Lost Coast Trail, Northern California: My Perfect 3-Day Backpacking Getaway (No Tent Needed!)

DAY 1: We arrived at the parking lot at 6 am, and hopped in a van full of other hikers, which would take us the starting point at Mattole Beach . The first 3 miles of the hike are all on the sand. You know what it's like walking in sand...it can be tricky! But the beautiful views of the ocean, the seals, and the flowers, made it all worth it. 3 hours later, we were ready to set up camp. We set up right in the sand, behind a large piece of driftwood. There is truly nothing better then sleeping next to the ocean with no one around. So peaceful.

DAY 2: We woke up early, made coffee, and began treking on. The hike the whole way is pretty level; no crazy uphills or downhills. The only thing you need to be careful of is the tide. If the tide is too high at certain points, you won't be able to cross/you will have to wait for a couple hours till the tide goes back out. Luckily we had done a lot of research and planning, so we didn't get stuck! A couple of hours later, we found a beautiful place to set up camp. This time near large boulders. Again, going in July is highly recommended because the weather is so beautiful, we just slept outside with no tent. 

DAY 3: We awoke to rain falling on our face at 5 am. Eager to get back and golf down a cheeseburger, we began our trek. The last day of hiking is so beautiful, and quite eery as well. To your left there are huge boulders, and to your right the ocean goes on for miles.The sand is a lot darker, almost black. We even saw bear paw tracks in the sand! We didn't end up seeing the bear, but it was very cool.  Just a couple of hours later, we were back with a hungry stomach, and a heart full of beautiful memories.