Expedition Spotlight: The Torrey Pines of Santa Rosa Island

Name: Expedition Spotlight: The Torrey Pines of Santa Rosa Island
Uploaded: 2025-11-24T20:47:54.858Z
Description: In this episode of Expedition Spotlight, learn about the Torrey Pines of Channel Islands National Park, some of the rarest pine trees in the world.

Channel Islands National Park off the coast of Southern California is home to some of the rarest pine trees in the world—the Torrey Pine. As you explore Santa Rosa Island, you’ll discover these centuries-old trees with their twisted branches and blankets of pine needles in one of just two Torrey Pine groves on the planet. “When I come out here, it’s my happy place,” says Rich Reid, Director of Expedition Photography, noting the moments of serenity found sitting under a 250-year-old tree he affectionately calls “Abuelita.” In this Expedition Spotlight, Reid shares more about this remote grove and why he considers it “one of the most magnificent places on Earth.”