ADVENTURE AWAITS YOU
Explore the untouched coastline of northern California's redwood forests, black sand beaches, and crashing Pacific waves blanketed by fog. All while running through roaming elk herds and basking seal colonies.
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The Lost Coast
Trail Running Expedition
Description
Ranked by Backpacker Magazine as one of the best hikes ever, The Lost Coast Trail is known for its raw beauty and is one of the longest stretches of untouched coastline in the contiguous United States. Too rugged for development, the area forced engineers to move many miles inland during the development of Highway 1 and since has remained a home to sea life, elk herds, bears, and an unchanged landscape dating back to the times of Jack London. Its magnificent vistas and varied terrain, dense redwood forests, paint brushed prairies, sweeping coastal bluffs, and black sand beaches reward anyone adventurous enough to explore them.
Most trails will be on sandy beaches, single-track trails, and may have some obstacles such as rocks and tree limbs, but don’t be intimidated. This is a trip designed for enjoyment. We will not be in a hurry when out on runs. Much of this running will be slow and leisurely along beaches and cliffs with built-in breaks for pictures and time to explore. The primary focus of this expedition is to explore the freedom and adventure that running brings. You also may pick up tips on new skill sets such as fast packing, wilderness camping, etc. as a bonus.
Details
ADVENTURE LEVEL / WHO SHOULD ATTEND
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Intermediate / Advanced - While this trip is geared toward intermediate to advanced runners, anyone that has a love for adventure and trail running will benefit from attending this event.
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Attendees should be able to run between 10 - 25 miles a day at an easy pace on various grades.
GROUP SIZE AND GUIDES
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There will be a maximum of 8 runners. Spots are available on a first come, first serve basis and typically fill up quickly so register today to secure your spot.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
You will need to arrive at Arcata/Eureka Airport in McKinnleyville, CA before 2:00 pm on the first day if you wish to ride with our shuttle. We will leave at 2:00 pm sharp to head towards The Lost Coast Trail. If you do not wish to meet us at the airport then you will need to make your own way to Petrolia, CA, arriving by 4:00 pm the evening of the first day. Suggestions and guidance will be provided once the group is set!
WEATHER
Early fall tends to be one of the better times to experience the Lost Coast because it falls between the dry season and wet season. Be prepared for a chance of rain and expect average highs in the high 60s and average lows in the low 50s.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please read all trip and itinerary details, along with the FAQs, Cancellation Policy and the Release from Liability. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us.
Itinerary
DAY 1
We will arrive at Arcata/Eureka Airport in McKinnleyville, CA and meet up by 2:00 pm. Then we will take our time driving through northern California to reach the north side of The Lost Coast. The evening will be spent relaxing, going over logistics, gear checks, getting to know each other, and enjoying dinner before turning in for the night.
DAY 2
After breakfast, we hit the trail early to give ourselves plenty of time to enjoy the coastal morning air. Once on the trail everyone is encouraged to run and explore as much as possible. Expect to see abandoned light houses, seals, untouched coastline, rivers, coastal bluffs, and Pacific waves. We will stop for breaks and to eat lunch together along the way. Camp will be made several miles inland under old growth forests as we will enjoy dinner and some rest by the fire.
DAY 3
Wake to a hot breakfast before suiting up and beginning the day's adventure. Today’s mileage will be shorter to give everyone time to recover from the previous days effort. However, there will be more climbing as we move from the beach into the surrounding mountains and into dense redwood forests. Expect to see sweeping views from atop cliffs and get lost deep in mystic forests. We will arrive at camp early to eat, rest, and give everyone time to explore the abondoned 18th century dairy farm on the Pacific Ocean that will be home for the night.
DAY 4
Rested for our final push, we undertake what is going to be the most challenging, yet most rewarding day. Winding through the trails we will be dwarfed by centuries old redwood giants, run along side elk herds, and come across some of the most awe inspiring yet hidden places that The Lost Coast has to offer. After completing our epic adventure, we celebrate in the evening at Usal Beach and relish in our accomplishment.
DAY 5
Waking rested the next morning, we will eat breakfast and make our way back to Arcata/Eureka Airport before saying our goodbyes… but only until our next adventure!
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COST
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$1,295 + fees
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Total pricing per person.
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$500 deposit guarantees your spot.
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Total balance due by TBD.
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Includes all meals, swag, ground transportation, camping, guided runs through breath-taking landscapes.
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Trip prices do not include flights, alcohol, tips, personal gear, visas (if applicable) or personal purchases.