On Santa Cruz Island, the biggest of the Channel Islands, you will find the most peaceful, remote campsite 10 miles from Scorpion Cove and 4 miles from Prisoner's Harbor called Del Norte. Last spring, I hiked and camped solo here to reflect and make peace with my three year relationship ending, and I credit this trip with the majority of my healing. As a native Californian, seeing the Channel Islands (CA's least visited state park) offers a completely new perspective of the state. You not only see it in its wildest and most natural form, but you can look back and see the shimmer of lights across the water from LA and Ventura, 26 miles away. I hiked the 10 miles, up and down mountains with stunning views and wildflowers, to arrive at Del Norte by sunset (pictured: me in my freshly assembled tent!). I didn't see another person for about 7 hours, it was just me and the island the majority of the hike. As a woman, I found doing this hike/camp solo felt super safe, since it takes a lot of effort (and record-keeping!) to get on or off these islands. The next morning, I hiked the 4 miles to Prisoner's Harbor and took the boat back to the mainland. I stayed in Santa Barbara that night and had an amazing 14 hour sleep, and at 7 am the next morning I hiked to the Montecito Hot Springs. Cherry on top! I did this trip with no training, lol... it was definitely quite physically and emotionally challenging, but SO rewarding! more
