Avalon and Two Harbors, California
- Duration: 4-6 days
- Highlights: The Trans Catalina Trail (TCT) is a breathtaking 38.5-mile lollipop thru hike that spans the length of Santa Catalina Island, just off Southern California’s coast. This trail offers a unique combination of rugged adventure and coastal charm, showcasing pristine beaches, rolling green hills, vibrant wildflowers, and encounters with island wildlife like bison and foxes.
- What’s unique is that along the way, hikers enjoy the convenience of designated beachside campsites, restaurants, restrooms, and water spigots, making it an excellent choice for first-time or solo backpackers.
- Difficulty: This hike is where bougie meets pain. It’s deceptively hard, including the famously challenging route to Parson’s Landing. There are several steep uphill and downhill grades, with little to no shade.
Transportation to Catalina Island
- Hikers begin their journey with a scenic 90-minute ferry ride to the island, starting from either Avalon on the eastern side or Two Harbors in the center. Starting in Avalon and finishing in Two Harbors is the most common approach to this hike. You will need to purchase ferry tickets in advance of your hike from Catalina Express.
- Pro Tip: While there are three ports to choose from when heading to Avalon—Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point—only one port, San Pedro, offers a return ferry from Two Harbors to the mainland. If you’re planning to park at the port, opting for San Pedro ensures you can depart and return to your car at the same location.
Permits and Reservations for The Trans Catalina Trail:
- Campground reservations are required and count as your day hiking permit. Campgrounds fill up quickly. I suggest reserving on Jan 1 to ensure you secure your spot. Book through the Catalina Conservancy.
Suggested 4-night and 5-day Itinerary for The Trans Catalina Trail:
- Avalon to Blackjack Campground 10.7 miles
- Blackjack to Little Harbor (lunch at Airport in the Sky) 8.2 miles
- Little Harbor to Two Harbors (lunch at Two Harbors) 5.3 miles
- Two Harbors to Parson’s Landing 6.6 miles
- Parson’s Landing back to Two Harbors 7.7 miles
Suggested 5-night and 6-day Itinerary for The Trans Catalina Trail:
- Avalon to Hermit Gulch Campground 1.5 miles
- Hermit Gulch Campground to Blackjack Campground 9.2 miles
- Blackjack to Little Harbor (lunch at Airport in the Sky) 8.2 miles
- Little Harbor to Two Harbors (lunch in Two Harbors) 5.3 miles
- Two Harbors to Parson’s Landing 6.6 miles
- Parson’s Landing back to Two Harbors 7.7 miles
Click here for full detailed map.
Weather on The Trans Catalina Trail:
- While it is possible to hike this trail year-round, spring is the best season. We hiked in early April and were immersed in a spectacular display of wildflowers, had moderate temperatures of around 60 degrees, no rain, and one high wind day.
- Summer brings intense heat that can be dangerous for hikers. Temperatures often exceed 90°F (32°C), with little to no shade along the trail, creating a risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion. The dry conditions and rugged terrain amplify the challenge, making proper hydration, sun protection, and early-morning starts essential for summer hikes.
Special Note from the Author:
We started our hike in the town of Avalon and finished in Two Harbors. When we hiked this trail, Parson’s Landing campground was closed due to damage from winter flooding. This required us to spend 2 nights at Two Harbors where we elected to hike the ~15-mile roundtrip loop to tag Parson’s Landing as a long day hike. While this option had its perks, I would highly recommend following the typical 4 night, 5-day itinerary and camping at Parson’s Landing. The typical itinerary is outlined below.
Day 1: Avalon to Blackjack Campground
- Distance: 10.7 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~2,900 feet
The Trans Catalina Trail starts in the vibrant town of Avalon, one of the most charming and romantic towns I’ve ever seen. The town of Avalon on Catalina Island is the kind of place that could easily suck you in—but remember you’re here for adventure, not souvenirs. Treat yourself to a quick lunch at a local café, take a stroll through the scenic streets, and then hit the trail before Avalon’s charm pulls you in for good. Trust me, the stunning views and unforgettable hikes along the Trans Catalina Trail are worth it.
The first 1.5 miles are an easy stroll to Hermit Gulch campground (an alternative option for night one camping). Your biggest challenge here is not spending money by staying out of the many shops, restaurants, and pubs in Avalon. Remember to stay strong, you can do it – I believe in you.
After the Hermit Gulch Campground, the fun begins as you start your “gentle” uphill climb out of the town of Avalon.
As you hike the Trans Catalina Trail, take a moment to soak in the stunning display of vibrant California poppies blanketing the hillsides. Look down at the charming town of Avalon below and marvel at just how far you’ve come already—what an achievement!
When you finally reach the top—and yes, you will make it, I promise—you’ll be greeted with the perfect spot to enjoy a well-deserved break. Nestle yourself under some good old man-made shade, unpack your lunch, and soak in the accomplishment. And while you’re at it, take a moment to hydrate—water is the key to staying happy on the Trans Catalina Trail. – just look at these hikers!
Once you’ve refueled, the excitement continues on the Trans Catalina Trail! You have a few more PUDs to go (Pointless Up and Down) before you reach your end destination for the night – Blackjack Campground.
You will pass a fence, barely big enough to squeeze through with your backpack, that reminds you that you are in a Bison area!! The bison on Catalina Island are free roaming, wild, and should be admired from a distance. They can be found anywhere on Catalina Island, but it’s not uncommon to see large heard in this area, so get ready to say hello! In this section of the Trans Catalina Trail, I did encounter one of these fluffy buffalos. He was taking a mid-day siesta right off the side of the trail, so I gave him a wide berth and blew him a kiss from afar. He knows I love him.
Shortly after, you will come to Haypress Recreation Area, with picnic tables, a bathroom, garbage cans, and an opportunity to refill your water at the spigot. These little luxuries are exactly why the Trans Catalina Trail earns its “bougie hiking trail” reputation.
After a well-earned rest, it’s time to hit the trail again—up, down, up, down—keeping your ears open for frogs and your eyes peeled for the Catalina Island fox. Eventually, you’ll arrive at your destination for the night: the scenic Blackjack Campground, your only inland campground on this entire hike.
Day 2: Blackjack Campground to Little Harbor
- Distance: 8.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~987 feet
- Highlights: Airport in the Sky and Little Harbor Campground
Get ready for an exciting stretch of the Trans Catalina Trail! On day two, just 2 miles after leaving Blackjack Campground, you’ll hit your first “town stop”—or maybe more accurately, your first dose of “trail magic.” Welcome to the Airport in the Sky, perfectly perched in the heart of Catalina Island, right between Avalon and Two Harbors. It has an interesting history you can dive into, but if you’re anything like me, you’re probably most interested in the restaurant menu.
After you’ve had your breakfast cheeseburger at The Airport in the Sky, continue on The Trans Catalina Trail, you have some down-hill hiking to your end destination, Little Harbor Campground, the halfway point of this hike.
Rated “One of the Best Campgrounds in the West” by Sunset Magazine, Little Harbor Campground quickly became my personal favorite stop along the Trans Catalina Trail. Its stunning views and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for any hiker on the trail. If you’re tempted to skip this campground to shorten your hike, resist the urge—you won’t want to miss out on this gem.
Day 3: Little Harbor Campground to Two Harbors
- Distance: 5.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~1,800 feet
- Highlights: Specular, sweeping views of the island, probably the best views on the entire Trans Catalina Trail. I’m pretty sure I saw dinosaurs.
Take your time and enjoy this 5-mile day. You have a small hill to climb but you’ve got the time to relax and soak in the views. Once you arrive in the town of Two Harbors, you will once again have the opportunity to enjoy some restaurant grub at the Harbor Reef Restaurant. There is also a general store, showers for a small fee, and if you’re really ready to get off trail, there is an accommodation option that doesn’t involve camping – The Banning House Lodge. Personally, I recommend camping at Two Harbors Campground, but this is a choose your own bougie adventure type of trail, so you do you.
Days 4/5: Two Harbors to Parson’s Landing
- Green Line: 6.6 miles, Elevation Gain ~1,900 feet
- Yellow Line: 7.7 miles, Elevation Gain ~600 feet
- Campground: Parson’s Landing
Welcome to the “lollipop loop” of the Trans Catalina Trail—arguably the most challenging yet rewarding part of the journey! To complete a “true thru-hike” of the TCT, follow the green trail out to Parson’s Landing and the yellow trail back. The green line is not for the faint of heart—it’s significantly more demanding, with steep climbs, sharp descents, loose gravel, and minimal switchbacks to offer any mercy. In my humble opinion, this section wins the title of “most difficult part of the entire hike.” If you’re battling knee pain, backaches, blisters, or just want to keep the vibe breezy and light, consider hiking the yellow trail both out and back.
The elevation differences between the green and yellow routes are shown below—choose what works best for you!
Parson’s Landing Campground on Catalina Island is a true gem along the Trans Catalina Trail. Nestled in a secluded, sandy cove, this beachfront camping spot is nothing short of spectacular. Each campsite comes equipped with a small fire pit, perfect for relaxing after a hard day’s hike. This is the only campsite along the Trans Catalina Trail that has no running water —you’re officially off the grid—but don’t worry, the Catalina Island Conservancy has your back. For a small fee, they’ll deliver water and firewood to your campsite and will leave it in the lockers seen below.
The author looking at the view at the highest point of the Trans Catalina Trail.
Closing Thoughts:
The Trans Catalina Trail is the ultimate adventure for outdoor enthusiasts who crave a mix of challenge and comfort. With jaw-dropping ocean views, steep elevation gains, and the chance to encounter island foxes, this trail offers a hiking experience like no other. Designed for seasoned hikers, the TCT combines rugged climbs with “bougie” amenities like fire pits, picnic tables, water spigots, and even a restaurant stop at the iconic Airport in the Sky. If you’re up for testing your endurance, soaking in California’s stunning coastline, and enjoying a bucket-list hike that balances grit and luxury, the Trans Catalina Trail should be your next destination. Perfect for adventure seekers, thru-hikers, and anyone who wants a world-class trail with a touch of comfort!
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