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Best backpacking hikes in Humboldt County
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Best backpacking hikes in Humboldt County

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Humboldt County.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Spanish Ridge Trail and Lost Coast Loop Trail

Humboldt County, California · star 4.3 (6) · 18.6 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

2

Easy

Lost Coast Trail Out and Back

Humboldt County, California · star 4.7 (3) · 29.0 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

3

Medium

Kinsey Ridge - Lost Coast - Rattlesnake Ridge - King Crest Loop Trail

Humboldt County, California · star 4.3 (3) · 30.7 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

4

Medium

Windy Point and Titus Peak via Lost Coast Trail and Spanish Ridge Trail

Humboldt County, California · star 4.5 (2) · 38.2 km · Est. 1 day 4 hrs

5

Medium

Nature Trail, Miner's Ridge Trail and James Irvine Trail Loop

Humboldt County, California · star 4.3 (4) · 18.3 km · Est. 4 hrs 23 min

6

Difficult

King Crest, King Peak and Lost Coast Loop Trail

Humboldt County, California · star 4.5 (4) · 34.4 km · Est. 1 day 4 hrs

7

Medium

King Peak via King Crest Trail and Lost Coast Trail

Humboldt County, California · star N/A (0) · 66.0 km · Est. 3 day

8

Medium

Elm Creek and McArthur Creek Walk

Humboldt County, California · star 4.5 (6) · 21.0 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

9

Difficult

High Tip via Lost Coast Trail

Humboldt County, California · star N/A (0) · 43.8 km · Est. 2 day

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for backpacking hikes in Humboldt County

Carroll MacGyver avatar

Spanish Ridge Trail and Lost Coast Loop Trail

ThicketAlpinist29 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Beverlee Rempel avatar

Lost Coast Trail Out and Back

SequoiaHavenranger86 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Russel Upton DDS avatar

Kinsey Ridge - Lost Coast - Rattlesnake Ridge - King Crest Loop Trail

CanyonStreamfinder66 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Gina Schaden I avatar

Windy Point and Titus Peak via Lost Coast Trail and Spanish Ridge Trail

ShadedAdventureguide60 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Ignacia Lesch avatar

Nature Trail, Miner's Ridge Trail and James Irvine Trail Loop

PeakviewPinestracker53 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Humboldt County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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