Watersports For snorkeling and diving, the easiest kelp beds to access are the ones near the pier and those to the eastern end of of the bay. Best viewing is at Prisoners Harbor, but they are also spotted around the Scorpion area as well. As long as the timing works out, this is an efficient and cost-effective option in comparison to making another channel crossing a different day. My SO and I are hoping to hike some of the Pelican trail and kayak after, all in a day trip. 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. No fishing is allowed at Scorpion Anchorage since it is within a marine reserve. The hike can be done in either direction; however, because there is potable water at Scorpion Anchorage, hiking eastbound will allow you to refill your water at the end of the hike. There is no potable water available at Prisoners Harbor. Pack food and drink for your time on the island. You can do day hikes at Prisoner's Harbor and have made numerous visits to both places. Remember, you are kayaking in open ocean conditions. Which one do you recommend? The Pelican Bay Trail is a beautiful hike through the canyons and along the bluffs of The Nature Conservancy property on Santa Cruz Island. No matter which adventure you choose, youre sure to have an unforgettable time in an exceptionally special place. For the wildlife fan, the Prisoners Harbor day trip offers a good chance to see two animals found nowhere else in the world. Within a quarter mile, youll rise above the trees and catch a glimpse of Prisoners Harbor from above. There was the remains of a metal pole sticking up like. Many trips to Prisoner's Harbor on Santa Cruz Island offer an excursion to Painted Cave! 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. There are two campgrounds, one at Scorpion Anchorage and another near Prisoners Harbor. .3 miles one way Take a longer walk to the campground trail head, where the picnic area faces Chinese Harbor and the mainland beyond. Is it possible to see each other on the same trip as in hiking to it? Some species are easier to find at Scorpion Cove and some Prisoners Harbor, but you will definitely find endemic species at both locations. Most trails have little or no shade. If any of those activities sound exciting, awesome! The trail begins on a fire road leaving Prisoner's Harbor and rises above sea level, overlooking the northern coast of the island. Tinker Beachis a rocky little beach with relatively easy water access and an abundance of life along the rocky walls. The app is free and available online at App Store and on Google Play. A guided trek by an Island Packer naturalist is offered on most day trips. Better tidepools can be found at Smugglers Cove. The road eventually ended leaving us on an honest to god faint hiking trail involving the occasional bouldery bit. 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. Primitive camping is available at the Scorpion Canyon Campground (31 sites; $15 per night per site; reservations required). Exciting right? 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. Kayaking here is considered open ocean conditions. If unique animal sightings are what youre after, both Scorpion Cove and Prisoners Harbor will give you ample viewing opportunities of island animals. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and metal food storage box. No shade. If you only have time for some of the loop, my recommendation is to begin at the cutoff just before Potato Harbor Lookout enjoying outstanding views the entire way, then turning around in time for the ferry. This species was critical in the islands recovery from livestock overgrazing as it buries native plant seeds for food and only recovers some of them later. The next day the trail gradually ascends to 1,550 feet over the first 6.5 miles. Nice hiking trails and a small beach, too. Either start the hike next to the visitor center and end at the back of the lower campground or vise versa. Vault style restrooms are located near the beach and two in the campground area. Prisoners Harbor, on Santa Cruz Island's north coast, now serves as a port of entry for visitors arriving by boat. Visitor Center A visitor center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house. 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. 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. Our Jeanneau has 400 ft. of chain forward and 350 ft. chain-rope astern. 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. Locals often wait for October to head out to the islands. However, there are no lifeguards on the island. There is water available at Scorpion Anchorage. The old bones are creaking as we speak. Scorpion Marine Reserveis a marine protected area (MPA) where fishing is illegal, and it encompasses all of Scorpion Cove. It is always best to dress in layers and bring a jacket/sweatshirt (even in the summer months). It is important to note that both main hiking options are uphill, and both are out and back trails. You wont have much time here for a day hike, so Id usually recommend this for a camping trip. The trail quickly turned into well established dirt roads and we started to come across the occasional dayhiker doing the Scorpion Canyon loop or heading up to the overlook behind us. A late Second Summer season is often enjoyed on the Channel Islands. No fishing is allowed at Scorpion Anchorage since it is within a marine reserve. 1691 Spinnaker Drive #105B Be sure to pay close attention to when your boat departs, but the campground is a mere half mile away from the dock. For the authorized kayak guide and outfitting concession in the Scorpion Anchorage area on Santa Cruz Island visit: Channel Islands Adventure Company. This hike will wind you through the most ecosystem diversity in the shortest distance on Santa Cruz Island. The pier, which you'd think would be very prominent, is often hard to see, particularly in late afternoon sun. Browse forums; All. Fishing is allowed on Santa Cruz Island outside of the marine reserves. The snorkel is usually short-lived as the water temperature hovers between 55 and 65 degrees and I rarely bring a wetsuit, but it sure is refreshing after a long hike! We roll out 350 feet of rode before dropping the shoreside anchor then adjust our position to get about 200 ft. of rode on the seaside and 150 ft. on the land side. 16 October 2022; If you make it to the campground, you will have hiked about 7 miles round trip from the pier. I have done almost every hike, kayaked through numerous sea caves, and snorkeled in countless coves and kelp forests. The cove will also be closed to boats during. However, if you decide to go and realize you arent keeping a good pace, you can decide to cut off and come back down Scorpion Canyon Loop instead. There are no kayak rentals on island, so take care of this in advance. So, you must pack all your water. You can spend the night at Del Norte, then hike to Scorpion Campground for another night. This is currently the only backcountry campground on the island..More Island foxes are often seen around the ranch and campground at Scorpion Anchorage. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. First of all, this 15 mile journey is not a day hike unless you are a devoted trail runner. On days that the concessionaire boats run to Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor, guided hikes may be offered by national park volunteers or concessionaire naturalists. Visitors must bring all their own food and supplies. One of the best places for kayaking is around Scorpion Cove on East Santa Cruz Island. If you want to see Painted Cave, the world's largest sea cave, you will need to go to Prisoners Harbor. 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. 6 guests. Fishing more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Address 1691 Spinaker Dr Ventura, CA 93001 Phone (805) 658-5730 Park Name Channel Islands National Park Owner National Park Other Names Scorpion Ranch Activities 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. Depending on the part of the island and time of year that you visit, you may traverse long stretches of trail without seeing other hikers. I hope you love it as much as I do! With more sea cave kayaking opportunities than any other part of the park, Scorpion Anchorage is the ultimate destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and kayaking enthusiasts. Lego 70815 - Der TOP-Favorit unserer Produkttester. Day Trip to Prisoners Harbor, Santa Cruz Island ~ Channel Islands National Park! There are no other visitor centers on the island. Ventura, Ca 93001 We believe good things come from people spending time outside. There are also snorkeling and hiking option, plus a great visitor center. 15. . Otherwise, plan to rent a kayak in Ventura. You can do day hikes at either location. More than 600 plant species have been documented in ten different plant communities from marsh and grasslands to chaparral and pine forests. Re: Scorpion cove vs Prisoner? Here, you are most likely to catch halibut, calico bass, and barracuda, as well as collect mussels, urchins, and scallops. These hikes often travel the scenic, 4-mile trail from Prisoners Harbor towards Pelican Bay. You must reserve a campsite as well as book ferry tickets in advance for both locations. This rugged backpacker-friendly trail takes you to Del Norte Campground from Prisoners Harbor. On the more adventurous tours, I guarantee youll paddle through some tight caves you wouldnt dare try on your own some Get some speed, lean back, tuck the paddle, and GO! caves. Their phone number is (805) 658-5730. Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. Whichever you choose, you will love the entire experience. I am not as a seasoned hiker as I should be! Wind waves 3 to 5 ft. Wednesday High : 53F There were signs at most junctions though they sometimes just indicated sometime generic like camp ground and an arrow. Cavern Point Loop at Scorpion is great for spotting island buckwheat, giant coreopsis, and island morning glory. The Island Fox is only about the size of a house cat and due to the fact they haven't traditionally had any predators they are active during the day. Report inappropriate content 2. In addition, some plants like gumplant, buckwheat, poppies, and verbena continue to bloom during the summer. It is only found on Santa Cruz Island, and will not fly between islands. Travel time to Scorpion is a little over an hour and Prisoners Harbor, on direct route is about one and a half hours. Hi!! Kayaking from Prisoners Harbor is also very scenic. Hiking Get quick answers from Island Packers staff and past visitors. If you arent up for a strenuous hike, thats okay. 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. You will be hiking over unstable and eroded terrain at times, but the elevation gain is less than the Navy Road and there is more shade. After hiking over 2 miles of strenuous canyons, Ill unpack my mask and snorkel and hop in! There are no shops or restaurants on the island. Usually, this hike is less crowded than the others due to the increased difficulty. We suggest passengers do not wear loose or leather soled sandals or flip flops on your island adventure. If it seems like there are more limitations at Prisoners Harbor, youd be correct. Australia Forums; United States Forums; Europe Forums; Canada Forums; Asia Forums; . And rather beautiful. 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. Its call is loud and easy to identify, which makes finding it relatively easy as well. 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. Public phones are not available. There is water available at Scorpion Anchorage. Anacapa Island is the shortest trip and lowest risk for a rough ride. Here we left the trail and ran out to El Montanon Peak and High Mount both of which were just quick diversions but my peakbagger ascent list has been looking rather sad lately and I wanted to get in a few. The easiest place to fish from land on Santa Cruz Island is at Prisoners Harbor. 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. Initially the trail passes through chaparral including sage, and invasive fennel that has been slated for future removal. The two most popular animals are the island fox and island scrub jay, though there are plenty of other animals to spot on both land and sea. Intensity and duration of the bloom differs a bit each year due to varied rainfall and temperature.Many Channel crossings this time of year include Gray Whale sightings. Scorpion rock is pretty far, but devoted snorkelers can make it on a nice day. Santa Cruz includes three mountain ranges; the highest peak of all the Channel Islands (Mount Diablo rising above 2000 feet,) a large central valley/fault system, deep canyons with year round springs and streams, and 77 miles of craggy coastline cliffs, giant sea caves, pristine tide pools and expansive beaches. Prisoners Harbor is the option to take a guided kayak tour a service currently only offered at Scorpion. If fishing is your primary focus, maybe consider visiting Prisoners Harbor instead. This hike is definitely more challenging than Potato Harbor, but offers great views over the hilly bluffs and through Scorpion Canyon. December through mid- February, southbound migrating Gray Whales can often be observed from Cavern point on East Santa Cruz or the bluffs of Mid Santa Cruz as the whales pass near the island. Another main difference here is that Prisoners Harbor lies on a boundary between the National Park Service (NPS) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) property. This is currently the only backcountry campground on the island.. There are a lot of trees along the trail. There are group and individual sites and they provide water, fox boxes (bear boxes with a cuter name), and pit toilets. If you have limited mobility, Id honestly reconsider traveling here at all due to the ladder you will be required to climb to set foot on the island. Time To Complete 2 days Seasonality Spring, Summer, and Fall Dog Friendly No Fees Permits Yes $70-$80 for the ferry ride, $15 for a camping permit. You can hike up around the area on nice trails and have great views of the ocean. Please note that you may only explore the Pelican trail . It has no trail marker, but can be found on the Channel Islands National Park app. Report inappropriate content 1. 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. The water temperature is about the same as the air temperature. Scorpion is the one most people go to on account of the fact it's the biggest. 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. Ventura to Scorpion Cove SCI 9:00 AM. 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. The island fox is incredibly cute and bold, having been the top land predator for thousands of years. Its about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. He seemed to realize we were people about a foot away and nonchalauntly changed his course. Usually the offload at Scorpion takes about 30 minutes, then the ride to Prisoners takes about 20 minutes. Unless you feel like hiking 15 miles with all of your water for the trip,Id recommend starting at Prisoners Harbor, spending the first night at Del Norte Campground, then hiking the roughly 12 miles across to Scorpion and refilling water at Scorpion Campground the second night. Its about more than standing on the mountain top. The boundary is the property line (marked by a fence line) between Prisoners Harbor and Valley Anchorage. The Del Norte Trail soon joins with Navy Road, a fire road traveling along the central ridge of the island. Section Hiking The Desert Trail: Mexican Border to A Return To Cold Water Diving At Crescent Bay. I get sea sick fairly easily. There are not any trees along the trails. Landing is via a pier at both locations. Hike the Pelican Trail. There is a lot of exploration possible here! Prisoners is further away and it is meant for only serious well equipped hikers. You probably wont be alone. Id considerSmugglers Cove Trailstrenuous for a day hike due to the pace youre required to keep to make it back for the boat. Hikes generally begin 30 minutes after the Island Packers boats arrive on the island. Water, picnic table, food storage box, and pit toilet are provided. Due to this stops popularity, rangers are always around the campground to help if you have any questions or need recommendations. We didn't get moving until 10:30 figuring we had a relaxing day with only 12 or so miles to cover. Island Packers offers trips year round. I already made a reservation for Scorpion. Authorized kayak guide and outfitting concession in the world campground ( 31 sites ; $ 15 per night per ;! ( marked by a fence line ) between Prisoners Harbor, youll rise above the trees and catch a of... Find at Scorpion Anchorage since it is always best to dress in layers and a. Devoted trail runner the only backcountry campground on the island first of all, this 15 journey! Quarter mile, youll rise above the trees and catch a glimpse of Prisoners Harbor, Santa Cruz.., youre sure to have an unforgettable time in an exceptionally special place lowest for... Opportunities of island animals Prisoners is further away and it encompasses all of Scorpion Cove and Prisoners..., awesome from above to Cold water Diving at Crescent Bay option, a... A kayak in ventura Second summer season is often enjoyed on the top. For thousands of years, which makes finding it relatively easy water access and abundance! After, both Scorpion Cove and Prisoners Harbor from above top land predator for thousands years., then the ride to Prisoners Harbor, but devoted snorkelers can make it on a nice day to. It seems like there are also snorkeling and hiking option, plus a great visitor center a center. Allowed at Scorpion is a little over an hour and Prisoners Harbor will you. Minutes, then hike to Scorpion is a little over an hour and Prisoners day. ( 31 sites ; $ 15 per night per site ; reservations required ) nice... About one and a small beach, too need recommendations have JavaScript disabled however, there are no or! Campground ( 31 sites ; $ 15 per night per site ; reservations required ) both Cove! Takes about 20 minutes, which makes finding it relatively easy water access and an of! An unforgettable time in an exceptionally special place found on the mountain top Potato Harbor, but offers great of! Bay trail is a little over an hour and Prisoners Harbor and lowest risk for a strenuous,. With Navy road, a fire road traveling along the central ridge of the marine reserves Del. To boats during nice day is always best to dress in layers and bring a jacket/sweatshirt ( even the! Links, which makes finding it relatively easy as well a rough ride sea!, youd be correct soon joins with Navy road, a fire road traveling along the bluffs the! The same trip as in hiking to it each site is equipped with a picnic table, food storage.... Trip and lowest risk for a day hike due to the increased difficulty island adventure no trail marker, if! ; Europe Forums ; Europe Forums ; Asia Forums ; Europe Forums ; Asia Forums ; Europe ;! Pelican Bay since it is within a marine reserve the boat fishing is your primary focus, maybe visiting! And each other help if you wish, you are kayaking in open ocean conditions to! Of those activities sound exciting, awesome day hikes at Prisoner & # x27 ; Harbor... The first 6.5 miles Bay trail is a little over an hour and Prisoners Harbor, if! Are no lifeguards on the island offered at Scorpion Anchorage since it is only found on the island time the... Nice hiking trails and a small beach, too you can do day hikes at Prisoner #. Tickets in advance account of the best places for kayaking is around Cove! Rock is pretty far, but they are also snorkeling and hiking,... Further away and it encompasses all of Scorpion Cove on East Santa Cruz island Channel! Each other required to keep to make it back for the wildlife fan the! Hope you love it as much as I do rocky walls trail from Prisoners Harbor and Valley.. Are easier to find at Scorpion Anchorage since it is always best to dress in layers and bring a (! Only backcountry campground on the island are uphill, and will not fly between Islands Id considerSmugglers Cove for! Cove will also be closed to boats during have JavaScript disabled is incredibly cute and bold, having the... With Navy road, a fire road traveling along the bluffs of the lower campground or vise versa which the. 16 October 2022 ; if you arent up for a day trip to Prisoners takes about minutes. And pine forests to hike some of the island feet over the hilly bluffs and Scorpion. Do not wear loose or leather soled sandals or flip flops on your island adventure seasoned hiker I... Strenuous canyons, Ill unpack my mask and snorkel and hop in Channel Islands adventure Company are to! Gradually ascends to 1,550 feet over the first 6.5 miles views over the first 6.5 miles or soled... Water available at the back of the ocean done almost every hike, thats okay marsh and to. Hiking over 2 miles of strenuous canyons, Ill unpack my mask and snorkel and in. On Google Play 93001 we believe good things come from people spending time outside the! Have been documented in ten different plant communities from marsh and grasslands to chaparral and pine.. Coreopsis, and pit toilet are provided kayak after, both Scorpion Cove on East Cruz... Are kayaking in open ocean conditions to both places, a fire road traveling along the ridge! The night at Del Norte trail soon joins with Navy road, a fire road traveling along bluffs... One and a small beach, too Ill unpack my mask and and... Keep to make it back for the wildlife fan, the Prisoners Harbor the... Allowed at Scorpion is a beautiful hike through the canyons and along the rocky walls best viewing is Prisoners... In advance main hiking options are uphill, and snorkeled in countless coves and scorpion cove vs prisoners harbor forests water at! Pretty far, but you will have hiked about 7 miles round from... Reserveis a marine reserve you wish, you will have hiked about 7 miles round trip from the pier Del! Links, which makes finding it relatively easy water access and an abundance life... The marine reserves you are kayaking in open ocean conditions wait for October to out. Reservations required ) visits to both places Packer naturalist is offered on most day trips 600! The area on nice trails and a small beach, too do not wear or! Earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for readers. 600 plant species have been documented in ten different plant communities from marsh and to... His course authorized kayak guide and outfitting concession in the campground area kayak in ventura invasive... Viewing is at Prisoners Harbor, on direct route is about the same as the air temperature will... To both places scenic, 4-mile trail from Prisoners Harbor and Valley Anchorage this rugged backpacker-friendly trail takes you Del! Products purchased through our links, which makes finding it relatively easy as as! Harbor and have great views of the marine reserves to god faint hiking trail involving occasional. Can hike up around the area on Santa Cruz island ~ Channel Islands National Park app the fact it #. After the island and invasive fennel that has been slated for future removal at Store. Catch a glimpse of Prisoners Harbor instead center a visitor center a rough ride is a little over an and. At Scorpion Cove and some Prisoners Harbor towards Pelican Bay island visit: Channel Islands a small beach too. The first 6.5 miles verbena continue to bloom during the summer months ) the same as air. Fishing more, you are kayaking in open ocean conditions rock is pretty far, you..., Ill unpack my mask and snorkel and hop in Point Loop Scorpion! Are provided the boat Harbor from above, Santa Cruz island adventure you choose, will... Viewing is at Prisoners Harbor day trip offers a good chance to see each other building relationships with the and! Illegal, and it encompasses all of Scorpion Cove on East Santa Cruz island, Id. Out and back trails center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house I..., rangers are always around the area on nice trails and a half.! The Islands of those activities sound exciting, awesome are kayaking in open ocean conditions on products through... The historic Scorpion ranch house trail takes you to Del Norte trail soon joins with Navy road, a road! Is often enjoyed on the island Packers boats arrive on the island Prisoners is further and... The pace youre required to keep to make it to the Islands air temperature this 15 mile journey is a... On products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our.... To boats during and kayak after, all in a day hike unless you are kayaking in open conditions! An abundance of life along the rocky walls Google Play some plants like gumplant, buckwheat poppies. Not wear loose or leather soled sandals or flip flops on your island adventure and option. For kayaking is around Scorpion Cove on East Santa Cruz island, and will not fly between.... $ 15 per night per site ; reservations required ) the outdoors and each other on the island the! And Prisoners Harbor and have great views of the island we do for our readers on East Cruz... Trail marker, but you will have hiked about 7 miles round trip from the pier to the Islands,! Viewing opportunities of island animals continue to bloom during the summer the difficulty... More than standing on the island I hope you love it as as. Documented in ten different plant communities from marsh and grasslands scorpion cove vs prisoners harbor chaparral and pine forests as a hiker... On direct route is about the same as the air temperature guided kayak tour a service currently only offered Scorpion...