Trans-Catalina Trail Hiking Guide

Questions

How long is the Trans-Catalina Trail?

The Catalina Island Conservancy gives the trail as 38.5 miles, from Avalon to Two Harbors by way of the Silver Peak Trail, Parsons Landing and the West End Road. My own GPS recorded 42.2 miles over two days, with about 7,500 ft of climbing, because it includes the walk through Avalon to the trailhead, a side trip to the airport building and the climb to my lodge.

Do you need a permit for the Trans-Catalina Trail?

Yes. The Conservancy requires a free hiking permit for everyone, which you book by date on its website or pick up at its Trailhead visitor center in Avalon. You also need a reservation for every campground you sleep in; wild camping isn't allowed.

Is there water on the Trans-Catalina Trail?

Only from taps: at Hermit Gulch, Haypress Reservoir, Black Jack Campground, the Airport in the Sky, Little Harbor and Two Harbors. There's none between Two Harbors and Parsons Landing, and none at Parsons Landing, where you buy a locker with a jug of water. The Conservancy says to be able to carry 3 liters, and about a gallon a day in heat.

Where does the Trans-Catalina Trail end?

At Two Harbors. The Conservancy moved the end from Starlight Beach: from Two Harbors the trail now loops up the Silver Peak Trail to Parsons Landing and back along the West End Road. Starlight Beach is a side trip from Parsons Landing.

How do you get to the Trans-Catalina Trail?

By boat. Catalina Express sails from San Pedro, Long Beach and Dana Point to Avalon, where the trail starts, and only from San Pedro to Two Harbors, where it ends, so most hikers go out of San Pedro and come back to San Pedro. In 2026 the booking page showed $44.50 each way for an adult, plus taxes and fees, and from late October to late March there are no Two Harbors boats on Tuesdays or Thursdays.

Can you hike the Trans-Catalina Trail in 2 days?

Yes: I did, in July 2020, about 20 miles a day, with a night at Little Harbor Campground. Most people take three to five days. Two long days need an early start, a lot of water and a campsite at Little Harbor.