Channel Islands National Park

Smuggler's Cove

7.5 miles roundtrip – Strenuous

From Scorpion Beach, this hike offers diverse scenery through grasslands, valleys, and hills before descending to Smuggler's Cove. Pack sturdy boots, water, and snacks. A partner is advisable. Optional add-ons like Yellowbacks Trail and Smuggler's Canyon can extend your hike.

Cavern Point Loop

2 miles – Moderate

This shorter hike offers rewarding ocean views. Go clockwise for fewer climbs. Bring binoculars for potential whale sightings. Start and end at Scorpion Beach, where water is available. Pack extra for the journey and remember to carry out all trash.

Scorpion Canyon Loop

4.5 miles roundtrip – Moderate/Strenuous

Ideal for rugged trail enthusiasts. Clockwise is easier but prepare for challenges either way. Watch for the Island Scrub-Jay. This hilly loop provides varied scenery throughout.

Historic Ranch

0.5 miles – Easy

A short, flat trail from Scorpion Pier to Scorpion Ranch. Suitable for all ages. Explore historic buildings and farm machinery for a glimpse into 1800s island life.

Anacapa Island

The smallest island, perfect for day trips. Trails offer great views and are easy to explore. No drinkable water available. Key sights include Inspiration Point, Pinniped Point, and the historic Lighthouse.

Santa Rosa Island

Requires a longer boat ride but offers diverse geology and trails for experienced hikers. The Black Mountain hike (8-mile strenuous loop) rewards with sweeping views. A moderate 5-mile hike to rare Torrey Pines is recommended. Bring sufficient water, food, and sun protection. Limited amenities available.

Water Canyon, Lobo Canyon, and Water Canyon Beach offer hikes ranging from easy to extremely strenuous. Check with a ranger about wind conditions affecting difficulty.

Prepare well, use the buddy system, and stick to marked trails. Respect wildlife and natural features. Channel Islands National Park offers uncluttered vistas, rugged trails, and wildlife encounters for those seeking a raw Californian adventure.
Hikers on the trail to Smuggler's Cove, with expansive views of grasslands, valleys, and the ocean

Hiking in Washington's Islands

Washington State's islands offer diverse hiking trails with varying habitats and scenery year-round.

Orcas Island:

  • Turtleback Mountain Preserve: Several trail options through woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands.
  • Mount Constitution: 6.7-mile roundtrip to the highest point in the San Juans, featuring a stone observation tower.

Lopez Island:

  • Iceberg Point: Two-mile trail with potential orca and shorebird sightings, overlooking Olympic Mountains.

San Juan Island:

  • Young Hill: 2.2-mile moderate climb with expansive views and historical features.

Guemes Island:

  • Guemes Mountain: 2.3-mile roundtrip to the island's highest point, offering views of North Cascades and Mount Baker.

Whidbey Island:

  • Goose Rock Trail: Modest elevation with island and Sound views, ideal for beginners.
  • Ebey's Landing: 5.6-mile roundtrip combining history, scenic beauty, and diverse habitats.
  • Trillium Community Forest: 7 miles of trails, including ADA-accessible sections.

Bainbridge Island:

  • Gazzam Lake Nature Preserve: 3.4-mile hike featuring lake shores and secluded beach.

Vashon Island:

  • Island Center Forest: Over 10 miles of trails in a working forest with cultural significance.
  • Maury Island Marine Park: 3-mile trail with 500 feet elevation gain, offering Puget Sound views.
  • Shinglemill Creek Preserve: 3-mile roundtrip following the creek from ravine to Puget Sound.

Prepare with adequate water, appropriate gear, and respect for natural surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Hikers on Turtleback Mountain trail on Orcas Island, with views of surrounding islands and water

Hiking and Walking on Block Island

Block Island offers diverse trails for hikers and walkers of all levels.

Trail Highlights:

  • Lewis-Dickens Farm Wildlife Refuge Trail: 0.9-mile gentle trail through pastures and woods, rich in wildlife and vegetation.
  • Clayhead Trail: At least 2 miles each way, featuring cliff views and winding paths. Trail evolves due to erosion, offering new experiences for repeat visitors.
  • West Beach: Collect sea glass along the coastline. Walk from the transfer station to North Light, potentially encountering seagull colonies and seals at Sandy Point.
  • Beacon Hill Farm and Enchanted Forest: Extended hike with potential to find hidden glass orbs.

Unique Activity:

Glass Float Project: Artist-initiated scavenger hunt for hidden glass orbs across beaches and trails.

Preparation tips:

  • Pack sun protection, water, comfortable shoes, snacks, and a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Consider bringing a map or downloading trail guides.
  • Explore different parts of the island each day for a comprehensive experience.
Block Island provides hiking opportunities ranging from easy walks to more challenging trails. Unique activities like sea glass collecting and the Glass Float Project add excitement to each outing. Remember to carry essentials and respect the environment to preserve these trails for future visitors.
Person searching for a hidden glass float on a rocky Block Island beach
  1. National Park Service. Channel Islands National Park. U.S. Department of the Interior.
  2. Washington Trails Association. Hiking Guide.
  3. Block Island Tourism Council. Hiking and Walking on Block Island.