01
Epic island traverse
Trans-Catalina Trail from Avalon
Trailhead Above Avalon Canyon • Multi-Day Backcountry Route • Best For Seasoned Hikers
A demanding, view-heavy route that carries you from Avalon into Catalina’s remote interior and on toward Two Harbors and beyond.
Starting in the hills above Avalon, the Trans-Catalina Trail quickly trades town noise for sweeping ocean views, steep climbs, and long, rolling ridgelines. Most hikers tackle it as a multi-day backpack with overnights at established campgrounds, though strong hikers sometimes sample it as a long out-and-back day hike from Avalon. Expect exposed sections, serious elevation changes, and some of the most wide-open island scenery you’ll find anywhere in Southern California.
02
Classic Avalon climb
Hermit Gulch Trail to Lone Tree Point
Hermit Gulch Campground Area • Steep Canyon And Ridge Hike • Local Favorite Workout
A short but stout climb from Avalon Canyon to a high ridge, rewarded with big views back over town and the channel.
From Hermit Gulch Campground, this trail wastes no time heading uphill, switchbacking out of the canyon toward the island’s spine. Once you gain the ridge, the grade eases and the views widen, with Avalon, the harbor, and the Pacific spreading out below. Continue toward Lone Tree Point for a quieter stretch of trail and a real sense of how quickly Avalon gives way to wild, open country.
03
Best short summit
Garden to Sky Trail
Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden • Short Scenic Summit Trail • Best First-Day Hike
A relatively quick climb from the botanic garden to a high point with views toward both sides of the island.
This route starts at the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden and works its way up a well-used trail to a saddle aptly nicknamed the “sky” for its wide-open feel. The payoff is a sweeping panorama that takes in Avalon Canyon behind you and hints of the island’s more remote coastlines in the distance. It’s a perfect introduction hike if you’ve just arrived on the island and want big views without committing to an all-day push.
04
Easiest scenic walk
Avalon Bay Trail
Avalon Waterfront • Paved Coastal Promenade • Best Easy Stroll
A relaxed harborfront walk that strings together Avalon’s waterfront, Descanso Beach, and postcard-worthy bay views.
If you want scenery without steep climbs, the Avalon Bay Trail is your move. Following the curve of the harbor, you’ll pass shops, the historic Casino building, and quiet stretches of shoreline where you can watch boats swing on their moorings. It’s more of a walking path than a backcountry hike, but the waterfront atmosphere and easy access make it a must-do leg-stretcher for any visit.
05
Big interior loop
Stage Road to Divide Road to Hermit Gulch Loop
Interior Ridgeline Above Avalon • Long Ridge And Canyon Loop • Best For Full-Day Explorers
A longer loop that links old roads and trails into a satisfying circuit from Avalon up onto the island’s main divide and back.
This loop leaves Avalon on Stage Road, climbs steadily toward Divide Road, then follows the high ridgeline before dropping back toward town via Hermit Gulch. Along the way you’ll trade harbor views for rolling inland hills, wide dirt roads, and glimpses of Catalina’s more remote valleys. It’s a great choice if you want a full-day outing that feels adventurous but still loops you right back into Avalon by late afternoon.