Lost Coast Trail

Description:

The Lost Coast Trail is one of the world’s premier wilderness beach treks. Located on a remote roadless stretch of the Northern California coastline this trail follows the path of collision between the land and sea. To run this trail is to experience rugged and stunning beaches, sublime ocean vistas, spectacular sunsets, and the diversity of creatures whose life exists in the primeval intertidal universe.

Course Overview
Wednesday, Day 1: Drive to Camp
We meet our runners Wednesday evening at 4pm in Fortuna CA. We shuttle runners to the Mattole River campground, enjoy a spectacular dinner on the beach, and make final preparations for an amazing 3-day run.

Thursday, Day 2: 25-27 Miles. 1,000’ to 4,500’ of Elevation Gain
A full day of beach run/trekking awaits. The trail follows the line of the sand and sea and disappears in and out of rocky bluffs, over streams, through tide flats, and across beaches. We finish the day with a climb up King Mountain and serve dinner out of the Tolkan Campground.

Friday, Day 3: 9-20 Miles. 500’ to 3,500’ of Elevation Gain
This day is spent traversing coastal mountains. The single track decent along Chemise Mountain drops into some of the most spectacular beach bluffs, Eucalyptus groves, and ocean vistas on the planet. The run finishes right at the Needle Rock Campground. Don’t be surprised to hang out with the resident elk herd.

Saturday, Day 4: 20 Miles. 6,300’ of Elevation Gain
This final day of running combines steep climbs up coastal headlands, culminating in epic vistas of the pacific coastline and equally steep descents into remote beaches. Add in a few pocket groves of coastal Redwoods and it all adds up to a pretty spectacular day on the trail finishing at Usal Beach Campground.

Sunday Day 5: Drive to Fortuna CA
Given the variation and variables in how long it takes folks to finish day 4 we opt to celebrate together on Saturday night and use Sunday as our departure/driving day. We have runners back to their cars in Fortuna CA between noon and 1pm.

Detailed Trip Information
For complete information about this trip, itineraries, packing and gear lists, menu and dietary information, safety protocols, and trip policies consult the Lost Coast Course Info Packet available on the Lost Coast page of our website. www.AspireAdventureRunning.com

Trip Insurance
Every year we have at least one runner who due to injury, illness, or personal/familial circumstances can not participate in their registered trip. While registrations can be transferred, Aspire does not issue refunds. See our FAQ’s. We strongly encourage each runner to purchase 3rd party trip insurance that will reimburse the cost of registration in the event that you are unable to participate in the event.

About Aspire
Aspire organizes single and multi-day running adventures in backcountry and wilderness terrain. We pair logistical and emergency support with delicious meals for a unique and memorable running experience. More info about our project is available at: www.AspireAdventureRunning.com