Catalina Island Conservancy

A great race for trail runners or those looking for a new challenge, the Catalina Island Marathon features gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged terrain and lots of elevation change, which means it isn’t a race is for the PR-seekerThe remote (and beautiful) location of this marathon is part of its appeal. Off the coast of Long Beach, the course on Catalina Island includes 22 miles of difficult trails, dirt roads in three different eco-systems, and one killer hill at mile 19 — the “Catalina Crush” for the few hundred participants. While you can’t expect to see many spectators, the race does remind you to keep an eye out for buffalo, seals and bald eagles that inhabit the course.Runners can find events on Catalina Island that suit their every need! For the off-road and trail lovers, the Catalina Island Conservancy Marathon and the Catalina Island Eco-Marathon offer spectacular views and beautiful scenery amidst challenging terrain. This event will feature the exciting and historic marathon course used largely since the first year on the Catalina Island Conservancy’s lands. This includes much of the rugged terrain, spectacular vistas and special challenges enjoyed by Hans Albrecht and friends in the earliest days of the event under his management and enhanced over the years.