Montañon Ridge Loop, Channel Islands National Park
Hike Statistics:
Distance: 8.9 miles
Elevation gain: 1,699 feet
Highlights: Montañon Peak, Potato Harbor, Anacapa Island overlook
About this Hike
Though many nature enthusiasts overlook Channel Islands in favor of California’s more popular parks, my visit to this isolated national park in 2022 blew me away. The park consists of 5 islands off southern California’s coast, each with their own unique offerings. Santa Cruz Island is the largest and most visited of the islands, containing the most activities and the park’s highest point: Montañon Peak.
Hiking to Montañon Peak is no cakewalk, but is well worth the effort. On your way to the summit, you’ll pass through Scorpion Canyon before discovering an increasingly spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. Anacapa Island will come into view to the east, and eventually you’ll spot Santa Cruz Island’s rugged western side along Montañon Ridge. After a quick scramble to Montañon Peak, you’ll descend through grassy prairies until reaching the breathtaking Potato Harbor and returning to Scorpion Anchorage.
Though I did this hike in late summer, I recommend planning your trip to Channel Islands in the spring. At this time, the islands are likely to be green and covered in wildflowers. This is also a good time to spot whales in the channel between the islands and the mainland. Bring plenty of water, and keep your eyes peeled for island foxes!
