username
X
password
register
for free!
help
ArticlesGuidesRoutes
 
Photosets
 
 Comments
triplogs   photosets   labels comments more
Hermit Gulch Trail - Catalina Island - 1 member in 1 triplog has rated this an average 3 ( 1 to 5 best )
1 triplog
login for filter options
Mar 31 2026
avatar

 Guides 42
 Routes 1,790
 Photos 15,471
 Triplogs 2,915

70 male
 Joined Jan 20 2009
 Far NE Phoenix,
Garden to Sky Loop - Catalina IslandCali Islands, CA
Cali Islands, CA
Hiking avatar Mar 31 2026
The_EagleTriplogs 2,915
Hiking4.41 Miles 1,647 AEG
Hiking4.41 Miles   2 Hrs   31 Mns   2.05 mph
1,647 ft AEG      22 Mns Break10 LBS Pack
 
1st trip
Linked   linked  
Partners partners
Ladyeagle
Route Scout Route recorded on Route Scout | Pop | Map | Popup | MapDEX
This was our first trip to Catalina Island. We had the day on the island and first opted for a driving tour of the booming metropolis of Avalon.

Next, we stopped at the Catalina Island Conservancy for our free/required hiking permit. This can also be done online at https://catalinaconservancy.org/resources/permits/. The girl at the desk said that this way the rangers knew where we were. (We saw no rangers.) The same lady who issued our permit was working the entrance to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens at the end of our hike.

Next, we got into the "Ride Circuit" to request our $2/pp ride to the TH at the north end of Hermit Gulch Campground.

Recent trail maintenance had the trail in great shape all the way to the top. Once at the Hermit Gulch Lookout, you get great views of both Avalon and the other side of the island. Our cruise ship looked like a small spec from up there.

Instead of the out-and-back, we opted for the slightly longer and more knee-friendly loop option. This utilizes Divide Road to the Avalon Cyn./Memorial Roads. This takes you through the Wrigley Memorial, which is worth the stop. The Botanical Gardens are also here, but we did not spend the time to peruse them.

We connected to WiFi at the entrance and requested our ride back. Nothing overly exciting on this hike, but a good option if you have minimal time on the island.
_____________________
There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness."
Dave Barry 🦅
 
230404
average hiking speed 2.05 mph

WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.

helpcommentissue

end of page marker