Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K
When is Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K?
Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K takes place on Saturday, March 14, 2026 in Avalon, CA.
What distances does Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K offer?
Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K offers 5 events: Kids Run, Catalina Island 5K, Catalina Island 10K, Catalina Island TRIPLE CROWN Challenge, Catalina Island Marathon.
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kids Run | 1.0 km | $25.00 | Register |
| Catalina Island 5K | 3.1 mi | $65.00 | Register |
| Catalina Island 10K | 6.2 mi | $75.00 | Register |
| Catalina Island TRIPLE CROWN Challenge 30 spots left | 26.2 mi | $459.00 | Register |
| Catalina Island Marathon | 26.2 mi | $210.00 | Register |
How much does Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K cost?
Registration for Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K starts at $160.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K held?
Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K is held in Avalon, CA at Catalina Island.
About Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K
California's State Off-Road Marathon Championship is also the oldest trail marathon in the state and takes place on beautiful Catalina Island located off the coast of Los Angeles and surrounded by blue ocean, green hills and more beauty than you have ever run through. Experience the Catalina Island Conservancy the way it was intended to be experienced, on foot, running, and noticing the history and beauty of the island. This is a bucket list event that you will want to run year, after year, after year.
AID STATION INFORMATION
The following chart will provide information on the water stations/aid stations. Please pay careful attention to the stations, how far apart they are, and what they provide.
All stops will provide water and race nutrition will be provided by Gatorade.
Food Stops will provide a mixture of our traditional nutrition and energy products, including water, de-fizzed Coke, bananas, pretzels, energy gels, salt, and some Islander specials, etc.
** Reminder that ALL RunCatalina events are cupless and that you MUST provide your own hydration system, cups or bottles.
Awards and Rules
Awards
MARATHON- Awards go to the overall, top three male and female finishers, and the top three male and female finishers in each age division.
Awards will also be given to the top overall for the Islander division. You have to select during registration whether you want to be in the Islander Division or Age Group Division.
10K- Custom awards for the top 3 male and female finishers in each age group. Overall awards for the top three overall male and female finishers
5K- Custom awards for the top 3 male and female finishers in each age group. Overall awards for the top three overall male and female finishers
Rules of Results
Award winners will be presented in only one class - either overall or age group by division
Marathon winners will be presented ONLY for the 7:00 AM start. If you start at any other time, you will not be eligible for an award.
Official Results will be posted online and you will receive an email before the end of the day
Courses
COURSE RECORDS
Marathon
Male: Bill McDermott, 2:39:58 (1991)
Female: Heather Fuhr 3:07:00 (2010)
10k
Male: Peter Long 0:32:34 (2009)
Female: Sherri Ellerby 0:38:49 (2009)
5k
Male: Robert Grove 0:16:27 (2008)
Female: Jennifer Rubio 0:19:32 (2009)
Marathon Course Map:
View Interactive Course Map
Download Course Map
Marathon Elevation:
10K Course
View Interactive 10K Course Map
10k Elevation
5K Course
View Interactive 5K Course Map
5k Elevation
FAQ
Catalina Island Marathon FAQ
What events will the Catalina Island Marathon offer?
This event will have a Marathon, 10K, 5K and Kids Run.
What are the start times for each event?
Marathon Walkers– 6:30 AM in Two Harbors (Must check in with start line crew. IF you change to the 7 AM start, let timer know upon finishing)
Marathon – 7:00 AM in Two Harbors (8 hour cut off time. IF you start early, you must let timer know upon finishing)
Avalon 5K– 8:30 AM in Avalon
Avalon 10K– 8:15 AM in Avalon
Avalon Kids Run– 9:00 AM in Avalon
Is there an early start for the Marathon?
We offer an early start for the Marathon at 6:30 AM. This is for walkers and any other runners that don’t think they will make the 8 hour cut off. You must check in with the head timer and give them your bib number before you depart. Your results will be listed under "Marathon - Walker" regardless if you walk or run.
Forgot to add the "morning of boat ticket" from Avalon to Two Harbors?
If you need the morning of the race boat ride from Avalon to Two Harbors and need to add it to your registration please sign in to your Runsignup account. Please follow this link for directions on how to "manage your add-ons" in your Runsignup account and purchase the "morning of boat ticket." https://help.runsignup.com/support/solutions/articles/17000062916-add-on-management
How is the course marked?
The course is marked with arrows to guide you and cones to block roads/trails you should not head down. Look for flour on the ground to keep you in the right direction.
Are walkers allowed to participate and are there time limits?
Walkers are allowed to participate. There is an 8 hour cut off time for the Marathon. Any runner/walker that fails to maintain the minimum pace will be asked to get in the SAG wagon. The finish line will officially close at 3:00 PM.
May I use an iPod/iPhone or other device for music?
iPod/iPhone or other music devices are allowed, but we ask that you stay safe and aware by keeping volumes at a low level in case of emergency. Rule 144.3 of USA Track and Field enables race directors to choose to allow the use of headphones by runners in non-championship races.
What if I can’t pick up my bib? Can someone else pick up my bib for me?
Yes, someone can pick up your bib and registration materials if you cannot make it to packet pick up. You MUST provide BOTH:
A copy of your valid driver’s license or photo identification card (Smartphone picture will be accepted)
A signed and printed out Event Waiver
A signed Bib Authorization Form
WE WILL BE UNABLE TO RELEASE YOUR BIB TO ANOTHER PERSON WITHOUT THIS INFORMATION.
Click to print: EVENT WAVIER for Catalina Island Marathon.
Click to print: BIB AUTHORIZATION FORM. BIB Authorization form will not be available onsite.
Can I register on race weekend?
Absolutely! You can register at packet pick up in Avalon from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at 708 Crescent Ave, 2ND FLOOR OF THE CATALINA ISLAND CONSERVANCY’S TRAILHEAD VISITOR CENTRE, Avalon, CA 90704. You can register onsite at packet pick up in Two Harbors from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Harbor Reef Restaurant. You can also register race morning at the start line in Two Harbors (Marathon ONLY) or at Wrigley stage in Avalon (10K, 5K, & Kids Run).
Can I run in a different race than I registered for?
Yes! We realize that training can go much better than expected, or maybe not quite as well. You may switch from Marathon to 5K, or vice-versa, and back again, and again.....if you wish. $15 fee per switch plus the price difference if upgrading to a longer distance. No refund of price difference if downgrading to a shorter distance. You may switch on the Runsignup site using the ‘manage registration’ tab.
Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
No Transfers after 15 days before the event. $15 transfer fee plus any price difference if upgrading distances. No refund of the price difference if the transfer is to a shorter distance event, such as from Marathon to Half or 5k. Transfers can be done in your Runsignup account.
Are there refunds?
CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY: This is a live event. The Cancellation/Refund policy is non-negotiable. Our cancellation/refund policy is that your registration and any related fees are not refundable. Refunds will not be issued at any time after purchase for any reason. We understand that last-minute emergencies and unforeseen events happen, but the Cancellation/Refund policy will be applied without exception. No refunds will be issued even if the event is canceled or postponed due to an act of God or government mandates.
May I defer my registration?
We encourage you to defer your entry to next year if you can’t make it this year. There is a $15 deferral fee and you will be given a code to enter for next year. You may defer in your Runsignup account using the ‘Manage Registration’ tab. You will need your confirmation number. You must take care of deferring at least 10 days prior to the event and follow all instructions to ensure you complete the deferral process for next years event to be properly registered.
Where can I order merchandise?
You may order official merchandise from the event website's store. Official Run Catalina merchandise will also be available for purchase at packet pickup on the Friday before the race in Avalon from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
What if I can’t finish the race?
We will help you out! Throughout the day, there will be various event vehicles driving the course to assist runners. If you cannot finish the event, please notify a Conservancy Ranger, a Catalina Island Fire Fighter, or any of our aid station volunteers. Anyone who cannot finish or cannot keep the minimum pace will enjoy a free ride back to the post-race area.
Are there any age minimums?
Participants must be at least 16 years old to compete in the Catalina Island Marathon. Additionally, all those under the age of 18 must have a parental waiver signed.
Are baby joggers, strollers, rollerblades, dogs or bicycles allowed in any event?
No, they are not. The courses are unfriendly to baby joggers/strollers/rollerblades. Additionally, USATF does not allow dogs on the course. If you wish to cycle through any portion of the course, you will need to obtain a permit through the Catalina Island Conservancy.
May I exchange my event shirt for a different size at packet pickup?
Yes! If the shirt you receive doesn’t fit the way you like, you can exchange on the spot at packet pick up.
Will there be drop bags for runners?
There will be drop bags ONLY for Marathon runners. Bring your own drop bag (none will be provided) clearly labeled with your name/bib # to the start line in Two Harbors. There is no event day gear check available. If you need to store items while on course, please make alternate plans with your hotel, lockers at the pier, or family/friends who may be spectating.
How can I collect my drop bag?
Drop bags will be taken from the start line in Two Harbors to Wrigley stage in Avalon (near the finish line). We are not responsible for any lost or stolen items, you leave your drop bag at your own risk.
If you do not collect your drop bag, you will need to contact Spectrum Sports. You will be responsible for sending the price of postage first (usually around $10).
What is the course elevation and terrain like?
The Marathon has an elevation gain of 4,310’. The course primarily runs along dirt roads throughout the interior of Catalina. Please be prepared for a hilly and challenging course. The final miles back into town are down a paved road. The 5K &10K is exclusively on the streets of Avalon.
Is there an official race photographer?
The event is photographed by SCS Photoworks.
Will there be water and medical stations on the course?
Yes, each water station will contain water, Gnarly Nutrition products, and various nutritional snacks such as bananas, oranges, M&Ms, and pretzels. All stations will contain a first aid kit. A list of water station locations can be found on the Marathon Course Map. For your comfort, please plan ahead and bring what you have trained with. You must bring your own hydration system as the Catalina Island Marathon is completely cupless.
Will gels be offered on the course?
No, gels will not be offered on the course. In the past, gels have been left scattered around the course and the island. Over 85% of Catalina is a protected conservancy so if you run with your own gels or nutrition please be careful to pick up your trash. Please leave no waste on the trails.
Will there be Aspirin on the course?
No, there will not be pain reliever medications on the course. For medical liability reasons, we are not allowed to offer them.
What does it mean that Run Catalina races are cupless?
This means that we do not provide any cups at our aid stations. In 2015, we decided to lessen the impact our races place on the scarce resources of the island. For all distances of a half marathon or greater, our participants are required to carry their own cup/bottle throughout the race. This allows us to not waste over 20,000 cups a year on Catalina.
We sell reusable and collapsible Hydrapak cups. These have been a big hit with our participants! Others opt to carry their own bottles they used during training. We recognize that carrying your own cup/bottle may be a small inconvenience, but we firmly believe that this step is worth taking for the long-term health of Catalina Island.
How do I get to the island and is this included in my entry fee?
The most common transportation to Catalina Island is via the Catalina Express which serves Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. Travelling with the Catalina Express is not included with your registration fee. Please visit Run Catalina's Travel section to see the other options to travel to Catalina.
Are the streets in Avalon/Catalina closed to traffic?
No, it is not necessary to shut down the roads to the finish line. There are very few cars in Avalon and most vehicular traffic is from golf carts.
Will there be vehicles throughout the interior of the island?
There are very few cars on Catalina, and very few of these cars are allowed into the interior. There may be some traffic from the Catalina Island Conservancy Rangers, Eco Tours, and light traffic to and from the Airport and Two Harbors. Do not expect to see too many vehicles throughout the course.
Is there wildlife on the course?
The majority of the Catalina Island Marathon is run through the Interior of the island and it is highly likely that you will see much of the wildlife that lives there. Keep your eyes out for bald eagles, the Catalina Island Fox and of course the most recognized resident the American Bison. If there is a bison on the course, or near the course, DO NOT stop to take photos or pet them, these are wild animals and they will protect themselves.
Cancellation of the Race?
All runs will take place rain or shine, so long as the boats can deliver the runners the runs will happen. Race management and the Conservancy Rangers reserve the right to change the course due to inclement weather or Acts of God.
Packet Pick Up
Packet Pick-Up Information - AVALON LOCATION
Friday, March 6th - AVALON
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Catalina Charlie's - Located on Front Street, across from the fountain near Wrigley Stage, in the center of town
Friday, March 6th - TWO HARBORS
Harbor Reef Restaurant
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
MARATHON ONLY
***You must indicate on your registration whether you will be picking your packet up in Avalon or at Two Harbors.
Saturday, March 7th - AVALON
Marathon- 4:00 AM - Cruise Dock on the Mole (where you will catch the morning boat)--Only for those coming into Avalon on the 7:00 PM boat from Long Beach.
5K, 10K & Kids Run: 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM at Wrigley Stage (located at the bottom of Sumner Ave. next to the Green Pier)
Saturday, March 7th - TWO HARBORS
5:30 AM - MARATHON ONLY
What if I can’t pick up my bib? Can someone else pick-up my bib for me?
Yes, someone can pick up your bib and registration materials if you cannot attend packet pick-up. You MUST provide BOTH:
-
A copy of your valid driver’s license or photo identification card (A smartphone picture will be accepted)
-
A signed and printed-out Event Waiver
-
A signed BIB Authorization Form
WE WILL BE UNABLE TO RELEASE YOUR BIB TO ANOTHER PERSON WITHOUT THIS INFORMATION.
Click here to print Event Waiver for Catalina Island Marathon.
Click here to print BIB Authorization form. BIB Authorization form will not be available onsite.
Photos
Press
Race Information
Referrals
Catalina Island Marathon Referral Program
Refer friends to earn up to $75 cash back and more!
When you sign up for the Catalina Island Marathon or 10k, you’re eligible to earn cash rewards and prizes when you refer friends sign up for the 2025 Catalina Island Marathon or 10k. (Does not include the 5k or kids run)
How it Works
- Right after you signup for the marathon or 10k, we will generate you a unique referral link via your confirmation email. Email your link and share it on social media with your crew.
- If you refer three (3) people to register for the Catalina Island Marathon or 10k with your referral link, you will receive a $25 refund.
- If you refer five (5) people to register the Catalina Island Marathon, you will receive a $50 refund. (*10k registrants whose entry fee is less than $75 are only eligible for a refund of the entry fee they paid)
We look forward to rewarding your efforts to help bring more runners out to the beautiful Island of Catalina!
Cant find your referral link?
Your unique URL can be found in:
- Your registration confirmation email (register today!)
- Your RunSignUp account: To find the URL, or the status of your referrals, log in to RunSignup.com, click on My Profile, under Runner Links section (at the bottom), My Referrals.
Program Restrictions Apply:
* Max refund is $75 or what was paid as your entry fee, whichever is less. Coupons and discounts will affect this total. (e.g. 10k registrants whose entry fee is less than $75 are only eligible for a refund of the entry fee they paid.)
* Friends must register with your link at time of their registration. Those who sign up without your link will not be added to your referral count.
* Eligible referrals registrations are when your friends/family register through your referral link for the Catalina Island Marathon or 10k.
*Referral refunds will be awarded only once you have reached three (3) and five (5) referrals.
* Refund only applies to registration fee portion of the entry, not the transaction or additional purchase fees tied to the registration.
* Limited time offer. Referrals must be made by 2/28/2025 to receive credit. Race reserves the right to stop or change promotion at any time.
Results
Sustainability
Run Catalina has been on the forefront on the sustainability of running for several years. Our most successful initiative has been to reduce the waste of cups in the Interior by making all of our Run Catalina races Cupless. In 2019 the Catalina Island Marathon applied for recognition as a sustainable event through the Council for Responsible Sport. Here are some of the initiatives that may be of interest and are important to recognize
Cupless -
In cooperation with our host, Catalina Island Conservancy, the Catalina Island Marathon is a CUPLESS COURSE! For hydration, participants can purchase reusable soft-cup. Paricipants may also provide their own hydration system. Thank you for helping us reduce the footprint on the island! You must have your own hydration system or purchase a reusable and collapsible cup from our store. There will not be cups on the island to help.
Catalina Island Conservancy Trailhead - Packet Pick-Up
The Trailhead’s Building Management System displays actual energy and water savings to help educate the public on the importance of energy and water conservation, demonstrating how a building’s design and features can help conserve precious resources and generate savings. The Trailhead’s green features reduce water use by 47% and energy costs by as much as 49%.
The Trailhead was formally approved as a "LEED Certified Gold Status Project" in September 2019, fulfilling the requirements of the LEED Green Building Rating System Certification established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by Green Business Certification, INC. The Trailhead is the only LEED Gold certified building on the Island.
Catalina Cares
See what the community of Catalina is working on to take their community sustainable - https://www.catalinachamber.com/community-information/care-for-catalina/
Travel
Marathoners-
Option A: 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.
IMPORTANT: For travel between Avalon and Two Harbors you will need to purchase an additional boat ticket for race morning when you register online. This is an additional cost of $40 to your race registration. The boat leaves from the "mole" in Avalon at 5:00AM.
Option B: 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. Click HERE for lodging options in Two Harbors.
Option C: IEX Helicopters (“Island Express Helicopters”) best known for operating the West Coast’s largest fleet of twin-engine executive helicopters, as well as their exclusive Catalina Island flights, is offering flights for the marathon to both Avalon and Two Harbors. Fly from our Queen Mary heliport or Orange County to Avalon or Two Harbors. For more information please visit www.IEXhelicopters.com or call our guest relations team at 800-228-2566
Option D: Via Catalina Classic Cruises take the 2:30 a.m. boat on race morning from Long Beach to Two Harbors and then return that same day from Avalon to Long Beach. You will need to purchase the 2:30 am boat ticket from Long Beach to Two Harbors and a return ticket from Avalon to Long Beach. Please see the itinerary below for the Catalina Classic Cruises race morning boat leaving from Long Beach. For more information: Catalina Classic Cruises
Catalina Classic Cruises's new location is at: 1825 W. Pier D Street Long Beach, CA. For more Info: Call (562) 495-3566
Itinerary Race Morning Boat from Long Beach
2:15am departure from Long Beach to Avalon
4:30am arrival at Avalon
5:00am depart from Avalon to Two Harbors
6:00am ETA into Two Harbors
10K, 5K, and Kids Run-
Travel to Avalon on the 6:15 a.m. Catalina Express and pick up your registration at Wrigley Stage.
Where to Stay
Marathon Runners:
Your best option is to stay in Avalon on Friday night and take the 5:00 am boat to Two Harbors. There is some limited housing in Two Harbors, but you need to book early. For the Avalon housing options we suggest you try one of our host hotels.
BOOK ONLINE OR
CALL RESERVATIONS
(310) 510-0325
For more Information contact the Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce
