Lost Coast Trail: Iconic Backpacking Route Along Wild Shoreline. Photo Credit; Bureau of Land Management, American Hiking Society Instagram Takeover- King Range NCA, California (17919363689).jpg
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Published February 26, 2026
Lost Coast Trail: Iconic Backpacking Route Along Wild Shoreline
Stretching 24 to 25 miles along the King Range's remote coast in Humboldt County, the Lost Coast Trail is one of America's premier coastal backpacking routes; a rugged, tide-dependent path between Mattole Beach and Black Sands Beach. This legendary trail offers black-sand beaches, tidepools, and untouched wilderness without roads or crowds.
A Coastal Wilderness and Intertidal Mosaic
The Lost Coast Trail blends black-sand beaches, rocky headlands, dense redwood groves in canyons, and open prairies. Tidepools teem with anemones, sea stars, and crabs; wildlife includes Roosevelt elk, black bears, river otters, harbor seals, and migrating gray whales; the dynamic tides shape the route and marine biodiversity.
Adventure With a Conservation Conscience
Multi-day backpacking (3 to 4 days typical, northbound preferred); tide charts essential (crossings only at low tide). Bear canisters required; camp on beach above high tide.
Access is intentional: shuttle service recommended (private or arrange); overnight permit required (free, Recreation.gov); pack out waste, camp only in designated areas. No fires on beach; check tides and weather (fog/rain common).
Lost Coast Trail delivers iconic backpacking route along Humboldt wild shoreline. For experienced hikers seeking black-sand solitude and tidepool wonders, the route repays tide awareness; a legendary coastal epic.