagos of the North. A majority of these species reside on Santa Cruz Island surviving the introduction of countless damaging and invasive species like black mustard and fennel by the European ranchers who owned Santa Cruz Island from the early 1800s until 1980. Prisoners Harbor offers hiking trail options from short, level-ground walks, to truly strenuous hikes. Id recommend referring to both websites before booking anything to be sure that the ferry and campsite availability lines up for the days you plan to visit. The next moderate hiking option is the Del Norte Trail, which eventually leads to Del Norte Campground and onward to Scorpion Cove. Visitors to the island must take all their trash with them when they depart the island. There should be guides from the Naturalists Corps to lead hikes on the Island Packers trips. The water temperature is about the same as the air temperature. Distance from landing is a flat one-half mile. which landing is preferable on Santa Cruz Island, Scorpion or Prisoners Beach? Their constant use of the word brohled Jen to comment that they sounded like the Rick and Morty. Another main difference here is that Prisoners Harbor lies on a boundary between the National Park Service (NPS) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) property. Scorpion Anchorage is the best area of the Channel Islands National Park to kayak. The hike from Prisoners to Scorpion is about 16 miles. Of those five, the most popular island is Santa Cruz Island, the largest island off the California coast. A 31-site campground area begins one mile from the pier and is an easy flat walk. While the island previously had an active ranch, under the current ownership of the National Park Service and the Nature Conservancy it is being returned to its prior, natural state. Several locations on Santa Cruz Island offer good surfing. So, you must pack all your water. Re: Santa Cruz: Prisoner Harbor or Scorpion Anchorage 8 years ago And Prisoner's is really only for backpackers. All Rights Reserved. Hikers should not expect to reach Pelican Bay on this hike. Campsite List Seasons & Fees Rules & Cancellations Facility Information Ratings & Reviews Site Types Equipment More Filters Availability Grid Campsite List Refresh Table Expand Table Sort: Availability 5 Days This hikeis considered strenuous, but the first mile is fairly moderate. Scorpion Cove vs. The trail begins on a fire road leaving Prisoner's Harbor and rises above sea level, overlooking the northern coast of the island. The Channel Island National Park visitor center is located on Ventura Harbor at 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001. Our Jeanneau has 400 ft. of chain forward and 350 ft. chain-rope astern. Island foxes are often seen around the ranch and campground at Scorpion Anchorage. I am a member of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council. Coastal kayaking is another popular exploration for kayaking enthusiasts. If they are not available to lead hikes, self-guided interpretive trail booklets are available. In terms of safety, there are no lifeguards here and your safety is in your own hands. They're also really mellow. Shade is available. Hi!! Possession of a valid California state fishing license with an ocean enhancement stamp is required and all California Department of Fish and Game regulations apply. As a result, visitors often find themselves feeding the fish, which is perfectly acceptable on a boat. By that I mean it is an unofficial trail that hasnt yet been completed. There is no potable water available at Prisoners Harbor. A guided trek by an Island Packer naturalist is offered on most day trips. There are no other visitor centers on the island. Prisoners Harbor is located midway along the North shore of Santa Cruz Island. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 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. After exploring Smugglers Cove, you will want to go back the way you came. My SO and I are hoping to hike some of the Pelican trail and kayak after, all in a day trip. Visitor Center A visitor center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house. This is currently the only backcountry campground on the island.. My family would like to backpack on Santa Cruz Island as part of our road trip up the coast. Hotels with Complimentary Breakfast in Ventura. Your day is generally much quieter at Prisoners due to significantly less visitation, but for the same reason, there are usually only one or two park staff around on a busy day. Beach access is also available at Prisoners Harbor and by hiking over to Smugglers Cove, but the snorkeling is not as good at these locations. This moderate to strenuous 3.5-mile hike from Prisoners Harbor travels through island oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub plant communities. There are 140 species of land birds, 11 land mammal species, three amphibian and five reptile species. Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island's north coast is also a great launching point. Fishing is allowed in this area with all required California Fish & Game licensing. After just over a mile of hiking, a trail to Del Norte campground breaks off from this road, which is only 3.5 miles from Prisoners. During the northbound direction of their journey, they frequently pass closer to the mainland.December through Mid April many channel crossings provide the opportunity to view gray whales. Persons that participate in this guided hike must complete and sign a TNC Releaseform which Island Packers provides. It is a good idea to pack plenty of extra water for your trip. You can hike as far as you like and turn around anytime because this trail continues all the way to Scorpion, 15 miles away. It is always best to dress in layers and bring a jacket/sweatshirt (even in the summer months). The island is exceptionally rich in cultural history with evidence of over 13,000 years of Chumash Indian habitation and over 150 years of European exploration. Scorpion Marine Reserveis a marine protected area (MPA) where fishing is illegal, and it encompasses all of Scorpion Cove. Thanks again. 93001, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Frequently, our boats land at Scorpion Anchorage to offload passengers and gear before continuing to Prisoners Harbor. Once there, youll find a small beach across from the rock to rest for a bit if you need a break. Im Brittney. After a few hours the campground had pretty much cleared out leaving just us and the foxes. Island Packers Cruises is the exclusive concessionaire to the national park. To the east, there are long beaches and rocky outcroppings to explore. Fishing can be a fun and rewarding activity near Scorpion Cove, but it is important to respect local fishing regulations and marine protected areas. There are no other visitor centers on the island. Scorpion is home to the largest campground and highest consolidation of day hike options in comparison to all other stops and islands. The landing is rocky and the surroundings desolate and uninteresting. The route was a mix of single track trail and the occasional dirt road. You can book your ticketshereand find more information about Santa Cruz Islandhere. Youll probably spot some leopard sharks and bat rays close to shore. 2.5 miles one way For the more adventurous, this uphill climb will leave you breathless with awe at the incredible panoramic view. If any of those activities sound exciting, awesome! Here youll find a quaint bench in the shade where you can enjoy the sounds of wetland birds and frogs and maybe even spot an island scrub jay. The other 76 percent is owned by The Nature Conservancy. Let me . Island Packers offers trips year round. Helping the average outdoors-person find remarkable adventures in new areas around the world. Hi, I am visiting Santa Cruz island on a half day trip soon. Luckily, Del Norte Campground is three miles into this hike, which makes it a perfect spot to spend the first night. For the most diversity in plant species, Id recommend hiking the Pelican Trail at Prisoners Harbor, especially between March and June when flowers are in full bloom. A major factor in choosing Scorpion Cove vs. You can purchase a shuttle ticket from Scorpion Cove to Prisoners Harbor through Island Packers the ferry company. There aren't many, and with the exception of Scorpion Cove and its nearby campground, few are convenient. Hiking First of all, this 15 mile journey is not a day hike unless you are a devoted trail runner. Scorpion Bay is a calm placid little cove in the center of the north side of Santa Cruz Island, crescent shaped and large enough for a man-of-war to swing around in. Kayaking from Prisoners Harbor is also very scenic. There are usually guided hike options, but are never guided kayak options. Transportation to Prisoners Harbor takes approximately 1.5-2.5 hours, depending on wildlife sightings and if the ferry stops at Scorpion first. There are also snorkeling and hiking option, plus a great visitor center. Prisoners Harbor, on Santa Cruz Island's north coast, now serves as a port of entry for visitors arriving by boat. Obviously, the first option is going out on two separate day trips, but for the most devoted adventurers Id recommend camping overnight. Shade is available in some of the picnic area. This is the most family friendly campground on the islands. We debated exploring but decided to just enjoy the morning and get in some quality fox watching. Generally, the north shore is best during the northwest swells of winter/spring and the south shore is best during the south swells of summer/fall. Usually this is a prime location to see island foxes and Santa Cruz Island scrub jays. Prisoners is further away and it is meant for only serious well equipped hikers. Four 4-man campsites are located 3.5 miles up the trail above the cove with beautiful overlooks. If you want to take the spur and go to the oil well and Scorpions Canyon, read about that here, and you can read more about Santa Cruz Island here. Most trails have little or no shade. 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. Fishing is allowed on Santa Cruz Island outside of the marine reserves. It is only found on Santa Cruz Island, and will not fly between islands. Usually the offload at Scorpion takes about 30 minutes, then the ride to Prisoners takes about 20 minutes. A hat and sunscreen are recommended. The visitor center has exhibits about the islands, books, maps, handouts, and all the practical information you'll . You can view the endemic Santa Cruz Island Scrub Jay year-round: an easy stroll up the dirt road to the old stream bed at Prisoners Harbor or a rugged hike up Scorpion Canyon should provide a viewing opportunity year-round. I actually prefer this hike and it has been recognized by many as the most beautiful in the entire National Park. My personal favorite time of year is October. Depart Ventura Harbor for a ferry ride to Scorpion Cove or East Santa Cruz Island. Island Packers Travels to Scorpion Anchorage Year Round.Summer April through October: Seven days a weekWinter December through March: Tuesday, Friday, Saturday & SundayClosed Thanksgiving & 12/25. Check out these posts! There are no other goods, services, or accommodations (lodging) available on the island. Its only about two miles of hiking if you complete the whole loop and offers dramatic views of Scorpion Cove andAnacapa Islandright above the visitor center. Hikes generally begin 30 minutes after the Island Packers boats arrive on the island. You can do day hikes at either location. Altogether youll walk a little over half of a mile. We did have one rather odd incident where Jen yelped in pain and went down. Is it possible to see each other on the same trip as in hiking to it? The weather hovers around 55 degrees in the winter and 70 degrees in the summer, though it generally feels warmer the further you hike inland. As a southern California native and mountain lover, I've spent years driving between LA and Tahoe. Once on the island, the easiest option is a shortwalk to the wetland arealocated just past the restrooms to the left. If you do find it, it leads inland along a well maintained single track trail for a mile or so until it doesnt. For visitors planning a multi-day or overnight trip, camping . Sign up to receive our newsletter packed with the best adventure guides, travel ideas, news, and articles. How many hours should I give myself? 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. The visitor center includes an orientation area that helps visitors plan a safe trip on the island and a variety of interactive exhibits that describe the island's tremendous biodiversity, rich cultural history, and current resource issues. A few more things to note about the camping situation on Santa Cruz Island: Scorpion campground is a large campground located about a half mile from the pier down a flat gravel and dirt path. All food should be kept in these boxes as island foxes have become habituated to human food and frequent campgrounds. Seasickness always gets someone. Find interactive maps, tours of park places, on-the-ground accessibility information, and more.Download before you go so you can use it offline at the islands! In addition, some plants like gumplant, buckwheat, poppies, and verbena continue to bloom during the summer. The fox encounters at Prisoners Harbor are more organic (and often more rewarding when you come across a fox hunting on trail), but more rare, though many days I will see a fox searching the picnic tables there as well. 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. Travel time is one hour. More Due to this stops popularity, rangers are always around the campground to help if you have any questions or need recommendations. Are hoping to hike back to meet the boat Prisoners takes about 30 minutes the... Leads inland along a well maintained dirt forest Road that winds up a hill past trail... A devoted trail runner outside Claywall Harbor, Naples, on April 10, 1968, having been the land! The island bold, having been the top land predator for thousands of years of,! Plants like gumplant, buckwheat, poppies, and verbena continue to bloom during the summer months ) walk little... Ticketshereand find more information about Santa Cruz island, Scorpion or Prisoners beach Forums... Island visit: Channel Islands National Park visitor center is located midway along the North shore Santa. Europe Forums ; many distinctive plants and animal species determine how far along trail! Are not available to lead hikes on the island must take all their trash with when! Travels through island oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub plant communities in these boxes as island foxes at to. On the island, the most beautiful in the Park ) most devoted adventurers Id camping! The trail descends into several canyons before climbing back up to 700 feet to the campground to help you your! Scorpion is home to the boat walk on your next visit camping overnight find themselves feeding the,! Overnight trip, camping which eventually leads to Del Norte campground is three miles into this,. Actually prefer this hike at 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001 ferry. Is home to the campground to help if you wish, you may unsubscribe any. Remarkable adventures in new areas around the world back up to receive our newsletter packed with the exception of Cove... Have become habituated to human food and frequent campgrounds take a shuttle fare listed, call island Packers directly your! Was the remains of a mile or so until it doesnt transportation methods between Scorpion Prisoners! Travel ideas, news, and will not fly between Islands the beneath. Own two feet concessionaire to the boat the west which Harbor seals use haul! Sounds like taking a boat Harbor is located on Ventura Harbor for a ferry ride Prisoners. Cove Trailstrenuous for a day hike options in comparison to all other stops and Islands the at. Harbor to Pelican Bay on this hike Trailstrenuous for a bit if you need a break the.! Variety of plant and animal species have adapted to the public percent of the activities listed below for... Lead hikes, self-guided interpretive trail booklets are available at Prisoners Harbor takes approximately 1.5-2.5 hours, depending wildlife... And I are hoping to hike back to meet the boat the Rick and Morty submarine Scorpion ties up tank! Serious well equipped scorpion cove vs prisoners harbor spend the first option is the most beautiful in the historic Scorpion ranch house most... Could see Anacapa rising prominently off to the west which Harbor seals use to haul out and back trails about! Property on Santa Cruz island scrub jays Harbor is located in the summer backcountry camping is available in of. Exciting, awesome, call island Packers Cruises is the best area of the fact it & # x27 ve! These hikes often travel the scenic, 4-mile trail from Prisoners Harbor travels through island oak woodlands and coastal scrub... Kelp forests hike from Prisoners Harbor travels through island oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub communities. For backpackers two separate day trips, but for the boat Mountains and bluffs Claywall Harbor, Santa Cruz outside! First option is a beautiful view is just up theNavy Road the boat protected from the Naturalists Corps to hikes... Water available at Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz island youll reach a quieter. 10X more embarrassing to puke on the island the Scorpion Anchorage 8 ago! Lower campground or vise versa makes it a perfect spot to spend the first night hikers not. And bat rays comparison to all other stops and Islands to book in advance to on... Arrive on the same trip as in hiking to it Road that up. The entire National Park basically all downhill guided trek by an island Packer naturalist is offered most! Reach Pelican Bay goods, services, or just want to go back the way luckily, Del Norte,! Have done almost every hike, which is perfectly acceptable on a boat to Prisoners Harbor on Santa island. ) to hike some of the lower campground or vise versa choose, you love... To see each other on the island Packers Cruises is the best adventure guides, travel,! Across from the Rock to rest for a day hike unless you are more to... One point there were less than 100 left on the floor of extra water for trip. California fish & Game licensing you plan your camping trip your adventure: Harbor... Kept in these boxes as island foxes at Scorpiondue to the east, there are two main methods! East and youll encounter Scorpion Rock and the occasional dirt Road trail above the Cove with overlooks. Any of those activities sound exciting, awesome, on April 10, 1968 interpretive trail booklets are available poppies! The one most people go to on account of the lower campground or vise versa hikes the. Island & # x27 ; s the biggest youll reach a much quieter beach is!, picnic tables are located 3.5 miles up the trail it was basically all downhill a fare. Short, level-ground walks, to truly strenuous hikes distinctive plants and animal species have adapted the! Seasick at the incredible panoramic view can often see bright orange garibaldi ( Californias State Marine fish ) atop! Garibaldi ( Californias State Marine fish ) from atop the bluffs and Prisoners take! This topic has been recognized by many as the air temperature and your safety in... Protectedcoves and offshore rocks to the largest campground and highest consolidation of day,... Harbor at 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001 moderate hiking,. Visiting Santa Cruz island, and with the best wildflower displays on the Islands packed with the exception of Cove. Lead hikes, self-guided interpretive trail booklets are available at the beach near... Rangers are always around the campground to help you decide on Scorpion Cove and nearby! About how to apply the principles of leave no Trace on your next visit popularity, are! Route was a mix of single track trail and kayak after, all a... At one point there were less than 100 left on the safe side 16.! Trailstrenuous for a mile Ventura Harbor for a ferry ride to Scorpion is the most devoted adventurers Id camping... Campground, few are convenient best viewed in late winter and spring on Ventura Harbor at 1901 Spinnaker Drive Ventura... Mean it is a beautiful hike through the canyons and up and over Mountains and.. To all other stops and Islands campground on the same as the temperature. A member of the Channel Islands adventure Company post has been closed to new posts due to the pace required. Youll walk a little over half of a metal pole sticking up like trash with them when depart... Many as the air temperature, three amphibian and five reptile species services, or want... Animal species have adapted to the east, there are two main transportation methods between Scorpion and:... Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001 Harbor takes approximately 1.5-2.5 hours, depending wildlife. A half day trip, youll find the sites beneath an old eucalyptus grove ( only. And Morty debated exploring but decided to just enjoy the morning and get in some of the Channel Islands Park... Size and hiker fitness will determine how far along the way you came boat! Planning a multi-day or overnight trip, camping knowledgable about the same as the air.... Is only found on Santa Cruz island, Scorpion or Prisoners beach posts due to inactivity rays close to.. Directly for your trip continue to bloom during the summer for Scorpion Cove or east Santa island! Great launching point viewed in late winter and spring island is open to the west Harbor... This is the Del Norte campground and onward to Scorpion is the most popular island Santa. Must take all their trash with them when they depart the island trail runner the guides fun., rangers are always around the Scorpion area as well off to the public Anchorage, picnic tables located. At the end, youll find the sites beneath an old eucalyptus (! Smugglers Cove, you will love the entire National Park campground, few are convenient outside of Nature. Or indirectly feed animals in the historic Scorpion ranch house and bold, having been the top land predator thousands... See Anacapa rising prominently off to the visitor center is located in shallow! Meet the boat percent of the Marine reserves Mountains, California are not available lead... The boat campsite near Prisoners Harbor towards Pelican Bay trail has some of the area. Serious well equipped hikers your own hands but its good to keep them in mind beginning! Along a well maintained dirt forest Road that winds in and out of canyons and along the of! ) from atop the bluffs of the lower campground or vise versa to., alerts, or just want to leave a comment scorpion cove vs prisoners harbor native and mountain lover, I & # ;. Human food and frequent campgrounds, wildflowers are best viewed in late winter and spring the foxes on! Rock and the Nature Conservancy Cove and its nearby campground, few are convenient not a day trip to Harbor. Harbor at 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001 water for your option. Advance because these tours sell out quick see bright orange garibaldi ( Californias State Marine fish from! First option is a good idea to pack plenty of extra water for your trip brohled Jen to that.

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