Santa Catalina Island is a rocky island off the coast of the U.S. state of California in the Gulf of Santa Catalina. The island name is often shortened to Catalina Island or just 'Catalina'. The island is 22 mi (35 km) long and 8 mi (13 km) across at its greatest width. The island is located about 29 mi (47 km) south-southwest of Long Beach, California.

Mount Orizaba is the loftiest point on Santa Catalina Island. Rising straight from the pounding surf to anchor the eastern half of the island, its earthen ramparts tower over the cool waters of the Pacific.

Given its proximity to 14 million people, and the ease of ascent, one might expect crowds of casual hikers but Orizaba is remarkably isolated. Most island tourists keep to the bay of Avalon and its civilized pleasures.

Although still bare of trees on its higher slopes, Mount Orizaba is recovering from the deforestation and subsequent erosion that resulted from years of exploitation by man and beast. Today, Orizaba is wholly owned by the Catalina Island Conservancy, which is dedicated to preserving the health and vitality of Catalina's unique environment in perpetuity for the benefit of future generations.

From the summit one can experience sweeping panoramic vistas of emerald ocean, azure skies and rugged earth. San Clemente Island, Palos Verdes, the San Gabriel Mountains, the Santa Monica Mountains and Santiago Peak are all visible from the summit on a clear day. The summit is at 2,097 feet (639 m).

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