Images of Avalon on Catalina Island – off the coast of California one hour from Los Angeles by boat, taken in June 2013.

Although not included in the national park, Santa Catalina Island is a member of the Channel Island chain of islands off the coast of California. It was developed in the 1920’s by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley and became the go-to site for the famous and wealthy. The island landmark, the Casino (not a gambling site), is located in the town of Avalon.

I traveled to Catalina Island with Beth (we attended the University of Arizona several years ago although I’m not revealing how many) for a few days of R&R prior to undertaking the rest of my journey. While there we toured the magnificent Casino building and took the Avalon Ghost Tour. Food, drink and wonderful company before setting off to tackle the remaining seven national parks on my itinerary…