Catalina Island Conservancy

The Catalina Island Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting both the natural beauty and ecological health of Catalina Island. Notably, it stands as one of California's oldest and largest private land trusts. The Catalina Island Conservancy manages over 47,000 acres of land, which makes up roughly 88% of the island. This includes diverse habitats such as forests, grasslands, canyons, and coastlines. The Conservancy diligently monitors key species like the Catalina Island fox, bald eagles, and bison to ensure their health and well-being.

Visitor Programs and Activities

The Conservancy offers a variety of programs for visitors, including guided hikes, workshops, and lectures on the island's natural history and ongoing conservation efforts. If you plan to hike on Conservancy land and aren't camping overnight, you must obtain a free day-use permit. Catalina boasts 165 miles of recreational trails and roads, featuring 17 trailheads. Hikes vary from easy to difficult, with popular trails including the Parsons Landing Trail, Starlight Trail, and Silver Peak Loop.

Catalina Eco Tour

One of the Conservancy's most acclaimed activities is the Catalina Eco Tour, an immersive experience led by naturalists that takes you deep into the island's wildlands. These tours utilize vehicles specially designed for rugged terrain, allowing you to explore remote areas of Catalina. You'll have the opportunity to see bison, foxes, and a variety of bird species. Past participants have described it as a wonderful adventure. However, it's worth noting that the unpaved roads and trails can be bumpy and jarring, so those prone to motion sickness or with neck or back issues may want to reconsider.

Tour Details

Tours are available daily, with pricing starting at approximately $120 per person for a two-hour tour and around $170 per person for a three-hour tour. Additionally, private and custom tours are offered. For more detailed information, visit the Eco Tour information page on the Catalina Island Conservancy's website.

The Trailhead

Regardless of how you choose to experience the Conservancy's lands, your journey should begin at The Trailhead, the organization's official visitor center. Here, you can obtain hiking permits and tour tickets, enjoy a meal, and take in the view from the building's observation deck. The Trailhead is located on the east side of Avalon, less than half a mile southwest of the ferry dock.