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The Lost Coast Expedition
Offered May through mid-June and mid-September through October
Strikingly beautiful and accessible only by foot, the Lost Coast of Northern California is the chain of rugged mountains thrusting right out of the Pacific. Extending 60 miles along the coast, this mountain chain is home of the elk herd, majestic redwoods, oaks and Douglas fir, multitude of wild flowers and abundant sea life. The narrow footpaths lead along ridges, crossing crystal clear mountain streams and descending to black sand coves, framed by rugged cliffs. The crash of the waves, ocean spray, cries of the sea birds and spectacular vistas make for an unforgettable nature experience. Students practice challenging mountain navigation, sea fishing and carving redwood spoons. At the end of the full day of backpacking we are rewarded by refreshing bath in the stream, running barefoot on the beach and, if we are lucky, close encounters with the elk.
We begin in Mendocino County at Frey Family Ranch and vineyard, famous for its biodynamic wine. Situated in the magical valley amongst the redwood groves and mineral springs Frey Ranch is home to multigenerational community of people working the land and striving to live together with meaning and joy. Students experience beautiful hand made dwellings, gardens, and farm animals. They participate in milking, cheese, butter and yogurt making, walking the goats and doing multitude of other farm and garden tasks, while preparing food products for their expedition. From here we embark on a scenic two-hour drive to the Lost Coast.
This amazing natural setting provides an opportunity for learning of all kinds. In addition to lessons learned from the land and the expeditionary life, our Lost Coast itinerary has set the back drop for studies of classic texts such Homer's Odyssey, and Wolfram von Eschenbach's Parzival.
Day 1 |
You will arrive at the Frey Vineyards and Farm at 12:00 PM where you will meet your Kroka Instructors. After lunch and a tour of this beautiful place we will turn our attention to preparing for our expedition. |
Day 2 |
Up early, we will pack up and drive about 2.5 hours north to our beginning location on the Lost Coast. We will hike along footpaths that wind between forest and mountain and sea. We will reach our first camp and cook dinner together over an open fire. |
Day 3 - 6 |
Expedition! Each day is filled with new adventures as we hike along the lost coast. We will swim, play, and explore the landscape around us as we make our way. In the afternoon we will find camp and busy ourselves to make our home for the night. At night we tell stories, sing songs, and reflect on the day’s events. |
Day 7 |
Coming to the end of our hiking expedition, we will stop to work on de-issuing our gear before driving the distance back to the Frey Ranch. There, at 4:00 PM we will have a closing circle, say our goodbyes, and you will drive back to school. |
