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
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