Where: The trip will be to the Channel Islands National Park on Santa Cruz Island (www.NPS.gov/chis). Participants have a choice of visiting the National Park at Scorpion Canyon on eastern SCI, or continuing on to Prisoner's Harbor on the northern coast (an additional 20 minute boat ride).
When: Tuesday June 10, 2008. Transportation by Island Packers boat (www.Islandpackers.com). Depart Ventura Harbor at 9:00 AM (be there by 8:15 for sign in) and return at 5:00 PM.
Who: This trip is open to all SMMTC Board of Directors members, SMMTC members and all SMMTC trail maintenance volunteers (you don't have to be a Trails Council Member).
What: At Scorpion Canyon, participants will be able to view historic ranch buildings and ranching/farming equipment. There is an opportunity to hike some of the local trails and see evidence of the many hours of trail maintenance performed by the SMMTC volunteer trail crews during the last year. There are opportunities to walk on the nearby beach or just relax and enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade. For those who travel on to Prisoner's Harbor, you will get a glimpse of a much different Santa Cruz Island. This part of the trip will include a 2 mile (4 mile round trip) hike on Nature Conservancy property to Pelican Bay, site of the historic Eaton Pelican Bay Resort. This hike will offer beautiful views of the glorious fauna of this part of the island. At the far end of the hike you will be able to view remains of the Eaton Resort and observe the sea life in the tide pools (depending on the state of the tide). We might even be able to spot the nearby eagle nest, home of two of the four eagle chicks hatched on the island this year. Near the pier there are shaded picnic tables and a beautiful beach to relax. Since the Nature Conservancy portion of the Island is generally not open to the public, this is a rare opportunity to experience this part of the island.
How: Due to the many hours of volunteer work the SMMTC trail crews perform on Santa Cruz, Island Packers has offered us a special discounted rate of $38 per person for this trip. Please make your check out to "Island Packers", but deliver it to me, Jerry Mitcham, (818) 406-1269, no later than 27 May 2008 (I must confirm the number in our party two weeks in advance of the trip).
Additional Notes: Although the weather will probably be very warm, you should bring a light jacket or sweater for the boat ride. There are no shops or refreshments available on the island - you should bring your own water, lunch and snacks. You can bring a cooler for your drinks if you wish. There are refreshments available on the boat.
For more Information: If you have additional questions please contact Jerry Mitcham at (818) 406-1269.