Channel Islands - Santa Cruz - Part 2
As we approached the isolated island, we saw our adventure introducing itself to us again-Channel Islands. The beautiful ever-changing island of Santa Cruz opened her inviting arms to us. Finally, we left the boat and stepped onto solid ground on Scorpion Anchorage. The dock displayed an incredible array of sea life, with colorful starfish and bright purple urchins. The hills and the ocean's shooting rocks were as beautiful as ever. The water was a clear and clean spectacular blue! There we began our 7 mile round trip journey to a cobblestone beach called Smuggler's Cove. It is certainly an endurance hike through the beautiful and hot backcountry of Santa Cruz with it's rolling grasslands.
Our first half a mile was all up hill and we immediately got a taste of what was to come. But it was sure worth it. The view was a spectacular sight to see. From above the deadly cliff sides, we saw the amazing underwater kelp forest, where people from all over the world visit to divulge in the world renowned scuba diving. I have never gone scuba diving before at Channel Islands, but here is a link to a picture from underwater: KELP FOREST
As we weaved in and out of the hills, we stopped for a drink. There we admired the view of the mainland and Anacapa, the other neighboring Channel Island floating in the horizon!
We continued on our journey. After a long and strenuous hike, we finally reached our destination. As we arrived on the beach, a fragrant smell was coming from what I thought to believe was Eucalyptus trees. (I may be mistaken, but it was surely a great way to relax the mind after our long journey). There were only about 6 other hikers there admiring the solitude of it all. And pure peace.
After our pleasant lunch and of course, pictures- we headed back to Scorpion Anchorage, where our boat would be departing. Another long hike through the mountains... like I said endurance. And the view again, was breathtaking. Before we headed down to the boat, we stopped off at a cliffside overlooking the sea caves below us. Channel Islands is not only known for it's spectacular scuba diving, but it is also know for kayaking. We said goodbye to the island and we descended down the hills. Our bodies ached as we entered the boat headed home. We all looked back once more, inspired. Another great day of hiking and beauty! The crew announced another whale sighting- 4 or 5 whales near the Santa Cruz island. The boat circled around searching for the spouts of water that would reach into the air. And then, there they were, as the sun was setting behind the majestic creatures. They were there to wave farewell to our weary bodies. We watched for a while as the whales harmonized together like instruments.
Then off we went, away from the sun, slowly watching the island get smaller and smaller. We drank hot chocolate and had some pizza from the boat kitchen. The air was getting colder, as the sun went down. Still, the view prevented us from leaving our outdoor seats. :)
Till next time...
