You can still ask questions about the Trans-Catalina Trail — just do it here in the Trans-Catalina Trail forum.

We are planning to do a shorten version of this trip and had some questions.

1. We plan on taking a ferry into Two Harbors and either hiking to Parsons Landing or Little Harbor, which do you recommended?

2. I am leaning towards Parsons Landing since you said that was the best campsite.

3. How long does the Hike take each way? Is it uphill from Parsons Landing back to Two Harbors?

It’s an exposed trail and can be really hot as the sun beats down on you. I’m not saying you can’t or shouldn’t, but I personally wouldn’t. It might turn out to be wonderful weather, but IMO the best time is spring, followed by fall.

I spoke with an employee at the Two Harbors visitor center. Dogs are allowed at Black Jack, Little Harbor and Parsons campgrounds only. Maybe policy changed? Still have some research to do, but that sounded pretty official to me.

Where are you seeing dogs are allowed at BJ, LH, and Parson’s? The Camping FAQ (http://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/camping-and-boating/camping-faqs) says pets aren’t allowed. Did something change?

Based on the way our timing works out and camp site availability, we have to choose between seeing all of your (Day One) itinerary (Avalon to the reservoir, Catalina Airport, camping at Black Jack), leaving us only 1 night at Parson’s Landing. The alternative is we take the Safari Bus to the Airport, hike into Little Harbor and camp, then 2 nights camping at Parson Landing.

I know this isn’t technically hiking the entire Trans-Catalina, but in our case we have to prioritize. Looking back at your experience, do you feel we’d be missing some pretty awesome terrain by skipping the Avalon to Black Jack section? Or, do you feel like camping one night at Little harbor and 2 at Parson’s is worth it!?

Thanks in advance my friend.

Great, thanks Jeff

I shoot for a base weight of 15-20 lbs. add to that food, water and fuel and I carry 25-30 lbs — not super light, but it works for me.

This trip looks phenomenal…hoping to bring a group from New Mexico. Two questions: 1) Is there a trail limit on hikers? 2) Can you primitive camp along the trail to break up the distance between some of the campsites?

Thank you.

Woody

I was able to successfully hike the trail. Got to the Avalon Monday afternoon and set up camp at Gulch. Then first thing in the morning headed out. Was going to stop and stay at Black Jack but was convinced by the guy working at Gulch to hike through that and camp at Little Harbor. Was very grateful for the advice as I made it in perfect time to set up camp, relax, and eat some food while watching the sunset. The lack of people made it even better.

This is where things got a little tricky, as most things do when I’m involved. The wind really picked up during the night and since my phone died I couldn’t check the time (don’t have a watch, I know, it’s dumb). So I used the time that was on my cameras settings. Well I thought I’d pack up and leave to start the hike while it was dark due to the time on my camera implying the sun would come up soon. Well turns out the time on my camera was dead wrong and I hiked all the way from Little Harbor to Two Harbors in the dark!

I have to say though, it was the most magical moment for me and I’m grateful for the mistake. Walking along the cliffs, in the dark alone with the full moon shining down on my and the ocean, casting shadows on everything with the cold wind blowing. It was a moment that I’m sure will stay with me for a while and something I doubt many people experience as I’m sure no one would plan to hike in the dark.

Well anyway all in all, a beautiful hike and as much as I’d like to go back soon, it was quite an expensive trip for me (a college student who had to buy most things for the first time: tent, supplies, etc) so I’m not sure when I’ll be returning. I’d love to go back though in the summer and see what it’s like during a nice warm season. Anyway, great hike, great island, would recommend it for everyone. Although if you plan on hiking the trail, be physically fit. I was fine, but anyone with little to no experience hiking wouldn’t of made it.

Thanks!

@John You can reserve once you get on the island, but you need to do it in Avalon or Two Harbors before you start your hike. Not sure how crowded it will be. There is no way to pay for a campsite at the campgrounds, as far as I know.

For food, it really depends on you. My answer would be “whatever you would usually take on a two day backpack.” It’s not easy hiking, and I don’t recommend this as a first time backpack, if that’s what it’s going to be for you. For a first time backpack that’s really nice, I recommend Chumash Trail or La Jolla Trail to the backcountry campground at Point Mugu State Park. http://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/upload/PointMuguSP_Map_LAMountains_1.jpg

Good luck.

Also, a general question, how much food/what type would you recommend for a hiking? I plan on going from Avalon to Blackjack, then Blackjack to Two Harbors. So two days full hiking. What would you recommend in terms of food? Thanks.

What do you know about the Rancho Escondido trail? Its not part of the TCT but it skirts it and also goes to Little Harbor. There is the old horse ranch there and an up and coming vineyard. Sounds better than Sheep Chute which I understand is steep.

I just booked campsites for Labor Day Weekend and I was required to book two nights at Black Jack. I’m only going to be there for one and would love to sell or give away the first night. Any idea if there is a forum anywhere for Catalina hikers/campers where we might find someone interested?

Thanks!

That page also has the phone number you can call, though they say that reservations made by phone add ten bucks to the cost.

Also thank you for all the helpful advice.

Per your advice and the advice of others, I’m hiking the trail over five days: Avalon>Black Jack (one night)>Little Harbor (one night)>Parsons (two nights, with full day to visit Starlight Beach)> Two Harbors. I’m going in August, which is not ideal, but it’s when I’ll be down there for a work trip, so better hot and dusty than not at all.

A question: Can the lockers be relocked/used for anti-critter gear storage? I’m asking because I’ll be traveling light, with a tarp shelter that does not seal out foxes, chipmunks, or crows. Ideally, the lockers would work like bear boxes.

Hi JaneLeeb! The Trans-Catalina Trail from the ridgeline down to Parsons Landing is super-steep. We had boots and trekking poles, and it was still treacherous.

In contrast, the coastal route between Two Harbors and Parsons is a relative breeze and fairly flat. I know which one I would choose… 😉

I am planning a test hike from Two Harbors to Parsons Landing via the coast trail (West End Rd?). I am worried about the last bit going in to Parsons. I am post surgery from broken/pinned leg. Is the coast trail as hard as the TCT?

My son and I just did Catalina last week (Two Harbors to Parsens Landing to Little Harbor to BlackJack to Hermit gulch). Fantastic hike, and like you said Jeff, this hike is no joke! I would rate it as difficult, given the vertical and steepness of some parts of the trail. Some things we learned for others: 1) Beware the crows/ravens…they are aggressive little thieves and flew away with my smartphone, a knife, spatula, dish scrubber and ov-glove at Parsens Landing. Leave NOTHING outside your tent! 2)the foxes in Hermit Gulch campground have been trained by the crows apparently…one was in our tent cabin in the middle of the night trying to pinch some food…woke me up. 3) signage marking the trail I would describe as poor in some critical spots (like at the Microwave tower where the trail branches and there is no signage – – we took the wrong way and it cost us an hour…the Ranger even told us the trail signs are bad). All-in-all a fantastic adventure so I have no complaints. Oh and one more thing: use wool socks, not cotton! We did not know this basic thing and our feet got very sore.

Keith, not recommended. Do rangers patrol? Yes, but I never saw one on the trail — just the campgrounds. Water would be a very real concern. Personally, I would save until you can afford the permits (which include the water). My $0.02 worth.

It’s not allowed. The fee is for the permit to camp. You’re assigned a specific campsite, and it includes the water. You have the option of adding firewood to the permit as well, but you can’t camp without a permit, and the permit includes the water.

Hi Jeff: Thanks for the reply. I decided to take ferry to Two Harbors, hike the island and them take the suttle from Avalon. Just did it in reverse. I was able to get the last reservation at Parson’s that matched our itinerary, so we are in good shpe now. Bill

Bill, I’m certain that the bus goes from Avalon to Two Harbors first. I’m not certain about what time it leaves. Check with their site — they can fill in on the details.

I’m traveling this week, but I’ll make a note to add this info to the site when I get a chance.

That’s awesome, Annie! Glad you find the guide helpful. I hope you have a great time on Catalina, and let us know how it goes!

Now, once you finish the TCT at Starlight, no reason not to enjoy an easy hike back to Two Harbors along the coast. 🙂

I will doing the Trans-Catalina Trial next month from March 14-17. I’ve been reading your blog, in fact this is the site which swayed my decision to do the TCT rather than the San Bernardino Trail, I currently live in Albuquerque, and would much rather be surrounded by the ocean. Anyway I’m hoping to get your take on the route in which to take. I was planning on Landing at Avalon, and hiking to the Blackjack campground, I believe the next stop is going to be Two Harbors; this is where I get a little perplexed on which way to go, either the Silver Peak Trail, or the other trail that appears to run along the coast of the island. I have four days set aside for this and I am doing this my first backpacking trip, at that solo as well. So I’m looking for an experience beauty and challenges, I heard from someone that there are water falls on the island I think would be awesome to see even if it is out of my way. Hints, pointers, or direction as to where I could find some of this info would be greatly, greatly, appreciated.
-Thanks

Hmmm… better check with the Island to make sure you can pickup a locker key for Blackjack at Two Harbors. Not sure if they’re setup for that direction.

I’ve added a picture to the gallery with the monthly average high/low temperatures for Avalon, CA: https://socalhiker.net//hiking-trans-catalina-trail/#jp-carousel-12464

According to that chart, the average high in June is 71, and the average low is 60. Not bad.

But keep in mind that you will have a lot of sun exposure. It can feel a lot hotter when you’re hiking up a steep hill with a pack on your back and the sun beating down on you.

Hope this helps.

I completely agree. I can’t imagine what it must’ve been like with mud. Got any photos, Matthew?

Diane, it’s a rigorous trail. If I were to do just two days of hiking, I would probably start at Two Harbors and hike to Parsons Landing the first day. If you follow the Trans-Catalina Trail, it’s a rigorous climb to the ridge and then an VERY steep descent to Parsons Landing (trekking poles are essential). On Day Two, I’d do a day hike out-and-back to Starlight Beach (the western terminus of the trail) and back to Parsons Landing. Then I’d spend an extra day in Parsons Landing, then take the “easy” coastal route back to Two Harbors, spend one night at the campground there and then the ferry back to the mainland.

Bikes are not allowed on the Trans-Catalina Trail, but there are roads connecting Avalon and Two Harbors.

Christopher, I loved your video! You did a great job capturing the essence of the Trans-Catalina Trail (sans the sweat). Great photos, too. Everyone who reads this post should also take a look at both the video and photo links you shared… seriously!

I have been meaning for awhile now to post a follow up since we successfully completed the TCT back in September of last year. We used this website for extensive planning purposes, which helped immensely. We had a wonderful trip, covering just north of 55 miles in four days (13,000+’ of elevation gain).

We have posted an HD video of our journey: https://vimeo.com/75033767

As well as some still photos: http://styleandsyntax.com/2013/09/backpacking-the-tct-photos/

If there’s any advice I’d offer to anyone contemplating this trip, it’s the following:

(1) Take at least four days (we did: Avalon-Black Jack, Black Jack-Two Harbors, Two Harbors-Parson’s, Parson’s-Two Harbors).

(2) Bring hiking poles.

(3) Add extra water for delivery to Parson’s.

(4) Be prepared for long days and a lot of elevation change. The TCT is no joke.

(5) Consider 3L hydration inserts (we took 2L ones and everyone ran out of water the first day a few miles from Black Jack).

(6) For a relaxing final day, return via the coastal route (it’s flat and has nice views; you will have already hiked the entire TCT the day before).

Thanks again to SoCalHiker for the detailed notes!

Did you take the fast Express, or the slow ferry?

Kevin wrote: “…was told that canister fuel is not allow on the boat”

First, I don’t know whether any store in Avalon sells Jetboil canisters (sorry).

I will say that the ferries don’t ask or inspect your backpacks. I’m sure many people have brought canisters tucked away in their backpack with no problem. Typically you will throw your pack on the deck at the back of the boat (where all the bikes are stored as well) and no one inspects them. I’m not advocating that you break any rules, just pointing out what I’ve observed.

I’m interested doing the same trip at end of the April.
I called Ferry and was told that canister fuel is not allow on the boat, I’m using Jetboil for cooking, do you know if there is any store in Avalon that sells that? I was told that Chad’s hardware have them but when I called they say they don’t have the particular one I’m looking for

Thanks

Jonathan wrote: …Do you know if it is mandatory for backpackers to stay at the campgrounds? Can one just procure water there?

The Conservancy only permits camping in established campgrounds. There is no free water available at Blackjack, Little Harbor or Parsons Landing. Your campground reservation includes a key to a locker at the campground where you’ll get jugs of water.

The campgrounds are okay. When we went, the only one that was crowded was Two Harbors (which is typical). Parsons Landing was fantastic, and next time I’ll stretch the trip and spend two nights there.

Samantha wrote: Wow! You make planning this backpacking trip easy. Thank you!

You’re welcome. 🙂

We’re planning on hiking the 4th week in December this year. Looking forward to it!

Lesley, I don’t see why not! It will be cold, and you should be prepared for rain. But there’s a certain beauty in that weather, too! Let me know how it goes.

SS Max, dogs are permitted on Catalina Island trails. The island is managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, who in their “Cautions and Policies” page state: “Dogs must be held on a leash while in the interior of Catalina.”

So yes, you can bring your dog, but you’ll have to keep them on leash. Probably a good idea anyway, given the rattlesnakes, bison and other critters.

Christopher, this is a great question! If you’re starting at Avalon and heading to Blackjack, you’ve got your work cut out for you — it’s a long day. An early start is HIGHLY recommended. Fortunately, you pickup your reservations at the front desk of the Atwater Hotel in Avalaon, which is staffed 24/7. So you can take the earliest ferry you can. Note that we took a ferry from Dana Point, which meant we didn’t get started until late in the morning. There are earlier ferries available from San Pedro and Newport Beach, but check their schedules to be sure.

Next time we do this, I’m going to spend the first night in Avalon, so I can get a really early start the next day.

Trying to figure out the logistics for the first day upon arriving in Avalon and had a couple of questions. What’s the very earliest (and at what location) one can pick up the camping reservations / hiking permit during the week? Wondering how much time we would lose that first day if arriving on the earliest morning ferry if we have to kill a few hours for an office to open so we can get our permits. Any other options for picking up the reservations/permit along the trail (e.g. at the airport) or by mail? Do you receive keys for all campgrounds at one location/time? Thanks!

That’s fantastic, Maria! I’m jealous. You should be hitting it right at the sweet spot for wildflowers and green hills. Have a great time, and let me know if you have any questions before hand, or if you have suggestions for improving the guide afterwards.

Here’s the skinny on temperatures. It gets downright chilly once the sun goes down, and this is often accompanied by a stiff breeze from the side of the island facing the Pacific. During the day, it can get quite warm, especially if it’s sunny. Most of the trail is exposed, so sun protection is key. The photos from our gallery were taken during the first week of April, and we had beautiful weather most days, chilly at night, and a little misty rain one day. I’m not a meteorologist, but I would say that it might be a little warmer, but who knows?! Best to be prepared.

Is Starlight worth it? To me, hiking the “whole” Trans-Catalina Trail was important. As it was, it was gray and gloomy and a little anti-climactic. However, if I had hiked earlier, and if it were sunny, it would probably look very different. And in fact, some of the people I met coming back from Starlight were very impressed (they caught it in the sun).

The trail itself is one of the more remote segments, and so you’ve got that going for it. I was joined for a while by a Catalina Fox, and that was a nice treat. And seeing “The End” of the island was pretty cool (although the trail doesn’t actually take you to there).

With all that in mind, and sense you’ve said you’re strong hikers, I would say go for it!

Parsons Landing on the other hand, is magnificent. Have a great trip, and let me know how it goes!

DPclimber, the way the water works is like this: You pay a campsite fee per person, which includes a key to a locker. Inside the locker is water and firewood, if you purchase it. If you need or want more, you can pay for that and I believe they will give you another key. It’s a pretty smart way for them to manage this, as they can stock up the lockers with water and firewood and hand out keys as needed.

Let me know how your birthday trip goes!

I am looking to tackle it in January for my birthday with some buddies.

The Islands website was a little vague about fresh water and I tried calling the to get some info but am having some trouble getting through. I was wondering if you knew what the water situation was at the campsites. I remember you saying that fresh water is included at each site but is the water included in your site fee or is does it cost extra?

Thanks!

how did your hike turn out? I just went in June.

I know this is late but the Taxi has to be chartered and I believe the fee is $180 for up to 6 people.

I agree completely. The downhill into Parsons requires trekking poles. Also, I used Salomon trail runners and it was fine. My 12 year old son hated that section. He has had a thing about downhills ever since he tipped forward and face planted on the downhill section of the Santa Anita loop. I think if we lighten his pack and as he gets bigger this issue should go away.

Good luck, Heidi! Let me know how it goes this time (how it went?).

We got very lucky when we went last year. It got very warm during the day, but mainly because the sun was out and we were hoofing it up and down the hills. I can only imagine what it would be like at 88 (or more) degrees. Yikes!

One thing I would warn is that the Trans-Catalina is a significant challenge. It was far more challenging than I expected, after all “it’s a little island.” Hah! Was I wrong!

Having said that, you will pay for transportation to and from the island, and then camping fees for each campsite. Add in food or supplies at Two Harbors and it can easily add up to over $100 per person, not counting the food you bring.

Backpacking on the mainland will be cheaper, but wow, this trail is such an amazing experience. It’s worth it.

Sorry to break this to you, but the Safari Bus is your cheapest option. There aren’t a lot of vehicles on the island, for obvious reasons.

Thanks, LindaBeth. Glad you found the site helpful!

Snorkeling or kayaking is definitely a possibility. I would recommend an early start. The days were long, and this time of the year you have even less daylight.

I would actually recommend you do that at either Two Harbors or Parsons Landing. Little Harbor is on the side of the island facing away from the coast, and much rougher water. Most people prefer water activities on the more sheltered side (Two Harbors, Parsons Landing and Avalon are all better choices).

As for the time, as I said, the hikes were long. We took our time, starting late and hiking pretty much until sundown. If you check out the stats from my hike on EveryTrail.com you’ll find all the details.

Have a great trip! Come back and let me know how it went.

I wanted to know if there’s enough time in Day 2 to go snorkeling or kayaking or 2 hours in Little Harbor.

I’m also curious, if you remember, how long each day took to hike.

thanks!

Thanks for all the tips. Your pictures are amazing.
We only have a day in Avalon, and your comments about the lack of shade en route to Blackjack gave me second thoughts about hiking from the airport back to Avalon. I’ve decided to do the 5 mile Hermit Gulch loop ending at the botanical garden. Next time with better planning, I hope to do the full TCT.

There are a few options from the Airport to Avalon, but I would say it depends on your time, ability and interest. If you’re just looking for a day hike, it’s problematic, as you need to get TO the airport first. Again, you can take the Safari Bus or a taxi, but those are expensive options.

If you fly to Catalina, this is an option, and I suppose you could hike down to Avalon and take the ferry back to the mainland.

As for the trail on the site you linked, I have been briefly on sections of that road where the Trans-Catalina Trail crosses or (briefly) follows the road. I personally didn’t enjoy that road, and would much prefer a hiking trail.

The Trans-Catalina Trail also runs between Avalon and the airport. It is a much more scenic route, but it is also much longer (probably close to 20 miles). You could shorten this by about 6-7 miles by taking the Hermit Gulch Trail to the ridgeline road and then following that to the airport.

Ultimately, it depends on your full itinerary. If you’re only there for a couple nights, I would recommend spending a night in Little Harbor, then hiking to Two Harbors on the Trans-Catalina Trail. It’s only about 5 miles, but it’s a challenging hike with some steep terrain. And the views are simply amazing.

http://gocalifornia.about.com/cs/catalina/a/catalinahiking.htm

Yes, you can take the Safari Bus from Avalon to Little Harbor.

The trail from Little Harbor to Two Harbors is pretty clearly marked. For the most part, you’ll follow the ridgeline up, up, and up to the top then a well marked trail down to Two Harbors. There were a couple sections where I scratched my head and said “THAT is the trail?!” In a few sections there are neon-colored nylon “brushes” planted in the ground that mark the trail. The major junctions are all well marked.

Thanks Peter! I’m sure you’ll have a great time. As for boots vs trail runners, that’s a pretty subjective decision. I hiked it in boots because I like the extra support when carrying a backpack. But the trails are not terribly rocky like some mountainous trails and trail runners would be okay.

Note that the final downhill section towards Parsons Landing is VERY steep. While trail runners should work fine, you may appreciate having trekking poles.

When you finish your trip, come back and post a reply to let me know how you enjoyed it!

Awesome! I think you’ll be fine, as long as you start hiking early in the morning. If I could do anything differently, I would hit the trail by 7am.

As for the 2-night minimum for campsites, that was not the case when I reserved mine. I tried to make reservations online, but it didn’t work. I called them and explained that I tried, etc., and they took my reservations over the phone and waived the normal $10 phone reservation fee. So I would suggest giving them a call and see what they say.

Finally, the ferry ride from Dana Point is roughly 90 minutes, but will depend on the conditions. That said, you will NOT get an early start on the trail if you take the earliest ferry from Dana Point. A better solution is to go on the last ferry the night before, spend a night at Hermits Gulch campground (just outside of Avalon — no hiking, really), and then get an early start on the trail in the morning.

Good luck, have fun, and let me know how it goes!

I think I saw you post a similar trip at Outdoors Club, but with backpacks transported to each campground. Was that you? Who are you using to do the gear transport?