Black Sands Beach trailhead - Shelter Cove
Black Sands Beach trailhead - Shelter Cove
Highlight • Beach
Black Sands Beach trailhead - Shelter Cove
Hiking
5.0
(9)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Rocks and Islands Wilderness
Tips
December 16, 2016
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Black Sands Beach trailhead - Shelter Cove
40.5km
10:27
200m
210m
The Lost Coast Trail from Mattole to Black Sands Beach offers an unparalleled journey through California's most rugged and undeveloped coastline. You'll traverse expansive black sand beaches, navigate rocky sections, and cross numerous streams, all while dramatic mountains meet the Pacific. This wild landscape, punctuated by tide pools and cascading waterfalls, provides a profound sense of solitude and untamed beauty.
This is a difficult 25.2-mile (40.5 km) point-to-point hike with 667 feet (203 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 10 hours and 27 minutes. Crucially, you must plan your trek around tidal charts, as several sections become impassable at high tide. The trail is remote with no cell service, and bear canisters are required for food storage; the best time to go is generally May through October.
What makes this route truly special is its untouched nature; the rugged topography prevented Highway 1 from being built here, preserving a rare, wild coastal wilderness. It's a challenging experience that rewards you with dramatic ocean views, abundant wildlife like sea lions, and a unique opportunity to disconnect from the modern world.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
6.52km
01:41
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
12.3km
03:08
40m
40m
The Black Sands Beach loop from Gitchell Creek offers a rugged immersion into California's remote Lost Coast, a truly unique hiking experience. You'll trek across varied terrain, from soft black sand to rocky sections, all while enjoying breathtaking ocean views and the dramatic backdrop of towering cliffs. This moderate 7.7-mile (12.3 km) route, with 125 feet (38 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 8 minutes, making it a rewarding challenge for those seeking wilderness.
Careful planning is essential for this adventure, especially regarding the tides. Sections of the trail become impassable at high tide, so consulting tide charts before you set out is non-negotiable. The trailhead is accessible from Gitchell Creek, and while no specific permits are mentioned for this loop, always check for current regulations. Spring is a fantastic time to visit, when wildflowers add vibrant color to the coastal landscape.
What truly sets this trail apart is its location on the Lost Coast, one of California's last undeveloped stretches of coastline. The distinctive black sand of Black Sands Beach is a geological marvel, and the area is rich with wildlife, from sea lions to deer, whose tracks you might spot in the sand. This hike offers a profound sense of remoteness and a chance to experience nature untamed, far from the crowds of more popular trails near Black Sands Beach California.
Details
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Elevation -20 m
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