Hiking & Backpacking

Explore the Wonders of Catalina Island on Foot

Hikers and backpackers love Two Harbors for its diverse terrain and incredible views. Whether you're taking a day hike from your hotel or backpacking the Trans Catalina Trail, Two Harbors is the perfect place to start your journey. Free hiking permits are required and are available at Two Harbors Visitor Services.

A Variety of Terrain

The Two Harbors offers terrain ranging from easy to difficult, allowing both casual hikers and serious trekkers to find trails that fit their endurance level. Some trails follow existing roads, while others meander over rolling terrain and up steep ridges. All trails offer expansive canyon, ocean and mainland views.

Backpacking Catalina is a great way to see more of the island while enjoying a variety of sites. An ideal trip is to arrive at one port (Avalon or Two Harbors), backpack through the interior, and then depart from the other port.

World-Class Campground

There are five campgrounds maintained by the Catalina Island Company, along with several primitive boat-in campsites. Three seaside campgrounds include Two Harbors, Parsons Landing, and Little Harbor on the island's backside. Blackjack is in the interior near Mt. Orizaba, while Hermit’s Gulch is in the back of Avalon Canyon.

These campgrounds offer ample overnight sites that are available by reservation only. Limited service on the Catalina Island Conservancy Wildlands Express Shuttle runs between Avalon and the Airport-in-the-Sky and Little Harbor.

Catalina Island Conservancy Hiking Map
Catalina Island Maps