Switched from the John Muir Trail to the Lost Coast last minute

I was set on the JMT for months, but a buddy who just got back said the permits were a nightmare and the crowds were crazy. He convinced me to try the Lost Coast in Northern California instead, so I changed my flight and went for it last month. The 3 day hike was way more isolated, just me and the ocean the whole time. Saw way more wildlife too, like seals and a ton of birds. Honestly, it was the right call for a quieter trip. Anyone have other coastal route suggestions that aren't super packed?

3 comments

3 Comments

wendysanchez2mo ago

Way more isolated" sounds perfect, I used to want crowds.

jamie_carter872mo ago

Honestly, I've started to really miss the energy of a crowd.

lily702mo ago

I felt the same after my last concert in 2019. Try a small local show, maybe at The Blue Note cafe. The shared feeling is still there without the huge crush of people.