Trans-Catalina Trail
~4 days · 38.1 mi · moderate · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the Trans-Catalina Trail is known for
The Trans-Catalina Trail crosses Santa Catalina Island off the Southern California coast, known for ocean views, resident bison, and ridgeline climbs between coastal campgrounds.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 26 ft to 1,631 ft over 38.1 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 16.2 mi · 44%
- Downhill 11.4 mi · 31%
- Flat 9.5 mi · 26%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the Trans-Catalina Trail?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Trans-Catalina Trail scores 33/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Best season & permits
Season: Year-round; hottest and driest in late summer.
Permits: A free hiking permit and campsite reservations are required.
Official trail & permit info
Always confirm current conditions, closures, and permit rules with the managing authority before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Trans-Catalina Trail take?
Most backpackers hike the Trans-Catalina Trail in about 4 days (3 nights out) over its 38.1 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Trans-Catalina Trail?
The Trans-Catalina Trail climbs roughly 9,249 ft total — about 243 ft per mile, topping out near 1,713 ft.
When is the best time to hike the Trans-Catalina Trail?
Year-round; hottest and driest in late summer.
Do you need a permit for the Trans-Catalina Trail?
A free hiking permit and campsite reservations are required.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.