Horseback Riding on Catalina Island: Rugged Hills Above Avalon

Two hours on horseback through canyon trails and coastal ridges above Avalon

A two-hour guided horseback ride on Catalina Island takes you through rugged hills above Avalon with an experienced equestrian guide, revealing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Avalon Harbor. The pace is relaxed and tailored to your comfort level. This is a group ride, and the experience suits couples and small groups looking for an intimate way to explore the island's landscape and history.

Step-by-step itinerary

Horseback ride on Catalina Island

• Meet experienced equestrian guide
• Ride through rugged hills above Avalon
• Enjoy panoramic views of Pacific Ocean
• Discover island’s history and wildlife
• Complete two-hour group horseback ride

The experience

You'll ride through the hills that rise above Avalon, following trails that open onto views of the Pacific and the harbor below. The guide sets a pace that works for your comfort. This is not a race through terrain, but a way to move through the landscape at a speed that lets you take it in. Two hours in the saddle covers ground without wearing you down, and the ride is built around what the island's geography actually offers: the rugged terrain, the vistas, and the sense of moving through a place most visitors see only from the water or the town below.

An experienced equestrian leads the group, and the ride includes the island's history woven into the route: the stories of the land and the animals that live there. You'll see wildlife as you go, and the whole experience is designed for small groups, so it stays intimate even though you're riding with others. The guide speaks English and knows the trails well enough to adjust the route if conditions or the group's mood calls for it.

What’s included

• Two-hour guided horseback ride with an experienced equestrian guide speaking English.
• group ride through the rugged hills and canyons above Avalon with panoramic Pacific Ocean and harbor views included.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 12:00 and 12:30Last departure this season: 31 Dec

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (9 and older) · Under 9: can't be booked

GroupUp to 18 · max 6 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Catalina Island Horseback Adventures

Is this one for you?Two hours leaves your morning or afternoon open for Avalon's shops, restaurants and waterfront, so the ride fits neatly into a day trip or a longer island visit without consuming the whole day.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How fit do I need to be to ride for two hours on Catalina Island?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. The pace is relaxed and tailored to your comfort, but two hours in the saddle requires that you can sit a horse and hold a position for that length of time without strain.

What's the landscape like on the trails above Avalon?

The trails wind through rugged hills with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Avalon Harbor. You'll ride through terrain that shows the island's natural landscape and its history, with wildlife visible along the route.

Is this ride suitable for couples and small groups?

Yes, the ride is designed as a group experience perfect for couples and small groups. The intimate size means you're not in a large crowd, and the relaxed pace lets you enjoy the company and the scenery together.

What should I know before booking if I'm visiting Catalina Island for the first time?

Public transportation options are available near the ride location. The two-hour ride leaves plenty of time to explore Avalon before or after, so it fits easily into a day trip or a longer stay on the island.