Channel Island Smuggler

Hike Smugglers Cove Channel Islands

One of the best hikes in Channel Islands National Park traverses Santa Cruz Island, offering panoramic vistas and leading to a secluded cove. The 7.5-mile (round-trip) hike to Smuggler's Cove starts at Scorpion Anchorage and ascends a singletrack trail with sweeping views of inland hills. Follow the trail as it edges along bluffs that drop straight to the crashing waves, and look for the distant Santa Susana Mountains to the east. Another thing to keep an eye out for? The island scrub-jay—found only on this island. Continue onto Smuggler's Road, marked by an old windmill on the other side of the path. The trail draws a definite sweat with its steady, steep ascent. After about 2 miles, things level out and the neighboring Anacapa Islands come into view. Olive trees flank the final steep descent to Smuggler's Cove, where a few picnic tables and eucalyptus trees border the slim cobblestone beach. The cove also has tide pools with sea life like green anemones and the scarce black abalone. (Head to the west end of the beach during low tide to catch the best show; be careful, there are some sharp rocks on shore.) Return the way you came: The first mile is straight upwards—but don't rush it; a true smuggler knows how to play it cool.

Start at Scorpion Anchorage by taking the ascending road to the right of the pier. Continue for 0.2 mile until you reach the intersection at Smuggler's Road. Cross the dry creek and begin a steep incline. After 2.25 miles the path begins a descent and then levels as it circles Smuggler's Cove before leading to the beach. There is no water available at Smuggler's Cove, so you must bring plenty for the road. Hiking trail maps are available at the visitor center at Scorpion Anchorage. Trails are well marked. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. All right, Almaden!

    Take a trip through time on this 5-mile loop in Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Explore the ruins of an old cinnabar mine and enjoy the first hints of wildflower season.

    View
  2. Waterfalls and Wine Pours

    Cooler temps, green hills, and the return of our magnificent waterfalls! This family-friendly 2-mile hike at Uvas Canyon County Park in Morgan Hill is a great way to get the most out of a short hike post-rain.

    View
  3. Woman hiker is climbing up the ladder in the Steep Ravine section of the Dipsea Loop Trail on Mount Tam

    Misty on Mount Tam

    Mount Tam’s 3.9-mile round-trip Steep Ravine and Dipsea Trail Loop weathers the wets and wilds with some confidence, sheltered in parts by redwoods, and wowing with a waterfall.

    View
  4. Mile-Long Cataract Club

    In winter after heavy rains, the north flank of Mount Tam glows with flows. The nearly mile-long series of waterfalls—Cataract Falls—transforms into a supercharged spectacle. Starting at Alpine Dam, a 1.6 mile (one-way) narrow trails threads through redwoods and ferns along Cataract Creek.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Hidden Gems of Reno Tahoe

    Step into a land where adventure meets relaxation. Reno Tahoe is where the spirit of the great outdoors and the energy of vibrant city life inspire you to live with no limits.

    View
  2. Peace Labyrinth

    Hidden in LA’s historic West Adams district, the Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens is a welcome respite from the norms of urban noise.

    View
  3. Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  4. Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian

    Three Sisters

    Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.

    View