Del Norte Trail

This is a 7-mile round trip (3.5 miles each way) from the Prisoners Harbor landing to Del Norte Campground. From the landing, follow Navy Road inland for about 1.5 miles and roughly 600 feet of climbing. At the signed junction, turn east/left onto Del Norte Trail and continue about 1.8 miles through Cañada del Agua and Cañada del Muro to Del Norte Road, then follow the campground approach for about 0.2 miles. The stored line represents the one-way corridor; the visitor distance and time are for hiking out and back.

The route crosses island oak woodland, coastal sage scrub, canyons, and exposed ridges with broad coastal and south-side views. Del Norte Campground sits in a shaded oak grove and is the island’s remote backcountry camping destination.

The opening Navy Road section is gravel and is still used by vehicles, so walk attentively on blind curves. The interior trail is rugged and undulating, with uneven tread and exposed sections. In winter and spring, the creek crossing at Cañada del Puerto near Prisoners Harbor can be wet, fast-moving, and more than 2 feet deep. Carry all water: there is no water at the campground or reliably along the route; seasonal stream water, when present, must be treated before use.

Del Norte is a primitive campground with four sites, and overnight use requires an advance reservation. The island is accessible by authorized boat or private vessel only; there is no on-island car parking. Carry food, water, and all backpacking gear, pack out trash, and use no fires.