LOST COAST, CALIFORNIA :: I backpacked 19 miles along one of California’s most rugged and scenic stretches of coastline over two days. On the drive to the trailhead, my final text to Kristie was, “Just saw a cougar running down the road!” Unfortunately, my SPOT satellite messenger then failed to send any updates for the next 48 hours.
While I continued along the trail unaware of the problem, Kristie was back home contacting every local authority she could, with no way of knowing whether I was safe. I felt terrible for putting her through so much fear and uncertainty, and I was deeply sorry for all the worry I caused!
Other than that and the poison oak that attacked my arms, it was a wonderful solitary experience. I only briefly saw four other people during the entire backpack, and the scenery was stunning throughout.
