Two Harbors Catalina

The Catalina Islands just off the coast of California near Los Angeles might be one of the most relaxing tourist destinations in this area. Though their local economy is built around tourism (population less than 300), there just isn't much to do there other than enjoy the nature - be it through boating or hiking. We took this hike at Two Harbors Labor Day weekend on Aug. 30, 2008.

• Trail: Two Harbors
  
• Location: Two Harbors on Catalina Island
  
• Length: varies
  
• Hike time: varies
  
• Terrain: peak with plenty of plateaus
  
• Path visibility: clearly marked dirt path
  
• Difficulty: moderate, increasing difficulty as you go up the coastal peak
  
• Cost: free, but hiking pass required
  
• Highlight destination: overlooking the two harbors for which the area gets its name
  
• Beware: buffalo said to be on the peak, but we didn't see any; bring lots of water
  

The only way to get to the Catalina Islands is by boat, be it your own or ferry from the mainland (okay, so there is a small airport but I can't be bothered with facts). This restricted access makes Catalina a great getaway destination. Even though it is 100% tourist, it's very laid back with actually very little to do other than enjoy nature.

While at Two Harbors, we knew we had to hike. Apparently buffalo roam the coastal peak we hiked, but we weren't lucky enough to see any. We're holding out for the next time.

This hike was much like our San Diego-based climbs on familiar terrain of steep inclines on a dirt path, but with the most extraordinary views of the two harbors (Isthmus Cove and Catalina Harbor). After walking along a long flat, wide dirt path for a bit, we started heading upward toward the peak. There was a nice area at the bend just overlooking Isthmus Cove with a bench to rest or just enjoy the view of the harbor below.

Moving from this resting spot, the hike seemed to really begin as we took on the peak. The incline increased rather steadily and gave us a bit of a workout.

The entire hike was really like a living postcard. What else is there to say? Can't wait to go back.

We found this video online of brothers who did a variation of the hike we did - and they saw a buffalo!



Tipped off: Catalina guides online mention hiking, but there aren't a lot of details out there.