California Coastal Trail Flint Ridge

Flint Ridge Section of the California Coastal Trail is a long-distance hiking route in Redwood National and State Parks near Klamath, California, routed along the Flint Ridge Trail between Douglas Bridge access and the Coastal Drive connection area.

Expect a major climb to the ridge: the route is described as an 8.8-mile out-and-back, with elevation gain commonly cited around 1,370–1,900 feet depending on the starting point within the section.

The hiking corridor tracks through old-growth redwood uplands and transitions into Sitka spruce and alder as you get closer to the coastal influence near the mouth of the Klamath River.

Route character is tied to creeks, ponds, and ridge-top forest: the trail is described descending through dense alder forest to cross Richardson Creek, then continuing upstream to Marshall Pond before switching and climbing back toward Flint Ridge.

As you gain the ridge (around the mid-route), redwoods dominate again and you work through repeated ups/downs before the final descent back toward the coast-side end of the trail, reconnecting with Coastal Drive.

Logistics and rules matter here: dogs are not permitted on this section of the Coastal Trail; at Flint Ridge Camp there is walk-in camping with a stated 5-day camping limit and facilities described as a composting toilet but no water.

Access is described from Highway 101 via Klamath Beach Road to Douglas Bridge Parking Area (Alder Camp Road), and there is also a second access option via Coastal Drive / South Klamath Overlook for people not starting at Douglas Bridge.

More information: California Coastal Trail Flint Ridge Section, Flint Ridge Trail - Journey Return, Del Norte Section 9 - California Coastal Trail