Backpacker Magazine – Online Exclusive

Web Exclusive: The Rebirth of Santa Cruz Island

Dive into the Channels Islands with exclusive on-the-scene video, photos, and trip reports.

by: The Backpacker Editors

For the June, 2008 Adventures story "Return of the Natives" Backpacker associate editor Shannon Davis reported on the hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing on Santa Cruz island. Now see his on-the-scene video, view his photo diary, download trip reports from the island and see more of photographer Michael Darter's mind-blowing photos.

Video: Paddling and Hiking Channel Islands National Park
Join Shannon Davis as he explores the island by land and see in this exclusive online video.

Gallery: Channel Islands Photo Diary
Shannon Davis takes you behind the scenes of his trip to Santa Cruz island in his personal photo diary.

Gallery: Michael Darter’s Santa Cruz Island
Professional photographer Michael Darter works his magic with his breathtaking images of the island in this gallery. For more on Darter and his work, go to www.michaeldarter.com

Trip Report: Shannon Davis's Santa Cruz Island Park
Download Davis's hike on Santa Cruz island in the GPS-enabled trip report, complete with comprehensive Google map. 

More Channel Islands National Park Hikes
View and download all of Backpacker.com’s trip reports in Channel Islands National Park here. View them on your desktop, phone, or gps, then get hiking.

Channel Islands National Park: Lobo Canyon Trail
Discover ancient archaeology and island isolation (playful sea lions excepted) on this 5.2-mile loop through Santa Rosa's steep canyons and sandy beaches.

Channel Islands National Park: Torrey Pines Loop
Squeeze this 4.3-mile dayhike in before the ferry departs for the mainland. Highlights: super rare pine trees and breezy views of the mighty Pacific.
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