Hermit Gulch Trail
A scenic trail on Catalina Island offering panoramic views, a popular segment of the Trans-Catalina Trail, and a chance to see bison.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Hermit Gulch Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic trail on Catalina Island offering panoramic views, a popular segment of the Trans-Catalina Trail, and a chance to see bison.
"The views are outstanding! Well worth the hike up for sunset."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Shade is minimal; stay hydrated!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be challenging, especially on loops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hermit Gulch Lookout
Mid-trail
Panoramic views of both sides of the island, perfect for sunset or sunrise photography.
Lone Tree Trail
Off Hermit Gulch Trail
A more challenging but rewarding path offering stunning vistas.
Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden
Via loop trail
A beautiful garden with restrooms and informative videos, a great stop on the return loop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hydration is Key!
Timing Your Ascent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Shade is minimal; stay hydrated!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be challenging, especially on loops.
🔦 Headlamps for Sunset
If hiking for sunset, bring a headlamp for the way down.
📸 Capture the Views
Great photo ops of Avalon harbor and island scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Shade is minimal; stay hydrated!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be challenging, especially on loops.
🔦 Headlamps for Sunset
If hiking for sunset, bring a headlamp for the way down.
📸 Capture the Views
Great photo ops of Avalon harbor and island scenery.
🦬 Bison Sightings Possible
Keep an eye out for the island's famous bison herd!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers praise Hermit Gulch Trail for its stunning island views and accessibility from Avalon, making it a popular choice for day trips and as a gateway to the Trans-Catalina Trail. While the climb can be challenging and shade is scarce, the rewarding vistas, especially at sunset, and the chance to see bison make it a highly recommended experience. +1
"A fantastic little trail that can be done in about 2-4 hours depending on your fitness level. It's 3 and change miles from Avalon itself, and you can make it an out-and-back or a loop trail if you continue onto the Divide Road to Garden To Sky Summit and return via the Wrigley Memorial. Bring plenty of water as shade is sparse, and the sun can be brutal!"
Noah Johnston
"Well worth the hike! We hiked up to see the sunset then hiked down using headlamps. The views are outstanding!
We actually went a little (1/4 mile?) past the lookout so we could see the sunset better.
The lookout was 2 miles from our tent in Hermit Gulch Campground, per our GPS."
Bruce Chamberlin
"easy path to follow . start early since there is little to no shade. we took the loop that was called sky to garden after making it to the top of hermit gulch trail . from the top you can view both sides of the island . definitely a climb bring plenty of water . worth the climb. on the way down went through wringleys botanical garden. had restrooms there and water and an informative videos playing ."
JJ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From the ferry landing in Avalon, you can walk through town to the start of the trail, which is about 1.6 miles.
While the trail itself is for hiking, you can drive to the Hermit Gulch Campground area, which is near the trailhead. Parking may be limited, especially during peak season.
Yes, Hermit Gulch Trail is a great option for a day hike. It's about 6.3 miles if you do a loop incorporating the Wrigley Memorial, but can be shortened.
The most common way to reach Catalina Island is by ferry from mainland Southern California ports like Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point.
Information on specific shuttles directly to the Hermit Gulch Trailhead from Avalon can vary. It's best to check with local Avalon transportation services or the Catalina Island Conservancy for the most up-to-date options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, hiking on public trails like Hermit Gulch does not require a specific permit for day use. However, if you plan to camp at Hermit Gulch Campground, reservations are necessary.
The trail is typically open year-round during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check with the Catalina Island Conservancy for any temporary closures or advisories.
There is no direct entrance fee for hiking the Hermit Gulch Trail itself. Fees are associated with ferry transportation to the island and camping at Hermit Gulch Campground.
Reservations for Hermit Gulch Campground can usually be made through the Catalina Island Conservancy's official website or their booking partners.
Discounts may be available for ferry tickets or camping depending on the season, group size, or specific promotions offered by the ferry companies or the Catalina Island Conservancy. It's worth checking their respective websites.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The trail is generally considered moderate in difficulty. It involves a climb, and continuing on loops like the Sky to Garden trail can be more strenuous.
A typical hike on Hermit Gulch Trail can take 2-4 hours, depending on your fitness level and whether you opt for a loop or out-and-back.
Restrooms are available at the Hermit Gulch Campground and at the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden if you take the loop trail.
The Hermit Gulch Trail is generally easy to follow. If you venture onto connecting trails or loops, ensure you have a map or navigation app.
You might encounter the island's famous bison herd, as well as various bird species and native flora.
📸 📸 Photography
The Hermit Gulch Lookout offers stunning panoramic views. The Lone Tree Trail also provides excellent photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Hiking up for sunset and capturing the island's golden hour glow is highly recommended.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Yes, from certain vantage points on the trail, you can capture picturesque views of Avalon Harbor and the boats.
The main lookout point is a must-visit. If you extend your hike, higher elevations on connecting trails offer even more expansive vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as shade is limited. The Wrigley Memorial provides a nice destination with restrooms and a chance to rest. Consider starting early to avoid the strongest sun and make the hike more comfortable for younger hikers. 🎒 Backpackers & Thru-Hikers
+1 Backpackers can easily access the campground from Avalon and use it as a base for their multi-day trek. Proper planning for water, food, and gear is essential for a successful TCT experience starting or ending at Hermit Gulch. 📸 Photographers
Don't forget a wide-angle lens for those expansive vistas and a sturdy tripod if you plan on capturing long exposures during sunset. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Trans-Catalina Trail Connection
+1 Many hikers use Hermit Gulch Campground as their first night's stop before continuing their journey towards Blackjack Campground or other points along the TCT. For those embarking on the TCT, Hermit Gulch offers a convenient access point from Avalon. The trail from Avalon to Hermit Gulch Campground is relatively short, allowing hikers to set up camp and prepare for the longer stretches ahead.
The campground itself provides basic amenities, making it a functional basecamp for TCT adventurers. Navigating the Loops and Extensions
Another notable extension is the Lone Tree Trail, which branches off from Hermit Gulch.
This path is described as more strenuous but highly recommended for its breathtaking views. Hikers should be prepared for a significant climb and ensure they have adequate water and trekking poles if needed. These extensions transform a moderate hike into a more comprehensive exploration of Catalina Island's natural beauty, offering different perspectives and challenges for every hiker. Wildlife Encounters on the Trail
+1 While sightings are not guaranteed, hikers often report seeing these majestic animals grazing in the hillsides near the trail. It's important to maintain a safe distance and never feed the bison. Beyond the bison, the island supports a variety of birdlife, including endemic species. Keep an eye out for raptors soaring overhead or smaller birds flitting through the coastal sage scrub.
The trail also showcases the island's unique plant life, with various wildflowers blooming throughout the year, especially after rainfall. Experiencing these natural elements adds another layer of richness to the Hermit Gulch Trail hike, making it more than just a physical challenge but an immersion in a distinct island environment. 
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