I’ve been avoiding anything coastal for the past few weeks because it has been really hot and it seems like everyone and their brother has been heading to the beach. However, I just read about the California Coastal Trail and now I am feeling ambitious enough to brave the crowds for this great hike. One of the coolest things about the hike is that it is more like a project, since it runs the entire length of the state and would be impossible to do in a day or even a week. I like the fact that I can hike it in sections, eventually completing each section so that one day I can say, “I hiked the entire California Coastal Trail!” For now, though, I will be content with checking out the Los Angeles and Ventura County sections. Especially with all the wildfires raging up north.

I would love to take Big Old Dog, because I am totally inspired by this article about Hiking with Dogs on HikingForums.net, but I am not sure if he is actually allowed on the trail. I wouldn’t even mind if they required dog leashes for the trail (although I am sure Big Old Dog would be a little disappointed!) I guess I will research that a little more before heading out.

Here are some more great links about the California Coastal Trail:

GORP: Hiking California Coastal Trail

California Coastal Commission: The California Coast Trail

Hike on the California Coastal Trail in Southern Marin County

The California Coastal Trail