Catalina’s interior offers beautiful vistas
Many Catalina Island visitors never find out for themselves what lies beyond the confines of Avalon. Surrounded by high hills and the Pacific, the quaint village is often the only picture of Santa Catalina that some visitors ever see. Avalon, however is only a tiny portion of the wonder of Catalina Island.
Encompassing about 76 square miles, the rest of Santa Catalina Island is a wonderland of dramatic vistas, unique species and undeveloped wildlands stretching as far as the eye can see. Exploring Catalina’s interior is an adventure open to everyone, from the thrill seeker to the armchair traveler.
One of the most dramatic ways to explore is via the Trans Catalina Trail, a hiking expedition that stretches from one end of the island to the other. A multi-day commitment, the trail includes dramatic elevation changes that will challenge many hikers and offers rewards of dramatic seascapes and compelling wildlife. For those who prefer to keep their feet a little more stationary, tours are also available, ranging from off-the-beaten road Jeep Eco-Tours to bus transportation to the Airport-in-the-Sky. Local Catalina companies also offer guided experiences to the interior.