3-Day Lost Coast Trek In Northern California

Most of California’s coast is paved or fenced. But not this stretch. The Lost Coast is where the mountains drop straight into the Pacific Ocean and the road gives up. What’s left is raw coastline, pounding surf, driftwood camps, and a narrow trail hugging the edge of the world.

This multi-day trek is perfect if you’re craving silence, space, and a reminder that the wild still exists. You’ll walk miles of empty beach, watch sea lions from the cliffs, and fall asleep to the sound of waves and wind. There’s no cell signal. No buildings. Just ocean, sky, and whatever you carry on your back.

The Lost Coast Trail runs through California’s King Range National Conservation Area, one of the most remote backpacking routes in the Lower 48. It’s rugged and minimalist. A place to strip it all down. Wake up with the sun. Move with the tides. Let the ocean reset your nervous system.

You’ll need to time your hike carefully as some sections are impassable during high tide. But that’s part of the rhythm. You rest when the sea says rest. You walk when the land allows. It’s humbling, grounding, and deeply healing.

This is a trail for quiet people, creative souls, and anyone ready to trade screen time for sea spray and starry nights. If you’re ready to walk where the road ends, this one’s for you.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Mattole Beach to Punta Gorda Lighthouse (Camp near Sea Lion Gulch)

• Start at Mattole Trailhead near Petrolia
• Hike 3–5 miles along black sand and driftwood-strewn shoreline
• Visit the old Punta Gorda Lighthouse, often surrounded by sea lions
• Camp near Sea Lion Gulch or in one of the driftwood shelters on the beach

Day 2: Sea Lion Gulch to Big Flat Creek or Miller Flat

• Hike 8–10 miles of beach and bluff trail
• Time your trek around the tide schedule to safely cross the impassable zones
• Stop for lunch near creeks or grassy flats
• Camp at Big Flat or Miller Flat, where the mountains meet the ocean

Day 3: Big Flat to Black Sands Beach (via Shipman Creek)

• Wake early to catch the low tide window
• Hike through the final wild stretch, with crashing surf on your left and cliffs on your right
• Arrive at Black Sands Beach trailhead near Shelter Cove
• Optional overnight at a nearby lodge or beach camp if not shuttling out immediately

Optional Day 4: Rest and Reflection in Shelter Cove

• Spend the day reading, journaling, and watching the surf
• Visit tidepools, sip hot coffee, and let your body catch up
• Reflect on what you left behind and what you picked up along the way

What to Bring:

• Lightweight backpacking setup (tent, bag, pad)
• Bear canister (required) for food storage
• Water filter and extra water capacity (some long dry stretches)
• Tide chart + map or GPS app
• Rain jacket, layers, and quick-dry clothes
• Hiking shoes or sandals that handle wet, rocky sand
• Permit (free but required from BLM)
• Trekking poles (for rocky sections)
• Extra socks and foot balm (the sand will eat your feet)
• Waterproof bags or pack liner
• Lightweight towel and biodegradable soap
• Journal, sketchpad, or beach book

Trail Info and Difficulty:

Level: Moderate to challenging
Distance: 25 miles
Time: 3 to 4 days
Terrain: Beach, bluff, rocky zones, tide-dependent sections
Best Season: May to October (check tides and weather always)

This is not a technical trail, but it is wild. Wind, fog, rain, and rogue waves can show up fast. You’ll need to read tide charts and know when to stop and wait.

Ready to Walk the Wild Coast of California?

This is one of the last true coastal wilderness hikes in the country. It asks for your attention, your patience, and your respect. In return, it gives you stillness, presence, and the deep peace that only comes from walking the edge.

Let’s plan your Lost Coast trek. Book a free call and we’ll help you figure out permits, tides, gear, and logistics so you can hit the trail with clarity and confidence.

Location

FAQ

Google Reviews

4.7

25 reviews

Add Review

Read More Reviews