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 The
town of Avalon offers some fine level riding, especially along the
shore east to Pebbly Beach or west to Descanso Beach. Most of Avalon's
charming older cottages are on "the flats",in the canyon
bottom, and can be toured comfortably. Avalon's hillside roads are
quite steep, however, and a many-geared bike is recommended. The
ride is worth it, as the views are impressive.
To
get into the Island's interior you need a Conservancy permit, a
mountain bike, and strong legs. It's a 1500 foot, two mile climb
to the summit above Avalon! The unspoiled hills are worth it though,
and you can make a day trip to the beaches on Catalina's windward
side (see Map of Catalina).
Rentals
of single, multi-speed and tandem bikes at hourly, daily and weekly
rates are available in Avalon. Parts, repair and sales are also
provided. Only the 21-speed rentals can be taken beyond Avalon,
into the Island's interior. This requires a permit form the Conservancy
(see below).
Bike
Permits
To ride beyond Avalon, into the Island's interior, you need to purchase
a permit from the Catalina Island Conservancy.
These permits can be obtained at
Conservancy
House in Avalon - 125 Claressa, 310-510-2595. Open 9-5
daily, closed for lunch on Saturday and Sunday.
Catalina
Airport - 310-510-0143
Two
Harbors Visitor Services - 800-626-1496.
Permits
cost $50 for individuals and $75 for families (including spouse
and minor children), and are valid from May 1st through April 30th.
Only annual permits are sold, no day passes are available. Accident,
liability and life insurance are included with the permit. Only
mountain bikes are allowed, and riders must wear helmets. Riding
is limited to the primary road from Avalon to Emerald Bay. Riding
on secondary roads, service roads and hiking trails are prohibited.
Cross-channel
carriers will transport bikes for a fee. Catalina
Express charge $6 each way, Catalina
Passenger Service charges $7.
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