Trans Catalina Trail (TCT) Hike Guide - HikingGuy.com
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- čas přidán 30. 04. 2021
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The Trans Catalina Trail, a mini, 38.5-mile thru-hike across the rugged island of Catalina, is a very doable adventure for almost every hiker and backpacker. Most people take between two and five days to complete the trail, which winds its way around Catalina. Along the way, you’ll experience expansive ocean views, the unique Channel Islands ecology, challenging terrain, and spectacular beachside campgrounds. In this complete Trans Catalina Trail (TCT) guide, I’ll show you everything you need to know to hike the trail and plan it out so that it’s a perfect fit for your hiking abilities.
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Delve into the heart of Southern California's natural splendor on the Trans Catalina Trail (TCT), a captivating 38.5-mile journey that takes hikers across Catalina Island's most awe-inspiring landscapes. This trail, a gem of the Golden State's hiking scene, provides a unique opportunity to discover California's diverse ecosystems and stunning ocean views.
Located just off the coast, the TCT is a stone's throw away from the mainland but feels like an entirely different world. Every twist and turn of the trail offers a fresh perspective on the island's beauty - from lush valleys to scenic hilltops, and from tranquil coves to wild buffalo roaming in their natural habitat.
Embarking on the Trans Catalina Trail is an adventure like no other. Each day, hikers tackle challenging terrains, earning panoramic views that stretch from the Pacific Ocean to the mainland. Along the way, unique opportunities to witness local flora and fauna - such as the endemic Catalina Island Fox - create unforgettable memories and remarkable photo opportunities.
But the TCT isn't just for experienced hikers. With its well-maintained trails and numerous campsites, it caters to outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you're planning a multi-day hike or a simple day-trip, the Trans Catalina Trail can accommodate your adventure.
Don't miss out on this incredible experience. The TCT is accessible year-round, making it a must-visit destination for those who yearn for the beauty of Southern California's great outdoors. Immerse yourself in the magic of the Trans Catalina Trail and fall in love with hiking in the Golden State all over again.
Remember to plan ahead, stay safe, and tread lightly to maintain the pristine conditions of this beautiful trail. With each step on the Trans Catalina Trail, you're not just walking on a path - you're part of California's vibrant and evolving outdoor narrative.
So, lace up your hiking boots and join the community of explorers who have made the Trans Catalina Trail a part of their journey. Unforgettable vistas, natural wonders, and the spirit of adventure are waiting for you in Southern California on the Trans Catalina Trail. Experience the magic for yourself.
I did this hike when it was still 52 miles and included Starlight Beach, back in 2015 and it was a lot of fun. The reservations have gotten so much easier and planning is much better now. Doing it again this fall with family using the gear haul options - glamping style! But I loved doing it ultralight backpacking back then too. A great beginner trail because you can get off this trail easily if you need to. Happy Times!
You are a National Treasure! I am about to embark on my first thru-hike, and this video has been my lodestar.
Ha thank you 🙏👍 and have fun out there!
Agreed, same
Beautiful views!!! 😍
I enjoy the vocabulary you use to describe the geographic features.
Great description of this trail. My favorite is always the map at the end.
just checked out your website. looks like a great resource for those of us in SoCal. happy trails
Ive been using his videos and website for a few years now. Never do a new to me trail, before checking in with the Hiking Guy!
Found your guide first and then the video! Both are great resources thanks for all the info! Booked our trip based on your guide doing 5 days! Really looking forward to it!
Always enjoy your videos it lets me take a kinda hike even when I can’t get out, thank you.
Great to hear, thank you 👍
Enjoyed this video.
That was an exceptional video! Thank you so much for sharing. I had already started researching this trail, and you added so much information to it. I appreciate you!
My son and I just did this in the beginning of April. We did 5 days and 4 nights. Absolutely amazing experience. Grueling hike that we swore we would not continue when rolling into camp every night. Every morning we got up and felt like a million bucks and pushed on.
Ha nice, and yea, I know the feeling. Many times I've collapsed at night with a bailout on my mind... next morning, keep going. So much of it is mental.
How old are you?
I just hiked from Mammoth to Tuolumne Meadows and as a flatlander from the desert, it really exhausted me. I did the almost 40 miles in 3 days and 2 nights. I’m planning to do the TCT with camp reservations at Gulch, Blackjack, Little Harbor, Two Harbors, and finally Parsons. I’m hoping this is much easier than my last hike, but your comments scare me a little. At least I don’t need to carry as much food or water this trip and no bear canister. The first full day from Avalon to Black Jack looks the hardest. Im wondering what walking speed I should estimate? In the Sierra’s I was slow as 1 mph, but I’m hoping I go at least 1 1/2 or 2 mph.
Oh…and I’m 63.
Was it already hot in April? great job for being a great dad your son is very fortunate.
Impressive trail on a really sweet island!
Yea, the great thing is that because the island is so small and the trail is so high, there are points where you can see clear across, which is pretty cool.
Great Video! I just happened to book my campsites today for my TCT trip in September!
Awesome, congrats on scoring the campsite and have fun! 👍
On my way bro. Thanks for the video
Awesome, thank you for this, very well done & useful!
Thank you 👍
Wow, I just did this too, inmid April, was so beautiful!
Just led a group of scouts and adults on this two weeks ago. Epic! Your guide and feedback were invaluable, thank you!!!
Awesome, great to hear, thank you!
Thanks for your fabulous videos and site!
WHOAAA big big thank you!!
I need to add this location to my list!
Great video, have wanted hike on Catalina Island for a while, but didn't know the specifics.
Thank you 🙏 yea it's a unique one, worth trying at least once.
This looks gorgeous, and would be amazing in fall or very early Spring. It would suck in Summer. Are the camping sites for tents only, or do they have cabins?
Hello and thank you so much for putting all this info together !
I'm taking my son do do the TCT for his 21st birthday 👍super excited 🙂! We are planning on going late September early October 2023 were hikers coming from Vancouver Island so are ready for the challenge . We would like to do the hike in reverse so we can take 2 days after the hike in Avalon and the only way to do that is start in 2 harbours any extra advice for the reverse hike would be appreciated. Were just waiting for the fall ferry service to come out end of August to book camping sites first. Figuring on taking our time and do it in the 3 nights/4 day option.
I''d say just take time in planning out your itinerary and hike timing so that you hit the campsites when you expect to - have fun!
Great video and commentary! I'm hiking it this weekend and found a lot of very useful information here! How long did it take you to hike it?
Thank you 👍 Check out the guide in the link for itineraries and timing. On this trip I did it in 2 days.
Great stuff! Never done it, but have wanted too. Know where to go for great info now. Hiked Silver Peak from Emerald Bay....holy smoke that is steep! Great views though.
Man, Silver Peak from Emerald Bay must have been brutal. I haven't done Silver Peak yet but it's on my list for later this year. Going to try and bag some day hikes on Catalina. And def give the TCT a try, it's a classic.
@@Hikingguy it was and I failed to mention it was July and a heat wave was in effect...it was 80 when we hit the trail at 4AM. It was nasty, but that view and sunrise was something. Take care...going to do the TCT one of these days.
As always, love all your content! So incredibly helpful. Do you need to pick up any permits, keys or security codes for the water/wood deliveries at Little Harbor and Parsons Landing campgrounds?
I would just give the center a call for what they're doing now - I haven't done it this year - 310.510.4205
@@Hikingguy thanks!
@@Hikingguy FYI - for anyone else reading this comment, I went last weekend and they gave me a code at the center in Two Harbors which is really close to where the trail continues to Parson's Landing. czcams.com/video/TwQK36Ungfc/video.html
Hi there. Thank you very much for your super informative videos and articles. I'm learning a lot from them. I will be hiking the TCT in early November. Do you think it will be warm enough to pack a 55°F and a light liner for camping on the beaches there? Many thanks
Yes that should work but I'd check the forecast right before you go
Thanks for the helpful video! Were you able to buy campstove fuel on the island? I saw you can't have it on the ferry.
You can pick it up in the Conservancy store in Avalon but the reality is that no one has ever asked me if I have stove fuel in my bag on the ferry. And don't really think there's any risk there.
GREAT GUIDE SIR! did you pack any food ? i didn’t see that as park of your list
👍 when I camp I'll pack ProBars for snacks and freeze-dried food - generally I'll stop for lunch at the airport cafe and sometimes order a burrito to go
Another awesome and informative video. Thank you! You must've pissed one guy off though; I notice there's always just one downvote on your videos! :D Have you ever thought about doing the Silver Moccasin Trail in the San Gabriels??
Ha thank you, yea, I always wonder about that. Someone always gives just about every video a thumbs down. If it were legit I just wish they'd leave some feedback so I could address whatever the problem is. 'Tis life on the internet. And for Silver Moccasin, it's on the list. I've done sections of it over the years but never the whole thing in one go. Have to check whether some of it is closed from the Bobcat. Hopefully this Fall
BBS!
Did you have any problems with the weight of your gear on the ferry? Thanks!
nope, there's no check or anything for backpacks
How did you secure your food each night?
There are storage lockers at all the campsites.
@@Hikingguy Thanks!! I cannot tell you how grateful I am for your videos and website! I am an Eagle Scout and used to work with another young men's adventure program and now am doing more hiking on my own and have used your videos a TON!!
@@Jesteraron Thank you! Glad everything has been helpful! 👍👍
What month did you film this?
April
If you want to appreciate this Catalina hike more check out this video.
czcams.com/video/RY0iAAnZer0/video.html
Okay, I did the THRU WALK!! last week. Glad it is over and done with! To my Tramily who is wants to get this WALK off your bucket list. #1 This is Not a trail hike! It is a gravel road walk, The Conservancy is a damn joke! They are nothing more than a security/ janitorial (piss poor at that) front for the long time locals who for the most part are unemployable. #2 The Gas Guzzling trucks of the "Conservancy" do not slow down on the dusty gravel roads thus you better have a buff ready to cover your face at the endless trucks that leave dust trails for miles and miles! The signs say in the Campgrounds, ( Little harbor best by far ) DO NOT Gather Wood, Really! that means all the drift wood on the beach from the rains! I assure you the "Conservancy" do not even pick up the palm frons and dumped them in a huge pile behind the trees at little harbor, they also state their is Zero water at Parsons Landing. First of all on the other side thru the brush of Campsite#8 there is a beautiful spring running for the time being, ( that is why they are called springs, Heehee) not only is it running at a excellent rate but all the hikers who fall for the "Conservancy" scam of 25 bucks for 4 pieces of wet wood and 2 gallons of water! the Walkers who leave Parson's have left when I was there last week over 25 gallons of water located at the lockers! The Boyscout camp which is only half a mile from Parsons C.G. has not one but two! drinking fountains 10 feet off the road for all the obvious reasons! When I returned to 2 harbors I visited with the "conservancy" director and she had a canned excuse/exclamation for my Q's, When I showed her photo's of the creek and all the 20 plus gallon water jugs she said (I kid you not) that the creek is only seasonal and the quantity of water is no guarantee, This is OFF SEASON! and there were 20 plus jugs! imagine how many are left behind when it is busy? She then had the Audacity to accuse me of "TRESSPASSING" onto the Boyscout Camp property when I showed her pics of the 2 drinking fountains less than 10 feet from the road. I had to show her the pics and it was quite obvious to me that she didn't even know they were there. This woman struggled to get out of her office chair do you really believe that she has "WALKED" the road to Parsons in decades if Ever!. Believe it or not there are also some awesome positive experiences I had with some fellow road walkers and mountain bikers. So It was not all for naught. As another senior hiker that I met at the current Dog Park Campground behind 2 harbors admin. buildings for 40 bucks, he said, ONE AND DONE! we agreed on all concerns and issues. So in conclusion my fellow thru hikers, back country hikers/ tramily you have been warned. If I can give any wisdom and advice for this "WALK" .. Do not "hike/walk" length of this island BIKE it and getter done and call it a day.. The locals are not warm and fuzzy as they were when I hiked/walked Gibraltar, The Camino, Santorini , the coast of Tangiers just 3 years ago. Hike On, Rich "Wood-Mon" PCT88.
Excellent vid for my future hike, The fact there is very few trees on trail what month did you thru hike? Thanks, Rich "wood-mon" . in Pismo..
this was shot in March