Catalina Marathon Reviews

  Beautiful grueling race

By Andy about 2023

Review

This race is nearly all on dirt roads and famously has tremendous up and down hills, total ascent 4300 feet. You are nearly always in view of the ocean all around. Mostly arid country, little shade but beautiful. We saw one group of bison who were completely indifferent to the runners.

Race Tips

Practice downhill running without braking each step--smooth running will gain many minutes and lessen soreness. Take it out slow. Enjoy the view!

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

You can take a ferry across from Long Beach the morning of the race with an extremely early start. Most stay in Avalon and take the ferry to 2 Harbors. Even then it's an hour or so on the ferry. I brought a sleeping bag and was glad I had it. Gear check is great. Stay as long as you can in Avalon, a cute small (expensive) touristy California town.