California has got more to offer than LA, San Francisco and San Diego.  Cali is one of the most unique places in the US, and I’m not just saying that because I’ve been here for years.  Common conception — there’s nothing pass San Francisco, but good weed and hippies and then Eureka and Oregon — wrong.  Besides some of the most lush areas in all of California and an expansive world of Redwoods and Pacific Northwest terrain, there lies the Lost Coast.  The Lost Coast begins at the southern end of Humbolt County sweeping along the coast for 80 miles.

Yes that’s 80 miles of no paved roads, no houses, just wilderness.  The 101 Hwy cuts inland to accomodate the coastal mountain range that drops straight into the ocean.  There are a few ways to attack the Lost Coast, but we rolled into Garberville and headed West to the coast.  Parked, took a shot of tequilla, threw on the packs and headed straight for the beach.  We stuck on the beach for the entire trip.

We had two nights.  First day we hiked 5 miles along the beach (wear hiking boots, this is not a fucking beach stroll) to a secluded revene, camped up on a hill adjacent to the Pacific Ocean and a stream.  Second night we hiked in further, about 3 more miles, to our next stop,  a fortress of drift wood.  The weather was amazing, we even lit candles at night.

Anyway all along the coast there are driftwood shacks built throughout the years.  There are no designated camping spots.  Bears were not a problem, but be sure to bring bear canisters (you can pick them up at the Bureau of Land Management on your way to the beach).  Bring water and a water purification method, and just enjoy the serenity of the Lost Coast, only 4 1/2 hours from San Francisco.

If you’re headed out or thinking about it, throw me a comment with any questions.  Be prepared for rapidly changing weather.  One of the most amazing places I have set foot upon–and it’s all in California.