Many months ago Jay and I talked about arranging another short backpacking trip. After some thought, I figured that the Lost Coast which we last visited in 2006, fit the bill. With temperatures in the triple digits, there was no better time for Jay to escape the Sacramento heat. On July 4th we headed for the coast. Jay and Chris have posted many photos on their Facebook pages in addition to what I will add here.

Despite 4th of July parades detouring us through the back streets of Willits, and discovering the road to the trailhead washed out more than a year ago, we overcame all obstacles to enjoy the cool coastal temperatures.

A few notes for would-be Lost Coast hikers:

1) Taxifornia raised the price to backpack in this utterly unmaintained area with no services, trail, or road maintenance from $3 per night per person to $5.

2) You now must hike 2.4 miles from the road closure gate to the trailhead, as the unmaintained road has washed off down the hillside. (This is for the southern route to Wheeler. I have no idea what the trail conditions are north of Shelter Cove, but I have heard they are also bad.)

3) Poison oak is all over the place. Wash with Tecnu when you get out or during your trip if sensitive.

4) The trail has an added slide since the last time we visited. This spot will only get worse with time.

Enjoy the photos.