Anacapa Island Closed Due to Deteriorating Staircase

Date: June 11, 2010
Contact: Yvonne Menard, 805-658-5725

Anacapa Island is closed to the public until further notice due to a safety hazard. The corrosion of a frame support on the island staircase has unfortunately necessitated this closure.

This staircase provides the only access to the 200-foot-high cliffs of this volcanic island. An inspection conducted on Thursday, June 10, 2010, uncovered the worsening condition of the staircase structure and a determination to close the island was made. This occurred at a time when no visitors were on the island.

The National Park Service concessioner Island Packers has been notified of the closure. Island Packers plans to re-route their scheduled trips to Anacapa Island as non-landing north shore wildlife cruises or as landing trips to Santa Cruz Island.

The steel staircase has deteriorated over time from exposure to the harsh and corrosive marine environment. It was scheduled to be replaced this past April. The new staircase has been constructed but installation has been delayed since the island crane is not operational.

Channel Islands National Park shut down the Anacapa Island crane following an inspection in March that identified mechanical, structural, and electrical problems. The park is currently assessing whether to repair or replace the island crane.

“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.”