A Long Hiking Trail Across Catalina Island Offers Incredible Hidden Views Over Tough Terrain

Santa Catalina Island has a rich and interesting history. From ancient Native American communities to movie stars, this 76-square-mile landmass has seen an eclectic group of people grace its shores through the ages. The island is part of the southern Channel Islands 22 miles off the coast of California. Its rugged and unique landscape offers a variety of hikes traversing 165 miles of recreational roads and trails. The most practical way to access the island is by boat. For those of us who can't captain a vessel, the Catalina Express is a fantastic option. Double-check the ferry options for the days you plan to go as it does not run every hour. 

Once you've planned your ferry ride, it's time to explore one of the many hiking options available on the island. If you're looking for a challenge, The Trans Catalina Trail (TCT) is a must-visit destination for avid hikers. Covering 38.5 miles of Catalina Island, the multi-day route is a beautiful and rugged adventure, complete with opportunities for diverse wildlife spotting (including bison, wild foxes, and bald eagles), spectacular views, and epic landscapes. The trailhead begins in Avalon, extends its way out to Parson's Landing, and finishes at Two Harbors. Four days of walking and camping is the perfect amount of time to ensure hikers don't overexert themselves along the route.

With that in mind, how should you plan your adventure? The Catalina Conservancy recommends first-timers hike from south to north, beginning in the town of Avalon and ending in Two Harbors. The official website offers a detailed guide breaking the route into segments, though some may choose to combine portions to complete it more quickly.

Day one sets off in Avalon with a hike that covers approximately 11 miles. Hikers can expect an easy climb out of Avalon with a series of hills through the middle of the island before setting up for the night at Black Jack Campground. Day two to Little Harbor Campground is an 8-mile trek with an unusual pitstop that takes explorers to past the island's airport. Be sure to stop at the Airport in the Sky restaurant for a break and a well-deserved snack before continuing on to Little Harbour Campground.

On Day three, hikers make their way 5 miles to the town of Two Harbors, a section with spectacular viewpoints, but a tougher climb than other sections of the trail. The final 6.5-mile stretch of the day involves a steep descent into Parsons Landing, a secluded and primitive beach camping site. Note there is no running water at this site, so plan accordingly and be sure to stock up on water before you leave Two Harbors. The fourth and final day on the TCT is an easy 8-mile flat walk along the coast, which loops back to Two Harbors from Parsons Landing. Hikers can pick up the ferry and head straight back to San Pedro on the mainland from here. If you'd like to stay the night after a long exhausting hike, there are a few lodging options available in town, such as the Banning House Lodge.

Speaking of lodging options, one of the most important things to note is you must have your lodging planned out ahead of time. The Catalina Island Conservancy makes campsite bookings available for the upcoming season on January 1. If you know that you will be hiking the trail at any point during the year, heading to the website when the campsites are released is wise, as they fill up quickly. Hikers can book campsites online or call the Catalina Island Company at (310-510-4205) with the campsites and dates desired. 

Backcountry camping is not allowed on the island, therefore hikers must stay at one of the listed campsites or a hotel. If you stay at a campsite, be sure to use he on-site food lockers as the local critters have unfortunately been known to chew through backpacks. Each campground has toilets, and a ranger is typically around to assist with any camping needs or questions. Camping reservations serve as hiking permits, and for those who decide not to camp, free permits are available online. 

Hiking the Trans Catalina Trail offers an unforgettable, immersive experience. Those who trek this beautiful island will be met with sweeping coastal views, incredible natural beauty, and a great sense of achievement. Whether you're an avid hiker or seeking a seaside getaway in California, trekking the TCT is a perfect way to see the beauty that camping on Catalina Island has to offer.