5 Nature & Parks in Avalon That You Shouldn't Miss

Exhibits and films about Catalina Island’s wildlife, visit with a Naturalist, and get a hiking permit.

The Trailhead is the perfect place to begin your Catalina adventure! It is the flagship facility for Catalina Island Conservancy, serving as the gateway to the Island's wildlands. Resources found at the Trailhead help you make the most of your time exploring the Island's 42,000+ acres of open space. Visitors to Catalina Island maximize their experience with a stop at the three-story, 9,000-sq.-ft. Trailhead. While there, obtain hiking and biking permits, detailed information on campgrounds, native flora and fauna, ecology and history. It's also a great place to fuel up before your Catalina adventures, with breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily at Toyon Grill. The Trailhead is a destination, complete with interpretive exhibits and an expansion of the Conservancy's popular lecture series. With a rooftop garden that offers stunning views and an extensive collection of retail items, you won't want to miss the Trailhead.

The Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden is located at the top of Avalon Canyon - just a short 30 minute stroll up from town! The Garden features a collection of native plants from both Catalina Island, and the surrounding Channel Islands. The Garden also features a collection of succulents from around the world. The park is also home to the Wrigley Memorial. This iconic island landmark was built in 1934 in honor of Catalina Island patron William Wrigley Jr. The unique structure incorporates a variety of native rock and stone, as well as the famed "Catalina tile."