Coast Trail to Wildcat Camp Hike

The Coast Trail to Wildcat Camp Hike is an unbelievably exciting and picturesque adventure that will allow you to discover the natural beauty and variety of California’s coastal landscape. Explore several picture-perfect lakes, keep an eye out for migrating gray whales, wander along the beach often abundant with lounging elephant seals, and more! As this trek is located on the coast, it often sees extreme weather, so expect fog and wind! Additionally, the headlands are notoriously delicate and can easily crumble under your feet, so it is important to remain on the marked path at all times!

Setting out from the Palomarin Trailhead, the Coast Trail to Wildcat Camp Trail follows the Coast Trail along the edge of the shoreline cliffs—exposing mind-blowing maritime views. Follow this path west along the coast before it diverts inland, climbing through the woodlands. Wandering past Bass Lake, Pelican Lake, and Crystal Lake, the path will cross over Alamere Creek. Staying on the Coast Trail, you will pass Wildcat Lake and Wildcat Camp. If time permits, head down to the beach to explore.

When you are ready to head back, retrace your footing along the Coast Trail until you reach an intersection with the Ocean Lake Loop Trail. Here, track the Ocean Lake Loop Trail past Ocean Lake before reconnecting with the Coast Trail. Follow this path back all the way to the trailhead.