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National Park Service Closes Anacapa Island
The staircase, right, has been damaged over the years by exposure to the harsh and corrosive marine environment | Photo by Zach Behrens/LAist
The staircase, right, has been damaged over the years by exposure to the harsh and corrosive marine environment | Photo by Zach Behrens/LAist
Bad news for anyone wanting to see the height of bird season this year on Anacapa Island. The National Park Service yesterday closed Anacapa Island because the staircase, which climbs over 150 steps to access 200-foot high cliffs, has deteriorated into a condition that is no longer safe for the public.
“This regrettable closure is necessary to ensure public safety,” said Channel Island National Park Superintendent Russell Galipeau. “The National Park Service will work diligently to conduct repairs in order to reopen the island as soon as possible.”
Even though the staircase has been constructed, installation was delayed in April when the island's crane was found to be broken.
Anacapa Island is the second smallest island -- 1.1 square miles -- in the eight-island chain known as the Channel Islands, of which five are part of the national park. At about 17 miles from Oxnard, it is the closest to shore and one of the more visited islands, which is known for its Springtime wild flowers and as a bird rookery in June.
Trips to the three outer islands -- San Miguel, Santa Rosa and Santa Barbara -- will be begin at the end of June. Santa Cruz Island remains open year round.
Previously
- Day Tripping: Anacapa Island at Channel Islands National Park
- Photos: Anacapa Island Abloom with Wildflowers, but it Won't Last Long
- Volunteers Fight to Save Anacapa Island
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