While we have visited many National Parks in the U.S., nothing quite compares to the coastal views of backpacking the Channel Islands. Santa Cruz island is completely undeveloped, beaming with wildlife, dense grass fields, vibrant wildflowers, and endless ocean vistas. This one night backpacking trip is very moderate and easily accessible to anyone, regardless of your experience with backpacking!
Which island to visit?
Santa Cruz island is the biggest of the islands, and is the best option for backpacking the Channel Islands. There are two campsites on the island; Scorpion Canyon and Del Norte. Scorpion is easily accessible and has 25 campsites, while Del Norte is the only backcountry campground with only 4 campsites. Because of the exclusivity, Del Norte provides a true remote experience with breathtaking ocean views! We chose to complete this backpacking trip in 2 days, with one night at Del Norte. Some people decide to spend an additional night at Scorpion campground before returning back to the mainland, but we were pleased with our decision to stay just for the one night. While Scorpion is nice, it seemed very overcrowded and completely different to the solitude we experienced at Del Norte.
When to visit
We visited the Channel Islands in April and are convinced that the spring time is the best season to witness the lush green fields and spring flowers in full bloom. There is not much shade coverage on the island either, so visiting in cooler months is ideal.
Backpacking the Channel Islands Itinerary
2 days and 1 night: 17 miles
Day 1
On the first day, we took the 9am ferry leaving Ventura to Prisoner’s Harbor, arriving on Santa Cruz island around 11am. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours and typically involves many dolphin and wale watching sitings! The hike from Prisoner’s Harbor to Del Norte campground is only 3 miles, so we decided to spend the day exploring before heading to the campsite.
From the ferry drop off, we did a 4.3 mile out and back trail to Pelican Bay. Since this route is a part of Nature Conservancy Land, it is required to be accompanied by Island Packers staff. This trail weaved in and out of dense green hills and ended at a secluded blue lagoon and pebbled beach. This was a perfect way to start off our trip!
Upon returning back to Prisoner’s Harbor, we began our ascent up to Del Norte Campground. While only 3 miles, it is a bit of a steep climb. Once we got to the campsite we were surprised to find it was just us and one other group with the views of the Pacific Ocean all to ourselves!
There are four campsites at Del Norte. Camp site 1 and 2 have prime spots with ocean views, whereas site 3 and 4 are tucked away under the trees. We had campsite number 2 and absolutely cherished the vista. The campsites each have a picnic table, storage bins and an area to set up a tent. There is a pit toilet, but it is recommended to bring your own toilet paper. It is important to note that there is no potable water source at the campsite, so hikers must bring their own water. It is absolutely important to plan ahead so you do not run out of water.
Day 2
The next day we enjoyed the sunrise from tent over the Pacific Ocean. After breakfast, we packed up and started the journey across the island towards Scorpion Anchorage, which is about 10 miles. This trek is breathtaking, with 360 ocean views the entire way. We felt very secluded on the trail and only passed by two other groups hiking. The highest point of the trail culminates at Montana where we veered left to follow the Montana ridgeline trail. This part of the trail takes you there flower fields and along the cliffside. Here, it connects to Scorpion Canyon Loop Trail, which is one of the most common day hikes on the island. It eventually meets up with Scorpion campground, where there is plenty of potable water. Then it was time to catch the ferry back to Ventura.
How to get to Santa Cruz Island
The only way to get to Santa Cruz island is by taking the Island Packers Ferry. The camper transport fares are $88 per person roundtrip. It is important to book this ferry in advance because they do sell out. Sometimes these ferry trips can be delayed or canceled due to high winds and choppy waters, so be sure to keep an eye out for any schedule changes.
When booking the ferry, the first one way is Ventura to Prisoner’s harbor, and then returning from Scorpion Anchorage back to Ventura.
How to secure a permit
Permits for overnight camping in order to go backpacking on the Channel Islands are reserved on Recretion.gov website. Because there are only 4 campsites at Del Norte, it can be challenging to land a permit, but there are often cancellations so be sure to refresh the website often.
Important tips for backpacking the Channel Islands
- There is no potable water at Del Norte campsite. It is important to plan the amount of water to bring. There is potable water once you arrive at Scorpion Campsite; therefore, for our itinerary, we just needed enough water for 1 night and 1.5 days of hiking.
- Be mindful of the island foxes. The Channel Islands are known for their cute little foxes that scurry around, but be aware that they are not afraid to steal your food. Locking all food, food waste, and fragrance items away in the storage bins, is very important.
- There is not much shade coverage on the island. We recommend visiting in the cooler months, as well as packing hats and plenty of sunscreen.
Ventura recommendations
Once returning to the mainland, it is time to hop in the car and celebrate at one of the many breweries Ventura is famous for. We went to Bright Spark for their phenomenal pizza which makes for a perfect end to a weekend of activity!
Breweries:
– Bright Spark Brewery
– Topo Topo Brewery
– Madwest Brewery
Coffee:
– Prospect Coffee
– Singing Suns Coffee
Breakfast/lunch:
– Frontside Cafe
Follow along our All Trails map here.
