2 to 4 days . two boots . Apr to Jun, Oct
Big Sur coast backpack.
Climb out of the redwoods, pitch tents on a ridge 2,000 feet above the Pacific and watch the fog roll in beneath you. Our shortest trip and the easiest one to say yes to.
At a glance
The short version
- Base rate $360 per person per day, groups of 3 to 5
- 5 to 8 miles a day, about 2,000 ft of climbing on day one
- Tents on a ridge, water carried up from the creek
- 2.5 hours from Los Gatos, we drive
- Good first backpacking trip
per person$650 to $3,080
2 days in a big group, up to 4 days private with lodge nights and gearMiles per day, the 4 day version.
The 2 day trip is days one and four. The 3 day adds the ridge walk. Every day ends before 3pm so there is time to sit and stare.
The honest part
Fog can sit on the coast for days in June. From the ridge you are usually above it, but some mornings you are inside a cloud. Bring a warm layer. Poison oak grows along the lower trail. Wear long pants, and we carry a wash that takes the oil off your skin.
Who it suits
First time backpackers, couples on an anniversary, a team that wants two days away and back by Sunday dinner. If you want more miles and huts, look at Sierra hut to hut. Want beach the whole way? The Lost Coast trek is your trip.
Spring weekends go first.
April and May are wildflower months and fill early. October is the quiet favorite, clear and warm. Send your dates through the trip desk form and June will write back with what is open. For a private crew, see private trips.