Hiking at the Channel Islands National Park

We know you’ve heard this before — about any and all manner of things (cars, hamburgers, insurance policies) but a single day of hiking on any one of the Channel Islands might change your life. And (as a great place to start) a day trip out to the islands — whether it be Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, Anacapa, or San Miguel — is a great way to get the best out of the Park’s untouched wilderness without committing to the logistics (though they are worth it!) of an overnight camping stay. Also good to note that the easiest-to-reach hiking is on Anacapa and Santa Cruz’ a little over an hour boat ride from Ventura Harbor with Island Packers Cruises. And, more happy news, weather permitting, they run trips out to these two islands all year long. Please consult their website for trip and boat schedules. 

While there are plenty of moderate and easy Channel Island hikes, including scheduled guided tours, be aware that some Channel Islands hikes are strenuous and only appropriate for physically fit individuals and experienced hikers. Even if you’re experienced, the buddy system is highly recommended on all trails — because, and this is the beauty of the Channel Islands, more often than not you’ll find yourself completely alone. A few wise precautions; wear sturdy hiking boots, bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat, and think about planning your hike in advance.

This will help you with that.

On any of the Channel Islands hikes, you’ll encounter spectacular views. Like a miniature, untouched California wildland, the cliffs, hills, mountains, grasslands, canyons, and valleys on each island are like a step back in time; a walk through a California that once was. And then everywhere — often all sides — there’s the Pacific Ocean; a deep, pristine blue on clear afternoons, a dramatic, moody grey on misty mornings. With untouched beaches, sheer cliffs, and hundreds of unique plant species and wildlife to spot, these world-class hikes — just a short boat ride from Ventura and several world’s away — shouldn’t be missed.

Smuggler’s Cove – 7.5 miles roundtrip – Strenuous (Optional: Yellowbacks – add 3 miles; Smuggler’s Canyon – add 2 miles)

This popular, world-class return hike fits perfectly into a full day’s trip between Island Packers‘ morning drop off and late afternoon departure at Scorpion Beach. The hike from Scorpion Beach to Smuggler’s Cove (and back) will give you a little taste of everything the island has to offer: spectacular views of the Pacific, beaches, mountains, valleys, grasslands, and a very good chance of seeing native plants and wildlife, including island foxes, lizards, ravens, and, in springtime, wildflowers.

This hike climbs steeply right away, levels off for a time, and then drops steeply down before ending at a tree-covered picnic area and pristine, rocky beach at Smuggler’s Cove. While plenty of food and water will need to be packed in (and out), there are toilets and picnic benches at Smuggler’s Cove. Spend some time relaxing at the beach (or in the cool shade), or keep on exploring via a rugged add-on trek (Yellowbacks, Smuggler’s Canyon, or San Pedro Point trails; check the map or ask a park ranger for details), before heading back the way you came to Scorpion Beach.

The return hike mirrors the outbound hike, beginning with the steep upward incline leaving Smuggler’s Cove, followed by a flat, rolling walk, and finishing with a steep downhill trek on the fire road that returns you to Scorpion Beach. It’s an incredibly rewarding hike, but it is strenuous and you will need food, water, sunscreen, a good level of fitness, and a hiking partner.

Scorpion Canyon Loop – 4.5 miles roundtrip – Moderate/Strenuous

This is the perfect day-hike for those who crave a rugged Channel Islands trek but also enjoy taking their time. This medium-effort trail — with some difficult sections — is a hilly, inland trek that fits easily into the time between morning drop-off and late afternoon pick-up at the dock. It has the added benefit of being a loop, so you won’t see the same thing twice. Hike clockwise to avoid a steep upward climb, and keep an eye out for the rare Island Scrub-Jay — found nowhere else in the world.

Anacapa Island

Just over a one-hour boat ride from Ventura Harbor, this is an ideal day trip experience for hikers. East Anacapa Island being less than one square mile, you’ll get the satisfaction of exploring an entire islet from tip to tip. Though small, Anacapa boasts truly stunning views and easy trails, making it ideal for day-hikers seeking an untamed wilderness experience combined with minimal physical exertion. Camping is available for those seeking a longer stay at this remote location. Be advised that unlike Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa Islands there is no drinkable water available anywhere on this island, so adequate amounts water, as well as food and sun protection, must be packed in and out.

Featuring a leisurely 2 miles of trails, you’ll inhale dramatic views as you hike along the island’s rolling slopes. In late winter and spring, the hills are often painted with wildflowers, and wildlife viewings are common throughout the year both on the island and from the boat, including great masses of sea birds, and seals and sea lions. Note that the two other islets that make up Anacapa Island, the Middle and West Islets, are not available for hiking, but their preservation as wildlife sanctuaries are what make wildlife viewing on East Anacapa so spectacular.

The trails on Anacapa Island make a rough figure eight loop. Key (and impossible to miss) sights along the way, include the spectacular vista at (aptly named) Inspiration Point, sea lion sightings at Pinniped Point, the beautiful rock formations at Cathedral Cove, and the historic Lighthouse, the last built one on the West Coast. Along the way, stop for lunch or a snack, and be sure to take a very long moment to absorb the serenity of simply being away from mankind’s things.

Black Mountain – 8 miles roundtrip – Strenuous

This is a must-do trail for experienced hikers. While the hike up this loop trail is a rugged, strenuous climb, hikers are rewarded with astonishing views of the Pacific Ocean, the surrounding Channel Islands, and, on clear days, even Ventura on the mainland. Rolling scrublands and oak woodlands roll away from this unforgettable hike. As there is little shade and no potable water past the trailhead, be sure to bring sun protection and plenty to eat and drink.

Water Canyon – 3 miles (to the canyon mouth) – Strenuous

Despite the short, 3 mile trail to the mouth of the canyon, this hike is longer than it appears because the canyon itself continues for another 6 miles, ending near Soledad peak. The hike into the canyon can be steep, and, once inside, hikers are off-trail, following natural animal paths and the streambed, so this trek is recommended for experienced hikers only. However, for the effort and adventure, hikers will be rewarded with a walk through a pristine sandstone canyon, with native vegetation growing along the steep walls, and water flowing in the streambed almost all year. As this trail is rugged underfoot, be certain to bring a hiking partner in addition to food, sun protection, a map, and water.

Lobo Canyon – 9 miles (one-way to Canyon mouth) – Strenuous

If you want to experience a geological wonder, this lengthy hike is worth every ounce of effort. At 9 miles from the Pier to the Canyon Mouth (so another 9 miles home), this trek is recommended for experienced hikers. You’ll need to start early (it’s a full day), and bring lots of food and water, and, yes, at least one other hiking partner. The hike begins by passing through the rolling hills and natural scrubland of Santa Rosa Island. That trail ends at the mouth of Lobo Canyon, a natural canyon framed by grooved and pocketed sandstone walls, shaped by wind and water, and hung with a peace that is beyond words. Take some time to enjoy the Canyon before heading back.

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