Big Flat on the Lost Coast Trail

Big Flat Beach is a backpacking stop along The Lost Coast Trail in Humboldt County. Big Flat and Miller Flat make up this wide sandy, rocky, driftwoody spot at the mouth of Big Flat Creek. There is a plane landing strip in the flats and private parcels near the creek. This area is located about 12 coastal miles north of the town of Shelter Cove. It’s possible to walk on the beach to here from Black Sands Beach in Shelter Cove, but you must avoid high tides. It’s also possible to hike down to this spot from the North Slide Peak or Lightning Trailhead which would be a shorter trip (9 and 10 miles respectively), but much harder due to the extreme elevation change. This remote region is called the King Range National Conservation Area. It is managed by the Bureau of Land Management so visit their website for trail maps if you want to head out here. Free overnight backcountry permits are available at the trailheads and BLM offices. They are required for anyone staying within the King Range. Bears are known to frequent Big Flat and Miller Flat so prepare accordingly and note that bear canisters are required if camping.

Address

Smith Etter Rd
Honeydew, CA 95545

Park Name

King Range National Conservation Area

Other Names

Miller Flat

Owner

BLM

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on the beach

Fees

Free backcountry permits issued at trailheads

Activities

Backpacking, Camping, Beachcombing

Amenities

Wilderness Campsites, Creek, Driftwood, Trails

Links

Aerial View of Big Flat on Lost Coast
Tide Charts
Surfing Info & Web Cams
Water Temps
Topo Map of Big Flat / Miller Flat