The Lost Coast Trail traverses one of the most remote and undeveloped stretches of the California coast, following 25 miles of wild shoreline through the King Range National Conservation Area in Humboldt County. The region earned its name from its isolation — the coastal mountains rise so steeply that Highway 1 was rerouted inland, leaving this stretch without paved roads or through-traffic infrastructure. The trail runs point-to-point from Mattole Beach in Petrolia to Black Sands Beach in Shelter Cove, though some hikers reverse the direction.
The northern trailhead at Mattole Beach is reached by driving approximately 65 miles from US-101 via narrow county roads through Ferndale and Petrolia. Shuttle services connect the two trailheads, operated by local outfitters, though many parties stage vehicles at both ends. Overnight backcountry permits are required and obtained through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) office in Arcata via Recreation.gov.
The trail follows the beach for most of its length, with three mandatory tidal bypass sections — Punta Gorda, Sea Lion Gulch, and Gitchell Creek — that require checking a tide chart before departure. These sections can only be safely crossed at low tide; high water makes passage impossible or extremely dangerous. Hikers must plan daily mileage around the tide schedule.
The shoreline consists almost entirely of cobble and gravel rather than sand, dramatically increasing foot fatigue on every step. Several creek crossings add navigation challenges, particularly in spring when streams run high. The route climbs over headlands between beach sections, gaining and losing elevation in short steep bursts. Freshwater sources are available from multiple creeks along the route but all require treatment.
Wildlife along the Lost Coast is abundant — sea lions haul out on offshore rocks, black bears forage the King Range interior, and Roosevelt elk are frequently spotted on beach flats north of Punta Gorda. Cell service is entirely absent for the full length of the trail.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Humboldt County, CA
- Best season
- April-October
Location
Lighthouse Rd, Petrolia, CA 95558
40.2881, -124.3533 View on map
Highlights
- Hiking an entirely roadless, undeveloped section of the California coastline
- Navigating tidal bypass sections — a genuine coastal wilderness challenge requiring tide chart planning
- Spotting Roosevelt elk on the beach flats and sea lions hauled out on offshore rocks
- Punta Gorda Lighthouse — a historic 1912 structure accessible only on foot
- The King Range peaks rising 4,000 feet directly above the ocean shoreline
Tips for visiting
- Download a tide chart before departure and plan daily mileage around the three tidal bypass sections — attempting them at high tide can be fatal
- Bring trekking poles for cobble beach walking — the irregular surface causes significantly more ankle fatigue than maintained trail
- April and May offer green hillsides and wildflowers but expect high creek levels and some rainfall
- Obtain required overnight permits in advance through the BLM Arcata field office via Recreation.gov
- Bear canisters are strongly encouraged; bear boxes exist at some sites but are not available at all campsites
- A satellite communicator (Garmin inReach or SPOT) is strongly recommended — there is zero cell coverage for the entire route
When to visit
Late April through October offers the most reliable weather, with June and September typically the driest and calmest months. Summer fog is common but usually burns off by midday. Winter visits are possible but high seas and heavy rainfall significantly increase hazard.
Accessibility
The Lost Coast Trail is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. The route traverses rough cobble beaches, unmaintained headland paths, and tidal rocky sections. It is inaccessible to anyone with limited mobility.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Lost Coast Trail hiked north to south or south to north?
The trail is commonly hiked north to south (Mattole to Shelter Cove) to walk with prevailing southbound winds and ocean currents. South-to-north is possible but is typically against the wind.
Are permits required for the Lost Coast Trail?
Overnight camping permits are required and issued by the Bureau of Land Management through Recreation.gov. Day use does not require a permit, but the full trail is typically hiked over 3 to 4 days.
How difficult are the tidal sections?
The tidal bypass sections at Punta Gorda, Sea Lion Gulch, and Gitchell Creek are impassable at high tide. Consulting a tide chart is mandatory — not optional — and daily mileage must accommodate crossing windows.
Is the trail marked?
Beach sections are unmarked — hikers follow the shoreline. Tidal bypass and headland routes have minimal marking and require map and compass navigation. A detailed topo map is essential.
What wildlife might hikers encounter?
The Lost Coast hosts black bears, Roosevelt elk, mountain lions, gray whales (seasonal), harbor seals, sea otters, and numerous shorebirds. Store food properly and maintain distance from all wildlife.