Trans Catalina Trail Hiking and Backpacking Guide
38-MILE BEGINNER-FRIENDLY THRU-HIKE ON CATALINA ISLAND WITH BEACHES, SWIMMING, AND A MILD CLIMATE
BACKGROUND
The Trans Catalina Trail (TCT) is a 38-mile hiking and backpacking trail on Santa Catalina Island (aka, Catalina Island), the largest of the Channel Islands off the coast of southern California. It runs from the town of Avalon, CA to Parson's Landing Campsite via the town of Two Harbors, CA. Due to its Mediterranean climate, the TCT has mild temperatures year-round and can even be hiked in winter.
With beach and mountain views, rare wildlife, and beach-side campsites with opportunities for swimming, the Trans Catalina Trail is a good choice for first-time thru-hikers and hiking with dogs in cooler months. With frequent drinking fountains and restrooms, restaurants, and well-spaced out campsites, the TCT is a good option for a first thru-hike. I've hiked the trail three times, both eastbound and westbound. Here are my tips and strategies for the Trans Catalina Trail.
February 10, 2024
Liz Thomas
Explore More Content
Media Mentions
Zenovia Stephens, ...told SELF it was her favorite bug spray for hikes and backpacking trips, and that she used it on herself as well as her kids.
Media Mentions
[Sawyer Picaridin] the best bottle of bug spray we found after testing over 25 repellents and talking to everyone from the EPA to the American Mosquito Control Association.
.png)
Media Mentions
We have found the most effective and long-lasting solution to be a portable hollow fibre membrane filter that eliminates 99.99999% of harmful bacteria, the most common form of contamination seen in fresh surface water, rainwater and wells.
From the Squad
Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.
