On Day 5, we had 4.5 miles to go to complete the official Trans Catalina Trail which ends at Starlight Beach. We were doing a round trip from Parson's Landing so total for the day was 9 miles (supposedly).
My intention for the day was to walk as slow as possible. And I did. We had a steep climb out of Parson's Landing but once we got to the top, the terrain evened out with little bumps and rolls. The landscape was lush and green and flowers were blooming everywhere. The trail (dirt jeep road) ran along the ridgeline of the coast the entire way so we had spectacular views of the little coves and harbors that dotted the way. I savored every moment and thoroughly enjoyed myself.
The climb down to Starlight Beach was very steep and then a rock scramble down to the beach itself. We got down to the beach in time sit a bit and eat lunch before the tide started coming in. Trail completed! Another awesome thru hike in the books! Hugs and high fives all round!
The tide started coming in so we scrambled back up and started the long ascent back up to the ridgeline. We were keeping a nice slow easy pace and all of a sudden Jacki calls out "Rattlesnake!" She was up on it and it rattled it's tail which I guess is unusual for a Catalina rattler. Apparently they strike without rattling a warning first! We all held off a few minutes while the snake slithered off into the grass and then we gingerly carried on.
We took a little side trail called Old West Rd (if I remember correctly), which wasn't on any maps and we only knew about it through other hiker's word of mouth. It was very scenic and worth it. Plus I think it may have shaved some time/mileage off our walk ;-)
We made it back to Parson's Landing by 3pm and were able to enjoy the beach some more and relax. What a great day!
Day 6..........The Walk Out.......
Photos can be found on my Instagram @tinahikes
Author of Lola Hikes the Icy Mountain
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