Updated September 6, 2024
The Avalon 50 Mile/50K Run, held on the stunning Catalina Island in Avalon, California, is a premier ultramarathon event that has captured the hearts of trail runners for over four decades. Organized by Run Catalina and Spectrum Sports Management, in partnership with the Avalon Lions Club, the event raises funds to support community initiatives while offering participants the rare opportunity to explore one of California's most beautiful and remote island landscapes. Strambecco rates the Avalon 50 as one of the Best Trail Running Race Events in the Southwest and one of the Best Trail Running Race Events in California.
This trail run is California’s oldest ultramarathon, with the 50 Mile event entering its 43rd year and the 50K added more recently. Participants experience the natural splendor of Catalina Island, from its serene Pacific Ocean vistas to its rugged interior, all while being cheered on by enthusiastic volunteers and well-stocked aid stations. The race offers a truly unique running adventure, with the island’s famous wildlife, including bison, making the journey even more memorable.
Event Course & Info
The Avalon Benefit 50 Mile and 50K both start and finish at Crescent and Sumner Street in the heart of Avalon, providing a festive and scenic beginning to the race. The 50 Mile event begins at 5:00 A.M., while the 50K kicks off at 6:00 A.M. Runners in both distances traverse some of Catalina Island’s most challenging and rewarding fire roads, offering dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean, secluded coves, and the island’s mountainous interior.
For those taking on the 50 Mile course, the race is an out-and-back along scenic fire roads that wind through the island's otherwise restricted interior. Starting in Avalon, runners head out toward the Isthmus at Two Harbors, covering the entire length of the island before returning. This route not only delivers a total of 8,000 feet of elevation gain, but also allows runners to experience areas typically closed to the public. Aid stations are strategically placed along the course to provide hydration, nutrition, and medical support. Additionally, the Two Harbors turnaround point features timing mats to ensure accurate tracking for participants.
The 50K course follows much of the same terrain as the 50 Mile race but turns back after reaching the Little Harbor Overlook. With its breathtaking views, rolling hills, and a solid 4,000 feet of elevation gain, the 50K is no less spectacular. Both races offer a challenging but rewarding experience, with water stations ready to fuel runners as they make their way back to Avalon.
For the 50 Mile race, the completion cutoff is 14 hours, and for the 50K, runners must finish within 9 hours. This ensures that participants maintain a steady pace while tackling the island’s rugged terrain. The event also offers awards to the top three male and female finishers, as well as age group awards across various categories, ranging from 29 and under to 80+. All finishers receive a long-sleeved T-shirt and finisher medal to commemorate their achievement.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Given Catalina Island's location, you'll need to plan early for the Avalon 50 . One option is to travel to Avalon on Friday night via the Catalina Express, stay in Avalon Friday night, and take the race morning boat from Avalon to Two Harbors. Another option is to travel to Two Harbors on Friday night via Catalina Express and stay the night in Two Harbors. You can pick up your bib Friday night or Saturday morning and be ready to go at the start line. You can catch the Catalina Express from either Long Beach, Dana Point, or San Pedro. Finally, short a private boat, helicopter options (Island Express Helicopters) fly from the Queen Mary heliport or Orange County.
However, it's recommended that runners stay in Avalon on Friday night and take the 5:00 am boat to Two Harbors, as there are limited lodging options in Two Harbors. Hermosa Hotel and the Catalina Canyon Inn are two hotel options, while complete event/travel packages are available from Absolutely Amazing Travel. There are also some vacation rentals in the area to suit a variety of needs from homes to ocean view villas. You could also consider camping on the island at one of the hike-to locations.
The culinary scene on Catalina Island, CA, offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual eateries serving fresh seafood and classic American fare to upscale restaurants providing gourmet cuisine with scenic views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of flavors, including Mexican, Mediterranean, and contemporary Californian dishes, often prepared with locally sourced ingredients and accompanied by an impressive selection of wines and craft beers. Check out Eater's list of must-visit restaurants on Catalina Island.
Beyond the Avalon 50, the area offers miles of unspoiled beaches, secluded coves, and an abundance of trails, all protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy. For the cyclist enthusiasts, Catalina Island offers rugged and challenging mountain bike trails. The island’s terrain is varied, providing exciting downhill sections, technical climbs, and breathtaking views from the island’s peaks. Hiking on Catalina Island is a must for any outdoor athlete. The island’s interior offers a network of trails that cater to all levels of runners, but it's particularly appealing for those seeking a challenge. The Trans-Catalina Trail stretches for over 38 miles, presenting varied terrain, challenging climbs, and rewarding views. For those who prefer water over land, kayaking along Catalina Island’s coast is an exhilarating experience. Paddle through crystal clear waters, explore hidden coves, and marvel at the rich marine life including dolphins, seals, and various fish species.
Sign up for the Triple Crown Challenge and complete all three Run Catalina events—the Avalon 50, the Catalina Island Marathon, and the Catalina Island Half Marathon—within a 12-month period. By registering for all three races, you’ll receive a discount and exclusive finisher swag, including a jacket, Hi-Tec shoes, and a unique belt buckle.
Related Events
Organizers of the Avalon 50, Run Catalina and Spectrum Sports Management also produce the infamous Catalina Island Marathon in March. For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in the state of California, NorCal, and the broader Northwest region, be sure to check out our full list of Strambecco Best in Class rated races and events:
