Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A good day hike starts at the Mattole Campground trailhead and travels 3 miles south
along the coast to the Punta Gorda lighthouse (return against the wind).
Ridgeline Trails HIKE
To ditch the crowds, take any of the (strenuous) upland trails off the beach toward the
ridgeline. For a satisfying, hard, 21-mile-long hike originating at the Lost Coast Trail, take
Buck Creek Trail to King Crest Trail to Rattlesnake Ridge Trail. The 360-degree views from
King Peak are stupendous, particularly with a full moon or during a meteor shower. Note
that if you hike up, it can be hellishly hot on the ridges, though the coast remains cool and
foggy; wear removable layers. Carry a topographical map and a compass: signage is lim-
ited.
Information
Aside from a few one-horse villages, Shelter Cove, the isolated unincorporated town 25
long miles west of Garberville, is the only option for services. Get supplies in Garberville,
Fort Bragg, Eureka or Arcata. The area is a patchwork of government-owned land and
private property; visit the Bureau of Land Management office for information, permits and
maps. There are few circuitous routes for hikers, and rangers can advise on reliable (if ex-
pensive) shuttle services in the area.
A few words of caution: lots of weed is grown around here and it's wise to stay on trails
and respect no trespassing signs, lest you find yourself at the business end of someone's
right to bear arms. And pot farmers don't pose the only threat: you'll want to check for
ticks (Lyme disease is common) and keep food in bear-proof containers, which are re-
quired for camping.
Bureau of Land Management TOURIST INFORMATION
(BLM;
707-825-2300, 707-986-5400; 768 Shelter Cove Rd;
8am-4:30pm Mon-Sat Sep-May,
8am-4:30pm Mon-Fri Jun-Aug)
Nine miles east of Shelter Cove, the Bureau of Land Management has maps and directions
for trails and campsites; they're posted outside after hours
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