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Airport Loop Trail


Airport Loop Trail

A nice easy loop trail for people who visit the airport, with great views of Black Jack Mountain and Cottonwood Canyon
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Rating: 5 out of 5 by EveryTrail members
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.2 miles
Duration: 1-3 hours
Family Friendly

Overview :  As its name implies, this hike loops around the perimeter of the airport. This is a nice easy trail for people who visit the airport us... more »

Tips:  Obtain your Hiking Permit online. Also, be sure to review ... more »before heading out on your adventure. less «

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Points of Interest

1. Trailhead

First, catch a ride on the Catalina Island Conservancy's Wildlands Express from Avalon by calling (310) 510-0143 for reservations. Or, plan a side hike on your Trans Catalina trek.

Either way, start the hike here and continue the loop in either direction. If you go West, you will first come to the Soapstone Quarry. The trail sticks fa... More

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2. Soapstone Quarry

The soapstone quarry is easily accessible by entering the airport loop trail from the main road and taking a left, with the airport behind you. Experiencing the quarry is literally like taking a step back in time. You'll see soapstone bowls still attached to the rock matrix, with the quarry left exactly as it was when the last Tongva people walked ... More

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3. View of Cottonwood Canyon

On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean from this point. You might also see American Kestrels soaring above Cottonwood Canyon in this open area. These small falcons love to perch on wires, or hover over the open ground in search of insects and small rodents. The male of this species is very charismatic, with plumage that runs ... More

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4. Catalina Wildlife

Catalina California ground squirrels are abundant. They may look like just another squirrel but don't be fooled. These are true island endemics. In fact, Catalina is the only Channel Island that has ground squirrels. These animals are examples of Island Gigantism and are measurably larger than their mainland counterparts.

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5. View of Black Jack Mountain

Directly across Cotton Canyon you'll be able to see Black Jack Mountain. This is not the tallest mountain on the Island. In fact, it obscures your view of Mount Orizaba the tallest mountain on the Island at 2,103 feet.

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6. Airport in the Sky DC-3 Gifts & Grill

The DC-3 Gifts & Grill restaurant is famed for its buffalo burgers and monster cookies. You can also get regular beef, chicken and vegetarian burgers, other sandwiches and Mexican specialties (including buffalo tacos). During the summer, don't miss out on the Grill's barbecues featuring live music from Island band Hot Off the Range. Call (310) 510-... More

Airport Loop Trail