Trip · 3-day backpacking trip
For · Friends and experienced backpackers
Vibe · Challenging and hard
Distance · 20.8 miles and 3,442 feet of elevation gain
Permits · Reserve a backcountry beach camping permit and a round-trip ferry ticket
Drive · 1 hour drive from LA and a 2.5 hour ferry ride
Ideal dates · August 15 - December 31 (when the island is open for backpacking)
Pets · Not allowed on the islands
Channel Islands National Park (CINP) has five spectacular islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara. Planning a backpacking a trip involves some ferry logistics, but don't let that deter you from having a once-in-a-lifetime California adventure. This trek takes you to Santa Rosa Island, which is only open for a few months out of the year. Plan ahead and enjoy unforgettable views.
Official National Park Website
Main image credit: Yvonne Leow
Channel Islands National Park was established in 1980. For over a century before, Santa Rosa Island was occupied by sheep and cattle ranchers.
Santa Rosa was home to the Island Chumash tribe. In fact, the oldest human remains ever discovered in North America, dating back to 13,000 years ago, was found on Santa Rosa Island.
Torrey pines grow naturally in two places on Earth: one area is in San Diego and the other is on Santa Rosa Island.