Hike the North Bluff Trail to Potato Harbor

Ventura, California

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Details

Distance

5 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Leigh Maneri

This hike traverses the colossal cliffs of east Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park and ends in Potato Harbor. Drink in awe-inspiring views and keep an eye out for whales in the waters below.

The 5-mile North Bluff Trail traverses the colossal cliffs of Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park from Scorpion Anchorage to Potato Harbor. Arrive via an Island Packers boat to Scorpion Anchorage and, upon disembarking, walk straight ahead. Just past the restrooms (one of only two on the island so make a stop if needed), turn right onto the North Bluff Trail.

Your first lookout is Cavern Point with a small climb off the trail and an amazing view with staggering drop-offs. Continue on and the trail converges with Potato Harbor Road. At this point, you're moments from Potato Harbor. With its Big Sur-like cliffs and white beaches outlining turquoise blue water, this is a great place to grab a snack or sit and eat your lunch amongst raw, chaotic beauty. Walk back the same way.

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Bathrooms

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