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Details

Distance

7.6 miles

Elevation Gain

2214 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

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Added by The Outbound Collective

El Montanon Trail is a unique, 7.6 mile hike on Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park. The hike offers jaw-dropping views of the island's hills, canyons, and the surrounding Pacific Ocean.

Bring extra layers, as exposed ridges are very windy. Trekking poles are recommended to help provide stability during strong wind gusts. The views are absolutely breathtaking. If you visit this hike after heavy rains or in the spring, wildflowers are abundant. 

The trail is open year-round. The El Montanon Trail is the perfect place to find complete solitude on Santa Cruz Island. The trail eventually narrows from a fire road through campsites to a single-track trail that can be overgrown with tall grasses and wildflowers. The trail up the ridge can be washed out depending on previous rainfall. As you gain elevation the views become more and more spectacular. One a clear day, you can see Prisoner's Cove on the other side of the island. 

The summit of El Montanon offers panoramic views of the islands and Pacific Ocean. Take more water than you think you'll need. 

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Features

Fitness
Photography
Running
Hiking
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Potato Harbor Trail

Scorpion Ranch Campground

Smuggler's Cove

Cavern Point & Potato Harbor Loop

Potato Harbor via North Bluff Trail

Kayak Santa Cruz Island