Hiking Trail Guide: Santa Cruz Island - Cavern Point Loop

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Santa Cruz Island - Cavern Point Loop

Distance
2 miles

Elevation
800 feet gain

Difficulty
2/10

City
Ventura ,CA (93004) Weather Map

Trailhead
From Scorpion Harbor on Santa Cruz Island - take the path behind Scorpion Ranch leading North up the hillside, or you can take the trip in reverse from Scorpion Campground. The trail is easy to find.

To get to Santa Cruz Island you must take a boat. There are a couple of companies that charter them to the island and back.

Make certain you check in with the ranger - he won't check on you.

Description

This hike is very easy for anyone. If you start at Scorpion Ranch, the trail is a bit steep and has a few switchbacks, but there have been steps cut into the trail for the less experienced.

If you are elderly, infirm or with an infant start the hike from the campground instead - this route gains elevation over a longer distance.

The view from cavern point is amazing, the plant and avian life is very cool. At sunrise I watched a falcon scope his prey for around thirty minutes. There are sheer cliffs and steep drop-offs , so be careful.

I would highly recommend the sunrise and sunset from this vantage point - it is most spectacular. This trail is not to be missed by anyone who visits the island.

On clear days, you can make out all of the cities and ridge-like peaks along the east-west stretch of coast from Santa Barbara to Point Mugu. You also get a nice view of Anacapa.

Map / Directions: