Lost Valley

Lost Valley is a hard hike in the Monterey Ranger District of Los Padres National Forest in California, managed by the Forest Service. The trail is about 22 miles long, with a one-way elevation gain of 2,894 feet, and it is an out-and-back route that starts and ends at Escondido campground, which sits just 0.1 mile away. The trail is on natural surface and allows horses, but bikes are not permitted. That makes it a good fit for riders on horseback, and the route's length and climb mean it is a serious commitment rather than a short outing. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station show May highs around 80°F and October highs around 82°F, while July and August average about 96°F. That station sits roughly 1,600 feet lower than the trail's high point, so temperatures on the route run cooler. Nearby options include the Arroyo Seco Trail and Rodeo Flat, both about 2 miles away, and Memorial Park campground, also about 2 miles off. Paddlers can find the Arroyo Seco canoeing spot about 4.7 miles away.