Lost Coast Trail

This is textbook March weather for the Lost Coast Trail. Three days of sunny skies with highs near 70°F and light offshore winds from the north mean calm seas and comfortable hiking. No chance of rain through Tuesday, so you can leave the rain gear accessible but not worry about getting soaked. The offshore wind pattern also means minimal marine layer — you'll have clear coastal views instead of the usual fog wall.

Stream crossings are about as easy as they get. All five regional gauges show flows well below median — the San Antonio River near Lockwood is running at just 41% of normal, and other coastal drainages are similarly low. The falling snowpack at higher elevations (Annie Springs down to 33 inches) combined with no recent precipitation means creek levels will stay manageable throughout your trip. Even the typically sketchy crossings north of Shelter Cove should be straightforward rock-hops.

No fire activity within 50 miles, so air quality will be excellent for the coastal views. The light north winds will keep any residual haze from Central Valley sources well inland. With nearly 12 hours of daylight, you have flexibility for longer hiking days or extended beach time — sunrise at 7:29 AM gives you an early start option, and sunset at 7:23 PM means you can push miles if needed.

Timing-wise, start early to maximize the cool morning hours before temperatures climb into the upper 60s by midday. The stable weather pattern continues through Tuesday night, so no need to rush camp setup or worry about weather windows. This is prime Lost Coast season — take advantage of it.