If you are visiting Catalina Island for a day or longer, one activity you cannot miss is the Garden To Sky trail. There are several hikes and trails to choose from, but the Garden to Sky is the best day hike! To learn how to enjoy this beautiful slice of nature, read on for my tips and pics that will inspire you to insert this in your itinerary when visiting Catalina Island.
First, a little bit about where Catalina Island is!
Location:
Catalina Island also known as Santa Catalina Island is the southernmost island of California’s Channel Islands. It is about 22 miles away from Long Beach, California. The island is comprised of two towns, Avalon (the main town) on the east end, and Two Harbors (very little is offered here and mostly for campers) on the west end. This magical island is only 22 miles in length and 8 miles across. Outside of the two towns, there is an abundance of nature that has been preserved for all of us to enjoy!
For a larger view of the map – click on the map image
How to Get There:
There are several ways to travel to the island. Here are a few options to choose from!
Cruise
Several cruise ships have this as a port of call on their way to Mexico. These include Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruise Lines, Princess Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Crystal, and of course my favorite Norwegian Cruise Lines.
Ferry
My hubby and I choose to take a passenger ferry – Catalina Express from Long Beach. Catalina Island is just a little over an hour ride. You can also find ferries from Newport Beach, Dana Point, or San Pedro. Be on the lookout for whales and dolphins on your ride over there!
5StarTip🌟: If you tend to get motion sickness, be sure and take something before you board. There are times that the weather and swells can be somewhat rocky and you don’t want to start or end your trip feeling sick!
5StarTip🌟: Book the commodore lounge upgrade! This is worth the extra $15. You have priority boarding and a comfortable lounge to relax in and enjoy the views. You also have a free drink coupon – Champagne…please!
Helicopter:
You can also charter a helicopter or private plane. Catalina Island’s Airport in the Sky sits on a mountaintop, 1,602 feet above sea level.
Private Boat or Yacht:
Sail over on a private boat (time to find some friends that have a yacht…lol) or there are companies that you can hire this service as well.
Where is the Trailhead:
The trailhead is located at the base of the Wrigley Memorial past the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden. The Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden is a thirty-minute walk. Take Avalon Canyon from the town center, add 10 to 15 minutes if you are walking from the ferry port.
The hubby and I rented a golf cart which I highly recommend. You can park the cart outside the gardens plus use it to tour the island before or after your hike.
You can also take the public Garibaldi City Bus.
Garden to Sky Trail
If you are not a member of the Conservancy there is a fee to enter the gardens and to access the trail.
HOURS:
Everyday, 8 am to 5 pm.Booth is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
ADMISSION:
Adults – $8Seniors Over 60 – $6
Veterans (With Id) – $6
Children (Ages 5 – 12) – $4
Students (With Student Id) – $4
Children Under 5 – Free
Active Military and Military Family With Id) – Free
The Garden to Sky trailhead begins at the base of the Wrigley Memorial, named for William Wrigley Jr. You might know him as the one who founded the Wrigley chewing gum company. Mr. Wrigley Jr. was key to the development of Avalon and the rest of the Island.
The hike is a 2.8-mile moderate level trail. The trail is well marked and the path is maintained well. I wore tennis shoes and did not need my hiking sticks or my hiking boots. The trail is all uphill until you reach the summit. However, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and the knowledge that it is all downhill on the way back!
I strongly suggest doing this hike when the weather is cooler. Parts of the trail are in direct sun and it can be quite hot. We took the trail early in the morning and it was perfect! During the winter months, dress in layers so you can keep warm and yet shed some layers as you get hot.
5StarTip🌟: Be sure to bring water, snacks, and apply sunscreen, and bug spray.
Final Thoughts:
This is a wonderful hike and a perfect way to appreciate the island’s efforts at conversancy. Though Catalina Island is best known for its crystal clear waters and all things water sports…hiking is not to be overlooked or missed. When planning a trip to Catalina Island be sure and add this to your itinerary. The best part is that you end your hike, go into town, and reward yourself by having a glass of wine and a seafood dish at BlueWater Grill (gorgeous ocean views) and tell them that Always5Star sent you! Cheers my friends!
About Pamela Rossi
I am passionate about travel and taking each moment and making it a five star experience. My goal is to create those experiences for YOU!
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