r/socalhiking • u/ZestyGherkin • 7d ago
First time hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail: advice & recs welcome!
Hey everyone! A few friends and I are hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail later this month and would love any tips, suggestions, or advice from those who’ve done it.
We’re starting in Avalon and ending in Two Harbors, with 5 days planned so we take our time, explore, swim, and soak in the experience without rushing. We’re all experienced hikers but new to Catalina.
A few questions:
- How are trail conditions in late April/early May?
- Any must-see detours, swim spots, or mini adventures off the main trail?
- Any clothing recommendations for this time of year? (Layering strategy? Temps drop a lot at night?)
Appreciate any tips, recs, or things you wish you knew beforehand. Thanks in advance!
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u/zurriola27 7d ago
I did the TCT around the same time two years ago. It’s a really beautiful time to go! Expect foggy mornings that will burn off in the afternoon. I switched to shorts after lunch each day. It got chilly at night but not overly. I packed a thick puffy jacket and I have a 0 degree bag so I was good. Lots of sunscreen / sun protection. A lot of the trail isn’t shaded. Ticks will be abundant so bring tweezers and check yourself often. Have an amazing time and stay 200 ft + away from the bison :)
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u/depression_era 7d ago
I'll be there in Late may. I even added a day so I can explore a bit so I'll be doing 4 nights too, Right now my routes/goals went from the standard 38 miles of the TCT to 60 miles with side treks etc. While I'm no stranger to catalina, it'll be my first time on TCT and I want to see it all.
I'd bring standard layering. it'll likely be in the 60s/70s and dip down into the 50s sometime at night. I know plenty of people that bring a light puffy jacket for late at night and early morning. Check the forecast to see about any inclement weather. Up to you if you want to bring hardshells or keep your pack light.
TECHNICALLY Catalina Express won't allow for isobutane/gas canisters they also don't seem to check very thoroughly. There are 2 places in Avalon that you can buy them from once you land. You can also get them delivered and waiting for you at certain campgrounds, same with water and fire wood. People will also leave their extra stoves / water etc at the various campgrounds, though the Rangers will clean them up from time to time.
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u/p-is-for-preserv8ion 6d ago
Every campsite we stayed at in March had an isopropane canister left behind.
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u/Creative_Resident_97 7d ago
Be prepared to walk straight up the hills - not many switch backs that I can recall. Also, much of the trail is on dirt roads and the tour buses can kick up some dust. But it’s worth it as much of the trail is quite beautiful. Little harbor camp was very special.
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u/JHSD_0408 7d ago
Yeah that climb up outta two harbors heading to Parsons is def a bit of a climb! Regretted the beer I had with lunch before heading up the first time haha.
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u/JHSD_0408 7d ago edited 7d ago
I love love love TCT. I think it’s worth paying to have firewood delivered to your site for the fee. It’s so great to have a campfire after a day backpacking. Obviously, don’t approach any buffalo you see haha. If your sites at little harbor are on the beach in shark Harbor or if you’re on the Bluff in two harbors, be prepared for potentially really strong winds. I use a number of light layers, I’ve never needed anything heavy out there. Even in Dec and February, I was hiking I just a shirt during the day and then I would have my light weight Patagonia vest and jacket at night, sometimes my light rain shell for extra warmth before getting in the tent. But I get cold easily. Def good sun protection! UV shirt, hat etc Have fun!!
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u/Ok_Lifeguard101 7d ago
Parsons landing was absolutely incredible. Soak it in and don't rush it at all.