The Lost Coast is a remote stretch of the California coastline so rugged that it forced the Coast Highway farther inland. This rare stretch of paradise is a must-do for the backpacker looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience—a true MT Sobek adventure. As you traverse the landscape, watch for sea lions, explore tide pools, and enjoy a colorful bounty of wildflowers. Expect to backpack through sand, over rock cobbles, and across streams, with the occasional stretch of smooth hiking trail. Enjoy views of towering mountains, crystal-clear cascading rivers, endless views of the Pacific Ocean, and a diverse array of extraordinary wildlife. Your expert MT Sobek guides handle the details—getting you to the trailhead, teaching you about the history of the landscape, and preparing fantastic backcountry meals—leaving you free to fully focus on enjoying this incredible backpacking adventure.
The Lost Coast is a remote stretch of the California coastline so rugged that it forced the Coast Highway farther inland. This rare stretch of paradise is a must-do for the backpacker looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience—a true MT Sobek adventure. As you traverse the landscape, watch for sea lions, explore tide pools, and enjoy a colorful bounty of wildflowers. Expect to backpack through sand, over rock cobbles, and across streams, with the occasional stretch of smooth hiking trail. Enjoy views of towering mountains, crystal-clear cascading rivers, endless views of the Pacific Ocean, and a diverse array of extraordinary wildlife. Your expert MT Sobek guides handle the details—getting you to the trailhead, teaching you about the history of the landscape, and preparing fantastic backcountry meals—leaving you free to fully focus on enjoying this incredible backpacking adventure.
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[HighlightText] => Backpack 25 miles of pristine California coastline, where rugged cliffs meet the roaring Pacific
[Description] => Backpack 25 miles of pristine California coastline, where rugged cliffs meet the roaring Pacific
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[HighlightText] => Take a bucket-list backpacking journey through breathtaking wilderness, with the chance to spot sea lions, otters, and migrating whales
[Description] => Take a bucket-list backpacking journey through breathtaking wilderness, with the chance to spot sea lions, otters, and migrating whales
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Discover the remote beauty of the King Range National Conservation Area, a wild, roadless stretch of Northern California that few ever reach
Arrive in Santa Rosa & Hike Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Day 1
Meet your group at Charles M. Schulz Airport in Santa Rosa, where you'll have an orientation and gear check with your guide. Then set off on your journey north to Humboldt Redwoods State Park—home to some of the world's tallest and oldest redwoods! Take a short hike among these impressive trees, then transfer to your campsite, where your expert MT Sobek guides will prepare dinner and discuss the adventure ahead.
Accommodation: Humboldt Redwoods State Park Campground
Activity: 1-2 miles/1 hour hiking
Transportation: 4-hour private van transfer
Meals: Dinner
Backpack to Punta Gorda Lighthouse & Along the California Coast
Day 2
Load up your backpack with personal gear and your portion of the group gear, then transfer a short distance to the trailhead. Your hike begins on sand, dotted with colorful ice plants and other coastal flora. The sand gives way to beach pebbles and bits of trail on solid ground as you approach the Punta Gorda Lighthouse. Built in 1910 after several fatal shipwrecks off this rocky coast, the lighthouse is one of the few signs of civilization you’ll encounter on your adventure. Cross a rocky stretch to an overland detour around an impassable rock outcrop, leading you to spectacular vistas up and down the rugged coastline. Keep an eye out for elephant seals! Tonight, camp at Cooskie Creek.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp – California Lost Coast Trail Backcountry
Activity: 6.3 miles/4-5 hours backpacking
Transportation: 30-minute private transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trace the Pacific Ocean to Big Creek Camp
Day 3
Your adventure continues south from Cooksie Creek, following a rugged stretch of coastline across cobbles and coarse black sand until you reach a grassy terrace. The route requires close attention to the timing of the tides, as several sections become impassable at high tide. Flexibility and a sense of adventure are key today! The goal is to reach Big Creek campsite by midafternoon. With camp set up, you'll likely have the afternoon free to wander the beach, search for shells and driftwood, or find a quiet spot to kick back with a book and enjoy the solitude.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp – California Lost Coast Trail Backcountry
Activity: 7 miles/5-6 hours backpacking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Gitchell Creek Through Lush Landscapes
Day 4
Today's hike takes you from Big Creek, through thickets of twisted pine trees and across several babbling creeks on your way to camp at Gitchell Creek. This stretch of the Lost Coast is particularly lush, with several glistening springs pouring from the mountainside and onto the sand, sustaining hanging wildflower gardens bright with monkey flowers and other water-loving plants. You may also encounter wildlife, such as deer, sea otters, and sea birds. The scenery here is particularly dramatic, with mountains and forest dropping precipitously down to the beach. Reach your camp, stroll along the sand, and be mesmerized by the rolling waves of the Pacific.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp – California Lost Coast Trail Backcountry
Activity: 7.6 miles/6-7 hours backpacking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Finish at Black Sands Beach & Depart
Day 5
Today marks the final leg of your Lost Coast adventure, culminating at Black Sands Beach. You'll hike across the dark sand on the wide beach, listening to the sound of the surf, which has been your constant companion over the last few days. Savor one last look at this wild coastline and celebrate your backpacking accomplishment. Our van will be waiting to collect you and your gear. Then set off for Santa Rosa, stopping to purchase lunch enroute. You should arrive in Santa Rosa late this afternoon, though this may vary depending on trail and road conditions, group pace, and weather..
Itinerary Some hiking days may require starts as early as 5:00 am in order to time the tides correctly for the safety of the group. Similarly, some departures may run the itinerary in reverse for the same reason. Some sections of the trail become impassable during high tides.
Dates & Prices
2026
Go Custom
Inclusions
2026
Scheduled Dates
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Ashley K.
Ashley is an adventurous spirit with a passion for the great outdoors. She has extensive experience guiding trips in breathtaking landscapes, including Alaska, Zion, Canyonlands, Arches, Yosemite, and Death Valley. Her journey into the outdoors began with a college wilderness survival course, sparking a curiosity that led her to become a Wilderness-EMT, blending her medical expertise with her love for adventure. Ashley's love for nature knows no bounds!
Chris K.
Chris grew up splitting time between coastal Massachusetts and Northern California, finding a deep appreciation for both the ocean and mountains. Guiding since 2010, Chris has enjoyed travels around the world but thinks some of the best adventures can be found closer to home in the Western United States. He is grateful to have the unusual opportunity through guiding to share his love of this region with guests.
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[Headline] => Arrive in Santa Rosa & Hike Humboldt Redwoods State Park
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Meet your group at Charles M. Schulz Airport in Santa Rosa, where you\'ll have an orientation and gear check with your guide. Then set off on your journey north to Humboldt Redwoods State Park—home to some of the world\'s tallest and oldest redwoods! Take a short hike among these impressive trees, then transfer to your campsite, where your expert MT Sobek guides will prepare dinner and discuss the adventure ahead.
Load up your backpack with personal gear and your portion of the group gear, then transfer a short distance to the trailhead. Your hike begins on sand, dotted with colorful ice plants and other coastal flora. The sand gives way to beach pebbles and bits of trail on solid ground as you approach the Punta Gorda Lighthouse. Built in 1910 after several fatal shipwrecks off this rocky coast, the lighthouse is one of the few signs of civilization you’ll encounter on your adventure. Cross a rocky stretch to an overland detour around an impassable rock outcrop, leading you to spectacular vistas up and down the rugged coastline. Keep an eye out for elephant seals! Tonight, camp at Cooskie Creek.
Your adventure continues south from Cooksie Creek, following a rugged stretch of coastline across cobbles and coarse black sand until you reach a grassy terrace. The route requires close attention to the timing of the tides, as several sections become impassable at high tide. Flexibility and a sense of adventure are key today! The goal is to reach Big Creek campsite by midafternoon. With camp set up, you\'ll likely have the afternoon free to wander the beach, search for shells and driftwood, or find a quiet spot to kick back with a book and enjoy the solitude.
Today\'s hike takes you from Big Creek, through thickets of twisted pine trees and across several babbling creeks on your way to camp at Gitchell Creek. This stretch of the Lost Coast is particularly lush, with several glistening springs pouring from the mountainside and onto the sand, sustaining hanging wildflower gardens bright with monkey flowers and other water-loving plants. You may also encounter wildlife, such as deer, sea otters, and sea birds. The scenery here is particularly dramatic, with mountains and forest dropping precipitously down to the beach. Reach your camp, stroll along the sand, and be mesmerized by the rolling waves of the Pacific.
Today marks the final leg of your Lost Coast adventure, culminating at Black Sands Beach. You\'ll hike across the dark sand on the wide beach, listening to the sound of the surf, which has been your constant companion over the last few days. Savor one last look at this wild coastline and celebrate your backpacking accomplishment. Our van will be waiting to collect you and your gear. Then set off for Santa Rosa, stopping to purchase lunch enroute. You should arrive in Santa Rosa late this afternoon, though this may vary depending on trail and road conditions, group pace, and weather..
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[ActivityHighlight] => You should be capable of carrying a full backpack for up to 8 miles per day (up to 6 hours per day). Your backpack will weigh 35-40 pounds, which includes 5-10 pounds of group gear. The terrain can be rugged and may require some rock scrambling to negotiate. We will be crossing long stretches of soft sand and gravel with no established trail. There is a potential for stream crossings. This is not a beginning backpack trip. You must have experience backpacking and camping in remote locations.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. You should be capable of carrying a full backpack for up to 8 miles per day (up to 6 hours per day). Your backpack will weigh 35-40 pounds, which includes 5-10 pounds of group gear. The terrain can be rugged and may require some rock scrambling to negotiate. We will be crossing long stretches of soft sand and gravel with no established trail. There is a potential for stream crossings. This is not a beginning backpack trip. You must have experience backpacking and camping in remote locations. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
1-2 miles/1 hour hiking
Day 2
6.3 miles/4-5 hours backpacking
Day 3
7 miles/5-6 hours backpacking
Day 4
7.6 miles/6-7 hours backpacking
Day 5
3.7 miles/2-3 hours backpacking
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Spend four nights camping in the backcountry sites right near the Pacific Ocean.
MT Sobek Camp – California Lost Coast Trail Backcountry
Backpacking campsites along California's Lost Coast Trail offers a unique and immersive experience. Stay in two-person tents pitched near freshwater streams that flow into the Pacific Ocean with breathtaking views of sandy beaches, rocky shores, and grassy bluffs. Wildlife abounds—seals, sea lions, and birds are common—but bear canisters are required for food storage. This off-the-grid experience offers an unforgettable connection to nature in one of California's wildest coastal regions.
Camping at Humboldt Redwoods State Park is an unforgettable experience nestled among some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. The park features serene campgrounds surrounded by towering coast redwoods, providing a tranquil and awe-inspiring setting. With amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms, campers can enjoy the beauty of nature with a touch of convenience.
Weather
Daytime temperatures in the 60s with nighttime temperatures in the 40s-50s.
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Lost Coast Trail
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Lost Coast Trail
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FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
We recommend guests arrive in Santa Rosa, California (airport code STS) by 7:30 am on Day 1 of the itinerary. Meet your guide and group at 9:30 am in the main terminal of the airport.
Can you recommend a hotel in Santa Rosa?
There are lots of options in the area. We like Hilton Garden Inn Sonoma County Airport for its convenience, airport shuttle service, and free parking.
What are the best months to hike the Lost Coast?
The trail is accessible year-round; however, the summer months are your best option for favorable weather and longer daylight hours. Important when planning tidal timing for safe navigation. MT Sobek offers this trip in May, June, and July.
What is the best footwear for hiking the Lost Coast?
Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and a durable, grippy sole are recommended for backpacking the Lost Coast. They should be breathable and waterproof. Whatever footwear you choose, ensure they are well broken-in and comfortable for you. Sand gaiters are a nice addition for hiking the Lost Coast. They prevent sand from getting into your footwear.
Do I have to carry my own backpack?
Yes! You will be carrying a backpack with your own gear, weighing approximately 30-40 pounds, which includes 5-10 pounds of group gear.
What about the ocean tides?
The Lost Coast Trail has several sections that are only passable during low tide. Your expert guides will plan the daily hikes around the tide schedule for each of these sections so you can sit back and enjoy the scenery.
Will I see wildlife on the Lost Coast?
The Lost Coast Trail is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering chances to encounter black bears, Roosevelt elk, and an array of marine life such as elephant seals, sea lions, sea otters, and whales. Birdwatchers will also delight in the area's rich avian population, which includes eagles, vultures, and a variety of seabirds.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for these trips is 18. Families with fit younger teens may consider private and custom trip options.
