Trans-catalina
a backpacking adventure in paradise
April 16-19 (Thurs-Sun)
A THREE NIGHT BACKCOUNRY THROUGH-HIKE OF CATALINA ISLAND
WITH THE ONWARD CREW
ADVENTURE OVERVIEW
A rugged, unforgettable traverse of Santa Catalina Island that blends ocean-view ridgelines, island ecology, and a deep sense of remoteness—less than two hours from the mainland.
This 3-night / 4-day expedition is designed as a high-impact outdoor experience that balances challenge and accessibility, pairing a classic Trans-Catalina Trail backpacking route with a uniquely supportive mid-trip basecamp at the Onward Oceans Center in Cat Harbor.
The program includes immersive learning opportunities related to:
island ecology and endemic species
coastal and island conservation efforts
expedition skills and leadership development
Leave No Trace and stewardship practices
community-building in a wilderness setting
The Trans-Catalina Trail spans approximately 38.5 miles and is widely considered one of the classic California backpacking trips and a “mini thru-hike” with significant elevation gain and dramatic terrain.
Hey … you getting Onward’s Dispatch?
It’s free, it’s how you tune in to Onward, and it’s really really good.
Pricing & perks
Onward Oceans (above) is our off-grid retreat center and a comfortable basecamp for nights #2 & 3 of the trek.
Trip Pricing
Price is $285/pp + $94 ferry ticket
20% discount for plus-ones (multiple okay).
This is an epic deal! You get guides, campsites, logistics, nourishing and delicious meals on nights #2 and 3 of the trek, preparation and packing communication, and community. We’ve kept prices low to ensure accessibility.
What you get:
Ferry travel to/from Catalina
We have reserved ferry seats ahead of time, you do NOT need to book separately … Yay!
Campsite for all three nights of the trek
Night 1: Blackjack Campground
Nights 2 & 3: Onward Oceans Center basecamp (take a dip in the ocean, borrow a kayak, lounge and journal, and snuggle by the fire!)
Scrumptious and hot camp dinners nights #2 & 3
Route planning and Onward’s trip leads / on-trail guides (certified Wilderness First Responder on trip)
Provisioning & packing guidance and recommendations
Optional training hikes leading up to trip
Participants will:
Develop or improve core backpacking competency (packing, hydration planning, pacing, layering systems)
Practice navigation fundamentals (terrain reading, route planning, hazard awareness)
Learn expedition leadership skills (rotation of roles, shared decision-making, group pacing)
Engage in place-based natural history learning (flora/fauna, geology, coastal systems)
Participate in structured reflection (journaling prompts, “trail talks,” group debriefs)
Practice Leave No Trace ethics through daily stewardship habits
What you provide:
Your own backpacking gear, tent, & clothing
Backpacking food (except for provided dinners nights #2 & 3)
An attitude of openness and humility, good communication with trip leaders, and a commitment to being prepared physically and mentally
Getting there/back:
Catalina Express ferry (Included in your ticket price):
Thursday APRIL 16: Long Beach >>> Avalon @ 6AM
Sunday APRIL 19: Two Harbors >>> San Pedro @ 11:45 (arrival 1pm)
Note: we're coming back to a different ferry terminal than we departed from. That's awkward but can't be avoided due to the logistics of our trip (trust me, we've tried!). Once we have our roster we'll try to work out a shuttle system to get folks back to their cars, otherwise be prepared for a short rideshare.
Trip Itinerary:
Day 1 (Thursday) — Avalon to Blackjack Campground
Participants take the AM ferry to Avalon (included in trip cost)
Gear check, route briefing, water strategy, and Leave No Trace alignment
Begin hiking from Avalon into the island’s interior
Overnight: Blackjack Campground
Highlights: rapid transition from town-to-wilderness; ridge hiking; big island views. Avalon to Blackjack is ~10–11+ miles depending on route variations.
Day 2 (Friday) — Trek to Cat Harbor + Basecamp at Onward Oceans
Morning departure from Blackjack
Scenic traverse toward the island’s more remote western zones
Arrive at Cat Harbor
Establish camp at the Onward Oceans Center
Group dinner and evening program
Overnight: Onward Oceans Center (Cat Harbor)
This section often aligns with the Blackjack → Little Harbor corridor mileage range (12-13 miles depending on exact route), and sets us up for a meaningful transition from thru-hike rhythm into basecamp-style community.
Day 3 (Saturday) — West End Day Hike + Celebration Dinner
Lightweight day hike (no full packs)
West End exploration with destination focus: Parsons Landing
Field learning modules and interpretation on:
coastal systems and island conservation
human history and land management
expedition leadership and group problem-solving
Return to Onward Oceans Center
Celebratory meal + final evening circle
Overnight: Onward Oceans Center (Cat Harbor)
Parsons Landing is a recognized highlight of the West End—remote, dramatic, and iconic. Two Harbors → Parsons Landing round trip 13-15 miles, depending on route choices.
Day 4 (Sunday) — Morning Pack-Up & Departure from Two Harbors
Morning camp breakdown
Final debrief: lessons learned, leadership reflections, personal “trail takeaway”
Walk to Two Harbors
Ferry departure from Two Harbors (included in trip cost)
Itinerary
Onward Industries is a community-led, volunteer-run 501(c)3 dedicated to connecting people outdoors. We believe community and a connection to the planet are vitally important and often missing from modern life. Our mission is to provide containers for connection outdoors.
Onward Oceans is our rustic off-grid adventure center. It’s a transformative space to unplug, relax, get funky, and tune in to the gorgeous natural surroundings of one of the most pristine marine environments on the California Coast.
The Oceans Center provides a full kitchen, composting toilets, a freshwater rinse, and access to miles and miles of trails, abundant kayaking & paddleboarding + endless opportunities for quiet, meditation, and reflection by the lapping water.
Want to book Onward Oceans in Cat harbor for a private group stay or event? More info
Please read our comprehensive expectations & guidelines for more details and what to expect on a typical Onward Industries trip.
Ready to do something story worthy?
Trouble with the booking plug-in? The button below will take you directly to the booking page.