Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Intrepid travelers whisper the existence of California's "Lost Coast," 60 miles of unspoiled coastline and wilderness nestled between Mendocino and Humboldt counties. Ironically, this coastline is anything but lost; rather, because no highway runs through the region and there is a lack of services along the way, people have left this rugged coastline to the bears and sea lions. A handful of backpackers arrive in summer to enjoy the rush of the ocean, the wind raging through the redwoods, and Sinkyone Wilderness State Park's Lost Coast trail with 60 miles of epic beauty. Animals thrive here. Spot sea lions and harbor seals at Little Jackass ...

Intrepid travelers whisper the existence of California's "Lost Coast," 60 miles of unspoiled coastline and wilderness nestled between Mendocino and Humboldt counties. Ironically, this coastline is anything but lost; rather, because no highway runs through the region and there is a lack of services along the way, people have left this rugged coastline to the bears and sea lions. A handful of backpackers arrive in summer to enjoy the rush of the ocean, the wind raging through the redwoods, and Sinkyone Wilderness State Park's Lost Coast trail with 60 miles of epic beauty. Animals thrive here. Spot sea lions and harbor seals at Little Jackass Cove. In winter, the California gray whale migration passes close by. A herd of Roosevelt elk wanders the park. And bears are abundant. There are no services, so campers need to get goods before arrival. It is wise to know that it is quite the trek to get here, so arrange plenty of time for the windy roads.

About the Expert

Michele Bigley is the author of Northern California: An Explorer's Guide and Great Destinations Kauai from Countryman Press.