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Channel Islands Backpacking
updated: Jul 10, 2012, 1:00 PM

By Edhat Subscriber

I would like to know what some of the best backpacking is on the Channel Islands. Whats your favorite trail?

Also, what is the best/ cheapest way to get out there? I have heard of people sometimes leaving from Ventura.

Comments in order of when they were received | (reverse order)

COMMENT 295958	2012-07-10 03:07 PM
The concessionaire is Island Packers out of Ventura. Although Santa Cruz Island is the largest, only 25% is owned by the NPS, and you need a permit from the Nature Conservancy side (the other 75% owner). For a "longer" hike, go on San Miguel Isl. then to Pt. Bennett. I think it's around 11-13 miles (rt). windswept and definitely isolated. Island Packers staff will definitely give you more info. All camping permits you have to go through NPS website look for Channel Islands, no fires allowed. Enjoy
COMMENT 295975	2012-07-10 03:56 PM
There aren't many backpacking options on the islands. Santa Cruz has 1. The only other one with backpacking is Santa Rosa and that is pinniped mating-season restricted backcountry beach camping. I've never backpacked Santa Cruz. Santa Rosa, though, is amazing. The park website has all the info on backcountry camping on Santa Rosa. Be warned however that high tides, high winds, and carrying your own water makes the trek a lot more arduous than you might expect.
COMMENT 295977	2012-07-10 04:02 PM
The Santa Cruz trail does not have water, so it's not really ideal.
COMMENT 296091P	2012-07-10 07:55 PM
The backpacking sucks, but the secret midnight moonlight mountain bike riding rocks.
COMMENT 296339	2012-07-11 01:00 PM
Santa Cruz Island from the ranch house to smugglers cove.. did it as a boy scout many years ago, i think its around 11 miles... Great camping at smugglers cove right on the beach..

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