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Lost Coast California BDR-X
The Lost Coast BDR-X is a 500-mile figure-eight loop that ventures deep into the untamed heart of Northern California’s last stretch of
undeveloped coastline. Beginning in Fort Bragg, the route follows hidden dirt tracks along the Pacific, winds through ancient redwood forests, and climbs into the King Range and Sinkyone Wilderness, where forest, ridge, river, and sea converge in dramatic, wild beauty.
Riders will tackle endless switchbacks on both dirt and pavement, each turn revealing new views of rugged coastline, misty ridges, and dense forests. The ride blends world-class pavement, remote forest roads, and historic coastal towns, where adventure meets the area’s rich history and laid-back charm.
From fog-draped ridges to secluded beaches, the Lost Coast BDR-X offers a rare kind of ride, defined by open space, natural beauty, and a sense of true escape. Out here, the ocean, forest, and sky move together, reminding you what it feels like to be far from the crowds.
The best season for this route is from about late May through October with seasonal road closures prohibiting the full loop ride during the wetter months.
This route was made possible through the generous support of Aprilia, All Terra by Alpinestars, SW-Motech, and Continental Tires.
WATCH THE FILM
PURCHASE THE MAP
Lost Coast BDR-X Map: First Edition, dated: November 2025
SECTION-BY-SECTION
FORT BRAGG
TO SHELTER COVE SHELTER COVE
TO RIO DELL RIO DELL
TO BLUE LAKEBLUE LAKE
TO FERNDALEFERNDALE
TO FORT BRAGG
TO SHELTER COVE SHELTER COVE
TO RIO DELL RIO DELL
TO BLUE LAKEBLUE LAKE
TO FERNDALEFERNDALE
TO FORT BRAGG
FORT BRAGG TO SHELTER COVE – 63 miles
Fort Bragg makes the perfect start to your adventure with ample lodging and food options. Before you leave town, stop at Glass Beach for a short walk to this iconic spot where you can search for tumbled glass pieces washed upon the shore. As you head north along Highway 1 you’ll instantly get a sense for the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean that lay ahead as you meander along the breathtaking California coast.
Usal Road is the first taste of dirt as you ride along a primitive forested two-track with a few great views of the coast. While generally mild, this road can be particularly challenging at times, especially after a storm and is considered impassable when wet. Stop by Usal Beach, which features a campground, a wide sandy shoreline, and often a herd of elk. Be sure to park where the beach road is firm and not sandy. Take a side trip to the Needle Rock Visitor Center and keep an eye out for herds of elk in this wildlife preserve before the last stretch of primo riding into the quaint town of Shelter Cove.
Note: The northern section of the Usal Road is typically closed for the winter and usually opens for the season right before Memorial Day weekend, depending on weather conditions from the previous winter. Check the County of Medocino’s Department of Transportation website for road closures and delays.
LODGING
Harbor Lite Lodge
- Address: 120 N Harbor Dr, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
- Phone: (707) 964-0221
- Visit Website »
North Cliff Hotel
- Address: 1005 S Main St, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
- Phone: (707) 962-2500
- Visit Website »
Noyo Harbor Inn
- Address: Main Building, 500 Casa Del Noyo, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
- Phone: (707) 961-8000
- Visit Website »
Black Sands Inn
- Address: 59 Surf Point, Whitethorn, CA 95589
- Phone: (619) 658-0104
- Visit Website »
Shelter Cove Oceanfront Inn
- Address: 26 Seal Dr, Whitethorn, CA 95589
- Phone: (707) 986-7002
- Visit Website »
Inn of the Lost Coast
- Address: 205 Wave Dr, Whitethorn, CA 95589
- Phone: (707) 986-7521
- Visit Website »
Shelter Cove Campground and RV Park
Full campground and RV park with hot showers, full store to restock supplies, and a grill for food.
- Address: 492 Machi Road Shelter Cove, CA
- Phone: (707)-842-0918
- Visit Website »
FOOD
Noyo River Grill
- Address: 1011 S Main St, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
- Phone: (707) 962-9050
Eggheads Restaurant
- Address: 326 N Main St, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
- Visit Website »
FUEL
Fort Bragg, CA
Westport, CA
Shelter Cove, CA
DISCOVERY POINTS
Glass Beach
A unique beach near Fort Bragg known for its colorful sea glass created from years of discarded glass smoothed by waves.
Usal Beach
A remote, scenic beach on the Lost Coast with rugged coastline and access to coastal hiking and camping.
Needle Rock Visitor Center
A visitor center near the Lost Coast where travelers can rest, get information, and enjoy views of rugged coastal rocks and sea stacks.
Seal Rock
A dramatic coastal rock formation and viewpoint along the Lost Coast Highway, popular for scenic ocean views and photography.
Black Sands Beach
A striking black sand beach on California’s Lost Coast known for its dramatic scenery, tide pools, and wilderness access.
Cape Mendocino Lighthouse
Historic lighthouse located near Cape Mendocino marking one of California’s westernmost points, offering coastal views and maritime history.
Shelter Cove Beach
A beach in Shelter Cove featuring gentle shoreline, sandy coves, and access to tide pools and coastal walks.
SHELTER COVE TO RIO DELL – 74 MILES
Ride a loop around lovely Shelter Cove and visit the iconic black sand beaches, Seal Rock and the Mendocino Lighthouse. Kings Peak Road features tight dirt through the forest, with an optional advanced section on Saddle Mountain featuring steep, narrow switchbacks rewarded with fantastic views of the coast.
Take a side trip to the Kinsey Ridge viewpoint and a rest at the quaint Honeydew Store. The optional extension to Windy Point Knoll provides a stunning ride on a primitive 4wd road, dropping down to an impressive grassy knoll right along the raging Pacific. While not technical, this road is steep and would be nearly impossible when wet.
After a stop in Petrolia, Mattole Road features some of the best views of the ocean yet along blissful pavement. Enjoy the final stretch of scenic dirt on Bear River Ridge before descending into Rio Dell, the crossing point of this figure-8 loop.
LODGING
Scotia Lodge
- Address: 100 Main St #361, Scotia, CA 95565
- Phone: (707) 298-7139
- Visit Website »
Humboldt Gables Motel
- Address: 40 W Davis St, Rio Dell, CA 95562
- Phone: (707) 764-5609
- Visit Website »
The Redwood Riverwalk
- Address: 1859 Alamar Way, Fortuna, CA 95540
- Phone: (707) 725-5500
- Visit Website »
FOOD
The Patron Kitchen
- Address: 70 B Wildwood Ave, Rio Dell, CA 95562
- Phone: (707) 499-2494
The Sandwich Shop
- Address: 770 Wildwood Ave, Rio Dell, CA 95562
- Phone: (707) 362-9546
FUEL
Honeydew, CA
Petrolia, CA
Rio Dell, CA
Scotia, CA
DISCOVERY POINTS
Kinsey Ridge
A scenic coastal ridge along the Lost Coast route offering panoramic views of rugged terrain and the Pacific Ocean.
Mattole River Beach
A sandy riverside beach where the Mattole River meets the ocean, popular for peaceful scenery and beach access.
Windy Point Knoll
An elevated viewpoint along the Lost Coast known for strong ocean breezes and expansive views of sea and shore.
Mattole Road
A winding scenic road through Humboldt County connecting coastal and inland areas, known for redwood forests and rural landscapes.
Steamboat Rock
A notable rock formation along the Mattole River or Lost Coast area—often a recognizable landmark for travelers on the route.
Bear River Ridge
A ridge area near Bear River on the Lost Coast, featured for its forested slopes and overlook points along the scenic backroad.
RIO DELL TO BLUE LAKE – 87 MILES
Rolling farmland makes way for tight forested roads as you leave Rio Dell. Redwood House Rd ascends deeper into the woods toward the furthest inland portion of the route yet. Showers Pass is a flowy dirt road high in the hills, with switchbacks galore and sweeping views through this emblematic grassland. Mountain View Road descends into more woods and meanders back to Kneeland Road and the ridge crest. The last stretch on Maple Creek brings even more twists and turns, full of panoramic views as you descend into Blue Lake. Here, the casino offers lodging, food, and fuel. Reservations in advance are recommended.
LODGING
Blue Lake Casino Hotel
Large hotel with a casino and multiple restaurants, and fuel on site.
- Address: 777 Casino Way, Blue Lake, CA 95525
- Phone: (707) 683-8260
- Visit Website »
Arcata, CA
FOOD
Blue Lake Casino Hotel
Large hotel with a casino and multiple restaurants, and fuel on site.
- Address: 777 Casino Way, Blue Lake, CA 95525
- Phone: (707) 683-8260
- Visit Website »
Arcata, CA
FUEL
Blue Lake Casino Hotel
Large hotel with a casino and multiple restaurants, and fuel on site.
- Address: 777 Casino Way, Blue Lake, CA 95525
- Phone: (707) 683-8260
- Visit Website »
Arcata, CA
DISCOVERY POINTS
Table Bluff Beach
A broad sandy beach at the base of Table Bluff near Humboldt Bay, known for ocean views, birdwatching, and coastal access.
Showers Pass
A scenic mountain pass along the Lost Coast route offering forested landscapes and access between coastal and inland valleys.
Stone Lagoon Beach
A coastal lagoon beach within the Humboldt Lagoons State Park area, known for calm waters, birdlife, and scenic shoreline.
Sue-meg State Park
A state park on California’s Lost Coast featuring rugged coastline, beaches, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Tepona Point
A coastal promontory along the Lost Coast with dramatic ocean views and natural coastal features.
BLUE LAKE TO FERNDALE – 143 MILES
Section 4 starts off with a bang as you ascend Bald Mountain, one of the highlight portions of this route, full of endless vistas along this vast ridge. Take a rest at “the couch” before crossing Highway 299 to Bair Ridge. This road is primitive, tight, forested and absolutely incredible as you cross through the Hoopa Reservation. There is no camping allowed here, so Ride Respectfully on this land as you pass through. The climb up Bald Hills will put your switchbacking abilities to the test before entering a less-visited section of Redwoods National Park. Pause at Redwood Creek Overlook then admire these ancient giants as you descend to Highway 101.
The second half of this section meanders on and off the highway, with great beach access, camping, and towns along the way including Trinidad. Make a detour to Table Bluff Beach for views of Humboldt Bay before crossing the Fernbridge and reaching historic Ferndale
LODGING
Victorian Inn
- Address: 400 Ocean Ave, Ferndale, CA 95536
- Phone: (707) 786-4949
- Visit Website »
Redwood Suites
- Address: 332 Ocean Ave, Ferndale, CA 95536
- Phone: (707) 786-5000
- Visit Website »
Ivanhoe Hotel
- Address: 315 Main St, Ferndale, CA 95536
- Phone: (707) 786-3977
- Visit Website »
Ye Olde Danish Inn
- Address: 132 Ocean Ave, Ferndale, CA 95536
- Phone: (707) 786-4743
- Visit Website »
FOOD
Trinidad, CA
McKinleyville, CA
Eureka, CA
Ferndale, CA
FUEL
Orick, CA
Trinidad, CA
McKinleyville, CA
Eureka, CA
Ferndale, CA
DISCOVERY POINTS
Bald Mtn Road
A rugged backcountry road in the Lost Coast region offering ridge-top views, forested stretches, and access to remote terrain.
Redwood National Park
A protected area home to the world’s tallest trees, featuring ancient redwood forests, scenic drives, coastal trails, and abundant wildlife.
Table Bluff Beach
A wide sandy beach near Humboldt Bay known for ocean views, birdwatching, and quiet coastal access.
Historic Ferndale
A Victorian-era town famed for its well-preserved architecture, charming Main Street, local shops, and small-town coastal character.
FERNDALE TO FORT BRAGG – 152 MILES
As you pass through the “X” of this route in Rio Dell/Scotia, fuel up before Shively Road, a narrow paved road through the woods. Be aware, the bridge over Eel River is seasonally closed between late October and mid-June each year.
After Shively you’ll meander through the giant redwoods along the Avenue of the Giants before beginning Dyerville Loop Road. This next stretch features a collection of twisty paved and dirt roads. Be sure to stop and visit the Richardson Creative Exhibit, an outdoor art display on private property open to respectful visitors. Please don’t go past the Bigfoot sculpture—beyond it is the artist’s private home.
The route carries on, twisting and turning with impressive views as you reach the New Harris General Store. With food, drinks, gas, and supplies, this is a place you don’t want to miss. In a few more miles you can grab a snack at the honor-system farm stand before reaching Highway 101. Be sure to fuel up as you pass through Laytonville.
Fort Bragg–Sherwood Road provides a spectacular finish to this route, beginning with flowy gravel before narrowing into a rugged, overgrown stretch where corners disappear into the brush. Ride Right—oncoming traffic is possible. Though not especially technical, the road is seasonally closed, impassable when wet, and may have ruts or rocks depending on maintenance.
Note: The Fort Bragg-Sherwood Road is typically closed to traffic from November to May due to wet conditions that make the unpaved sections muddy and impassable. Check the County of Medocino’s Department of Transportation website for road closures and delays.
LODGING
Harbor Lite Lodge
- Address: 120 N Harbor Dr, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
- Phone: (707) 964-0221
- Visit Website »
North Cliff Hotel
- Address: 1005 S Main St, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
- Phone: (707) 962-2500
- Visit Website »
Noyo Harbor Inn
- Address: Main Building, 500 Casa Del Noyo, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
- Phone: (707) 961-8000
- Visit Website »
FOOD
New Harris General Store
Laytonville, CA
Fort Bragg, CA
FUEL
New Harris General Store
Laytonville, CA
Fort Bragg, CA
DISCOVERY POINTS
Immortal Tree
A famous redwood in Humboldt County that has survived fire, logging attempts, floods, and lightning, standing as a symbol of the forest’s resilience.
Eternal Tree House
A small gift shop built inside the hollowed base of a massive redwood tree, offering a quirky tourist stop along the Avenue of the Giants.
Richardson Creative Exhibit
An art and history display located near Richardson Grove, showcasing local culture, redwood-themed works, and regional creativity.
Honor Farms
A local Humboldt County farm known for agricultural production and its connection to the region’s rural community and history.
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE
LOST COAST PACKING LIST
This packing list serves as an example and is not intended to be a complete list for your backcountry riding needs. Feel free to customize this list to work for you.
Riding
- Helmet
- Boots
- Goggles
- Gloves (2 sets)
- Protective gear (pressure suit, Leatt brace, knee braces)
- Jacket
- Pants
- Balaclava or neck gaitor
- Water bladder or bottle
- Hydration pack
- Ear plugs
Gadgets
Clothing
Personal
Motorcycle
Camping Gear
Books & Maps
Tools & Misc
Food
LOST COAST MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIPS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Below are answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about the Lost Coast BDR-X.
What is the Lost Coast BDR-X?
The Lost Coast BDR-X is a 518-mile loop through the most stunning landscapes of the Northern California coast. Starting in Fort Bragg, CA, this diverse route features lesser-known dirt roads along the Pacific Coast, through dense forests, expansive open ridges, and world-class pavement. Experience coastal overlooks, historic towns, ancient redwood forests, and unforgettable riding as you traverse the rugged and remote Lost Coast.
What time of year can I ride the Lost Coast BDR-X?
Mid-June through mid-October is the best time to enjoy this route with generally mild conditions, but along the coast the weather can change rapidly. Always check weather forecasts and local conditions before heading out.
How difficult is the route?
This route is a moderate-level route appropriate for lower-intermediate riders. While much of the route is paved and fairly predictable gravel, many portions of the route feature tight switchbacks, dense forest, and primitive roads that can be prone to ruts, washouts, and mud.
What weather concerns should I have?
We recommend riders plan to experience this route in the late spring, summer and early fall seasons. This route traverses higher-elevation hilltops as well as right along the Pacific Ocean coast, and coastal weather can change rapidly. Riders should be prepared with waterproof riding gear and layers for temperature changes. Summertime can get quite hot and dry with rain and coastal fog still possible. This route is generally off-limits in the winter due to cold temperatures and many seasonal road closures.
Can the Route be done in either direction?
Yes. This route was designed to be ridden in a figure-8 direction starting north from Fort Bragg, however you can start or end at any point on this route. Always be mindful of oncoming traffic and Ride Right.
How long does it take to run the Lost Coast BDR-X?
The time it takes to ride a BDR can vary based on many factors including your fuel range, preparedness, riding skill, stamina, breakdowns, weather, and many other factors. This route is divided into five sections, which does not necessarily mean the number of days or how you should break up your trip. On average this route will take riders 4-5 days to complete.
Do I need any permits or passes?
Street legal motorcycles with a license plate can ride this route. No other permits or passes are required.
Can I ride on any beaches?
A unique feature of this route, motorized vehicle beach access is legal on some beaches along the route, including the Usal Beach and the Shelter Cove Beach. Please familiarize yourself with the rules at each beach and ride responsibly to preserve access.
Usal Beach – part of Sinkyone Wilderness State Park
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=429
Shelter Cove Beach
Are there any advanced sections on the Lost Coast BDR-X?
There is one optional harder section that crosses over Saddle Mountain. This track is 7 miles long and features a steady switchback climb to the top, levels out, then switchbacks descending with some ruts and rocks. While not super advanced, this road is subject to deterioration after storms and is considered impassable when wet.
Can I camp on this route, and where?
There is no dispersed camping on this route as it features no national forest lands, and the properties adjacent to the roads are mostly private. Camping is typically allowed only in established campgrounds, such as state parks, of which there are many
Can I build a campfire?
Always check with local ranger stations to determine if campfires are allowed before you build one. In most cases, campfires are only allowed in established fire rings. If you are dispersed camping, we don’t suggest building fires. Instead, bring a camp stove for cooking and boiling water to avoid the risk of wildfires. Be sure to fully extinguish fires so they are DEAD-OUT. Use water to ensure a fire is fully extinguished, and the ground is left cool and wet.
How far between gas stops?
The longest distance between available gas on the Lost Coast BDR-X is the entire span of Section 3 from Rio Dell to Blue Lake at approximately 88 miles. Even if your bike’s range is well beyond the gas stop distances, we recommend always topping off your gas and carrying extra fuel.
What about hotel/motel accommodations along the route?
There are numerous lodging opportunities along the length of the route, some with historic origins. Other towns adjacent to the route may have additional lodging. We recommend riders book their stays in advance if possible.
What navigation resources do I need to ride the Lost Coast BDR-X?
This route cannot be ridden without the use of GPS tracks. Be prepared and bring the official BDR Map AND your navigation device with the latest GPS tracks loaded. Free GPS tracks are available for download on this site. The route can also be navigated using a smartphone GPS navigation app like Gaia, OnX, Rever, and others. The Lost Coast BDR-X expedition documentary film is a great source of information about the route and is available for free on YouTube.com/ridebdr.
What GPS should I use?
Any modern GPS unit capable of handling multiple tracks with a minimum of 1500 points each is suitable. Garmin models that work best for this application are: Zumo XT, XT2, Zumo 590/595/395/396, Montana, and 276Cx. Many other GPS units are compatible with the GPX file format. Check the owner’s manual of your device for more information. You can also import the tracks into a GPS navigation app, like OnX Offroad or Gaia GPS, but we recommend you upgrade to the premium version of the app so you can download and navigate via offline maps.
Is there cell phone service on this route?
Cell phone service is generally available on this route along the main highways and in the towns, however, some areas will have no service, and a satellite communicator, sat phone, or tracking device is highly recommended for emergency situations.
What is the ideal bike to use?
Any bike that has a license plate, can run knobby DOT tires, has adequate suspension, can carry the gear you will need, and has enough fuel range. Most adventure or dual-sport motorcycles will be suitable for the trip.
What tires should I use for the Lost Coast BDR-X?
DOT-approved knobby tires are strongly recommended. Riding this route without at least a 50/50 tire (50% dirt, 50% road) would not be advisable.
Can you do the route two-up?
Segments of this route can be ridden two-up for those experienced in riding rugged, unpaved roads with a passenger and luggage.
Can I explore off the route in any areas?
Please don’t go off the route anywhere where it’s gated or signed for seasonal or permanent closures, and don’t ever venture onto private property.
What if I see a Private Land sign?
This route may include a few instances where the track follows an easement road through private land. In many, but not all cases, the land owners have installed “private land” signs, and it is important that riders acknowledge these signs and stay on the designated track. If you are unsure of the land ownership adjacent to the roads, it’s best to stay on the track to avoid trespassing. In all cases, riders should never ride off the road, which damages vegetation. Please remember that riding off the designated roads can jeopardize our right to use these roads for recreation.
Are there any gates on the route?
This route may have seasonal gates in place at any time, but especially in the early riding season and late fall. There may be temporary closures when crews are repairing washouts, downed trees, and other road hazards. If roads are closed, please do not ride around the signs, as that can put you and work crews in danger and can get you a hefty fine. Check the BDR website for route updates before you go.
I’m following your tracks and see a Road Closed sign. Does it mean I cannot pass through?
Please abide by posted road closure signs. Ignoring these signs is a sure way of getting a road closed for good. That said, sometimes locals will post unofficial “road closed” or “dead end” signs on public roads for their own personal reasons. Additionally, land managers may not have removed a “closed” sign from a seasonal road – even though the sign right next to it clearly displays the open/closed dates. In these cases, use your best judgment – if in doubt, navigate around the closed road and report it to BDR. And please remember never to engage in arguments with local landowners.
Can I fish on the Lost Coast BDR-X?
Each state has its own recreational fishing requirements and restrictions. Check local websites for each state for restrictions and permitting info if you intend to fish.
How do I get information on current road conditions?
We do our best to post the most up-to-date information about the route on the website. We depend on the BDR community to inform us about route and road conditions, so if you encounter any road closures or severe conditions that are worth reporting, please contact us with the information.
There is also a dedicated Facebook group page. We recommend that you join the group prior to your trip to read trip reports and comments from other riders about their experience on the route. Search for: Lost Coast BDR-X Backcountry Discovery Route.
NOTE: The northern section of the Usal Road and all of Fort Bragg-Sherwood Road are both typically closed for the winter and usually open for the season right before Memorial Day weekend, depending on weather conditions from the previous winter. Check the County of Mendocino’s Department of Transportation website for road closures and delays HERE
What about the Wild/Domestic Animals?
Northern California is a habitat for many animals, such as deer and smaller animals like squirrels and snakes — all of which make their way to the road at some point. Be alert everywhere you go as animals can and will cross your path along the route – especially in the morning and at dusk. Deer are a major concern throughout this route, and you can expect to see many of them, so ride with caution.
Slow down as soon as you see animals, as they like to cross in front of bikes instead of running away from them. Appropriate food practices while camping are an absolute must for your safety and the animal’s safety.
Yield to all animals, whether wild, domestic, or livestock, by slowing down or stopping. Many locals in rural areas keep their dogs off-leash on their property, and dogs love to chase motorcycles – be cautious and considerate.
Can I drive a 4x4 on this route?
All of the roads used on the Lost Coast BDR-X are public and open to licensed vehicles. If you do decide to drive this route, you will need a reliable 4×4 with high clearance. Always stay to the right and go slowly around blind corners to avoid head-on accidents with others using the roads. We recommend traveling in the direction of the GPX tracks as this is intended to minimize head-on traffic.
What do you mean by Riding Respectfully?
It is absolutely essential that you Ride Respectfully and follow the tips outlined in our Ride Respectfully campaign. Remember, it’s up to all of you to preserve our access – we can easily lose access to many of these roads if we don’t practice proper etiquette. Always represent BDR and the ADV community in the best light.
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