King Range Wilderness is a wilderness area located along California's "Lost Coast," characterized by its dramatic coastal-mountain interface where the King Range mountains rise directly from the Pacific Ocean. This rugged topography has preserved a unique landscape of expansive beaches, coastal bluffs, old-growth forests, and mountain meadows. The area offers diverse terrain suitable for several sports like hiking, mountain biking, and touring bicycle routes. Its wild character provides a true wilderness experience, distinguishing it as the longest undeveloped coastline in…
10
Routes
5
(7)
Average rating
78
People visited

40.5km
10:27
200m
210m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1
hikers
15.4km
04:42
440m
640m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.14km
01:20
250m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

24
hikers
24.1km
06:14
130m
130m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The King Range Wilderness is located along California's "Lost Coast," where mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean. It is recognized as the longest undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States. This area offers a unique wilderness experience with dramatic coastal-mountain interfaces.
King Range Wilderness offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and touring bicycle routes. There are more than 10 routes available across these sports. The diverse terrain includes expansive beaches, coastal bluffs, and old-growth forests.
The King Range Wilderness features over 80 miles of hiking trails, including the challenging Lost Coast Trail, a 25-mile (40 km) backpacking trek. Other routes lead through old-growth Douglas-fir forests and to ridgetop vistas. For more details, refer to the Hiking in King Range Wilderness guide.
Yes, King Range Wilderness offers routes suitable for mountain biking. The area's varied terrain provides diverse experiences for cyclists. There are 2 mountain biking routes available on komoot.
Yes, touring bicycle routes are available in King Range Wilderness. These routes allow visitors to experience the scenic beauty and varied terrain of the area. There is 1 touring bicycle route available on komoot.
Trails in King Range Wilderness range in difficulty, from challenging coastal treks like the Lost Coast Trail to routes through forests and up to mountain peaks. The rugged nature of the area means minimal facilities and signage, requiring preparedness from visitors. Routes on komoot have an average rating of 5.0 stars.
The wilderness is characterized by its dramatic coastal-mountain interface, with mountains reaching over 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) just miles from the ocean. It also features diverse habitats including rare coastal ancient forests, unique dune systems, and abundant wildlife. King Peak is the highest point at 4,088 feet (1,246 meters).
Overnight wilderness permits, especially for the Lost Coast Trail, require reservations. These permits can be booked through Recreation.gov. Visitors should check the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for current conditions and specific permit requirements.
There are more than 10 routes available in King Range Wilderness on komoot. These routes cover various sports including hiking, mountain biking, and touring bicycle. The community has rated these routes with an average of 5.0 out of 5 stars.
The diverse environment supports a rich array of wildlife. Visitors may encounter black-tailed deer, black bears, and Roosevelt elk. Birdwatchers can spot nearly 300 species of native and migratory birds, including bald eagles. Marine animals like harbor seals and California grey whales are also present.
Yes, there is a komoot guide available for King Range Wilderness. The Hiking in King Range Wilderness guide provides detailed information on specific activities and routes in the area.
The King Range Project Office / Visitor Center can be reached by phone at +1-707-986-5400. For official information, visitors can also refer to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the King Range National Conservation Area.

