Caring for the King Crest Trail

Located on the coast of Northern California, the King Range National Conservation Area is the meeting place of land and sea. Covering 68,000 acres, the King Range National Conservation Area attracted all types of people - from surfers and anglers to mountain bikers and hikers. Located just three miles from the ocean, its tallest peak rises 4,088 feet above sea level. With over 85 miles of wilderness hiking trails and 25 miles of mountain bike trails, there is no lack of work for our volunteers to do to help maintain trails in this unique part of Northern California.

In April 2026, volunteers focused on an 11-mile portion of the King Crest Trail - one of the first National Recreation Trails in the United States. Working with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), they helped remove overgrown brush and repair trail tread while taking in magnificent views of California’s Lost Coast, the Mattole and Eel River Valleys, and surrounding mountains. Due to the fast growth of this coastal landscape the trails experience fast regrowth and require consistent maintenance to provide opportunities for day-hikers, backpackers, and equestrian users. Clearing two miles of trail to BLM standards was hard work, but built camaraderie between the volunteers.   

During this trip, nine volunteers spent the week at a basecamp in the shadows of King Peak and traveling to their worksite along the ridgeline 1,000 feet above. From experienced backpackers to a first time joiner, the crew not only learned about the local flora and fauna but also each other to create a life-changing experience. Ranger Kacie Hallahan proved to be a great leader on this trip, providing not only information on the surrounding nature but also providing examples of stewardship and conservation.

After spending a few days clearing trail to be 6ft wide and 10ft tall (meeting BLM’s standard), the group was rewarded with a trek down the Lost Coast Trail to enjoy whale watching and tide pooling. Through the hard work and variable weather, the group's energy never seemed to fade and their enthusiasm was contagious. Meaningful moments were had from sunset to sunrise. From working hard on the trails and wrestling thorny brush to standing and laughing around a campfire in the rain.