2.6
(27)
38
hikers
03:13
12.3km
80m
Hiking
The Ka Kahleh Trail is a moderate 7.7-mile hike along the Fort Bragg coastline, offering panoramic ocean views and wildlife sightings.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
673 m
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
5.21 km
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
6.26 km
Highlight • Beach
Translated by Google •
Tip by
7.12 km
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
12.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
10.2 km
1.88 km
266 m
Surfaces
8.88 km
1.17 km
1.12 km
760 m
347 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 26 May
14°C
9°C
30 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 41.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail is part of the Noyo Headlands Park in Fort Bragg. You can find parking areas at various access points along the park, including near Glass Beach or closer to Pudding Creek Beach. Specific trailhead parking information is usually available on local park websites.
Yes, the Ka Kahleh Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check for specific leash requirements or any seasonal restrictions with the Noyo Headlands Park management before your visit to ensure a smooth experience for you and your pet.
The trail offers beautiful coastal views year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, while summer provides warmer weather. Fall often has clear skies, and winter can offer dramatic ocean scenes and whale watching opportunities. For the most comfortable hiking, late spring to early fall is often preferred, but be prepared for coastal fog at any time.
No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the Ka Kahleh Trail or Noyo Headlands Park. It offers free public access to this scenic stretch of the Mendocino Coast.
The Ka Kahleh Trail is considered easy and is highly accessible. It features a wide, paved surface, making it suitable for all skill levels, including families with strollers, wheelchair users, and cyclists. It's rated T1 Hiking on the SAC scale, indicating easily accessible paths.
The trail primarily features an 8-foot wide paved surface, making it very smooth and easy to navigate. It generally follows the bluffs above the coastline, offering a relatively flat or gently graded path with minimal elevation changes.
Along the route, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Key highlights include Glass Beach, Pudding Creek Beach, and the historic Pudding Creek Trestle. The trail also features unique benches crafted by local artists and numerous interpretive panels detailing local history and nature.
The coastal environment provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. You might spot whales (especially during migration seasons), dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for local flora like wildflowers and succulents as well.
The name 'Ka Kahleh' means 'white water' in Northern Pomo, the language of the indigenous people of the area, honoring their heritage. Historically, this stretch of coastline was inaccessible to the public for over a century due to lumber mill operations, making the trail's opening a significant achievement for public access.
Yes, being located in Fort Bragg, there are various amenities nearby. You can find cafes, restaurants, and other services in the town, particularly closer to Noyo Headlands Park and the harbor area, perfect for a post-hike meal or refreshment.
Yes, the Ka Kahleh Trail is a significant segment of the larger California Coastal Trail. While on this route, you may also encounter sections of the Pacific Coast Bike Route (North) and Pacific Coast Bike Route (South), as well as the Haul Road Multiuse Path.
Yes, approximately halfway along the trail, you'll find the Crow's Nest Interpretive Center. This center offers additional insights into the local environment and history, including a tide pool aquarium and various exhibits.