For Corbin’s birthday, Kelly & Corbin planned a full-on adventure to one of the most unique parks in the entire U.S. — Channel Islands National Park. In this episode of Hike N’ Seek, we break down everything from coastal breweries and oceanfront camping to sea caves, dolphins, foxes, and one very long backpacking trek across Santa Cruz Island.This was our first overnight island trip together — complete with a late start on the kayak tour, rushing to beat daylight to camp, and the kind of shared exhaustion that becomes a core memory. From rain hitting the RV roof in Ventura to whales delaying the return ferry, this trip had everything.Whether you’re planning your own Channel Islands adventure or just love real hiking stories, we’re covering the planning, the trail stats, the wildlife encounters, the moments that pushed us, and the moments we’ll never forget.

🌊 In This Episode

• Ferry from Ventura to Santa Cruz Island
• Sea cave kayaking with Channel Islands Adventure Company
• Backpacking to the Del Norte backcountry campground
• Island fox sightings, seals, dolphins & whales
• The full hike routes:
  • Day 1 → Montañon Trail to Del Norte (9.4 miles, 1,260 ft gain)
  • Day 2 → Navy Road return + Potato Chip Rock (12.67 miles, 2,044 ft gain)
• Birthday night back in Ventura — showers, dinner, and crashing hard
• Why Channel Islands is one of the most underrated National Parks in the system

📍 Location: Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands National Park
🎒 Vibe: Remote coastline, ocean cliffs, long miles, birthday magic

⛰ Thanks for listening to Hike N’ Seek w/ Kelly & Corbin!
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