Thoughts on The Lost Coast

I really enjoyed my journey down the Lost Coast. Like all good trips, it was much more than the footsteps that made up the 25 miles. There's something about being out in the wild, with everything you need on your back, to make you feel like you're alive. You become more aware of the air you are breathing, the sun that is on your face, and beautiful sights that your eyes are witnessing. Sounds are more clear, thoughts more focused, and everything just feels right with the world. It is a feeling I used to know well when I was younger, and I am thankful to have it rekindled in my soul.





When I close my eyes and think of the trip, the pain in my knees and on the blisters of my feet have faded much like the raw sores on my heels cleared up this last week after returning. All I see now is the golden poppies on green hills backed by deep blue skies, powerful waves breaking on clean pristine beaches, and the sun setting on the vast sea. I can still smell the fresh ocean breeze, and hear the sound of the surf crashing and rumbling around the rocks beneath it. The battery indicator on my soul is at full bars, and I can only hope to plan another great adventure before they begin to fade again.



As to what I've learned of the trail, I would characterize it as an intermediate level trip. Those with no experience in the backcountry might want to cut your teeth first on a shorter trail that offers the option of turning back. Once you are dropped on that beach in Mattole it is a long 25 miles across ever changing terrain back out again. All the same, I wouldn't call it difficult. I would only suggest to take care of your feet, know your tides, and respect the ocean (as all the literature says, never turn your back on it). Water and firewood are plentiful, and the camps at the various creeks are wonderful places to stay. Tread lightly, and help keep this pristine stretch of coastline as pure as you found it.

If you haven't already, check out the hike on a map with the GPS points linked below. It's kind of cool to zoom in and see the terrain. I especially like the Google Earth trip here. Just download and install Google Earth if you don't have it, and load the trip. Hit play trip and then press the arrows to move between photo points.


Lost Coast Trail at EveryTrail


Map your trip with EveryTrail