Catalina Hotels
Trans Catalina Trail and Catalina Island Hiking Trails
Catalina Island Hiking Trails - All hiking and mountain biking on Catalina outside Avalon needs a permit now . Visit the http://www.catalinaconservancy.org/ site for more information.
Also, the LA planning department has a EXCELLENT pdf document on Catalina. Covers everything like - development, wildlife, marine life, access and descriptions of each cove, hiking and access on the island and just about everything else related to Catalina. This document would be a excellent reference to keep on your IPod, smartphone, or IPad. Some of the information is old but is still good. Best of all this document is free!
You can download the PDF on this page -
http://planning.lacounty.gov/view/santa_catalina_island_local_coastal_plan/
Hiking permits are required. They are free of charge, and available the day of your hike.
Hiking permits are issued for day hiking only and not for overnight camping or backpacking.
Please use trash containers provided. When none is available, please carry refuse out with you. Section No. 374B of the California Penal Code covers the anti-littering act and its enforcement.
Tree cutting or gathering of wood, plant collecting, or in any way removing or defacing any natural or man made feature, including archaeological sites, is prohibited.
Do not disturb wildlife. All plants and animals are protected. Many are found only in Catalina and are rare and/or endangered species.
No hiker shall carry firearms, traps or other hunting equipment while in the interior of Catalina.
Hitchhiking is prohibited.
Carry a signed permit while hiking.
Dogs must be held on a leash while in the interior of Catalina.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the interior island trails which is much friendlier than the National Parks that only allow them on maintained roads. Also, from what I have read, Island Packers allows dogs on their boats as long as you sit outside and have a muzzle on the dog during the trip. That seems fair since they don't want to have to worry about a dog freaking out and biting the passengers. I would call both the Island Conservancy and Catalina Express before you go over and see what the requirements are to take a dog on Catalina. Also, you might want to write the Chamber of Commerce and see what city regulations the city of Avalon has on dog. However, if you and your dog are hiking the inner island trails you are probably just passing through Avalon. But, if you are going over for the day for the zipline tour, you might see if anyone in your party is not doing the zipline and let them baby sit your dog in Hamilton Cove. And you might want to stay at the campground if you spend the night in Avalon with your dog. From what I have read, the locals HATE dogs and don't want them on the island, their beaches or roads. Seems very odd since your dog is allowed on the sensitive island trails with a permit. They probably don't like dogs due to the close quarters and tiny roads in the city and hardly any parks, grass parkways, or space. Avalon is a city in miniature and is not a great place for large people or big friendly dogs.
Adhere to all regulations that govern your travel in the back country. As a visitor you have the responsibility to leave the natural environment free of any permanent imprints. Stay on roads and trails.
Source: Catalina Conservancy
Map shows major Catalina Island trail locations, trailheads and mile markers. Major trails on Catalina can be primary roads, dirt roads, fire breaks, and single track trails. Major trials on Catalina Island are - Trans Catalina Trail, Cottonwood Trail, Bulrush Canyon Trail, and Herman Gulch Trail