Last Updated April 3, 2024
The Usal Hopper: The Lost Coast, chosen as one of our best gravel cycling events in California and the Northwest, the Lost Coast off-road biking event is an extremely beautiful and unique experience organized by Hopper Adventures. Nestled between the vast Pacific Ocean and the meandering Eel River, 25 miles north of Fort Bragg, lies the remote Usal Beach and the Lost Coast of Mendocino County, Northern California. This October 7th, the 5th annual Lost Coast Hopper promises a one-of-a-kind cycling experience, granting riders access to the roads of Usal Redwoods and the Redwood Forest Foundation Inc. (RFFI) lands. These paths, closely guarded in their pristine nature, open their gates for cyclists only once a year, making it a true once-in-a-lifetime journey. Hopper Adventures has partnered with local organizations and park services, allowing this cycling event in such a remote area to showcase its restoration services and pure beauty that hadn’t been possible before. However, there is a ~300 rider limit due to the exclusivity of the course.
Event & Course Info
There are three lengths of rides to choose from at the Usal Hopper: The Lost Coast. The most challenging course is the Mero-Mero, covering a distance of 65 miles and ascending 8800 feet, this route incorporates a figure-eight pattern, offering riders 7.5 miles of scenic Hwy 1 pavé on each loop. The El Mediano route spans 46 miles with a gain of 6500 feet, and includes a 7.5-mile stretch on Hwy 1 pavé. The El Chiquito is a 32-mile off-road loop with over 4,000 feet of climbing. The shortest of the three, this 35-mile route has an elevation of 5100 feet and treats riders to a 4-mile stretch on Hwy 1 pavé. The El Mediano and the Mero-Mero will be timed, making them more competitive. At the same time, the Chiquito is non-timed, making it more relaxing and fun for more levels of riders or people just wanting to enjoy the beauty.
Rest stops are placed at Mile 14.5 and Mile 35.5 for those on the Mediano route. Those braving the Mero-Mero will find an additional rest stop at Mile 51. Importantly, riders must fill their bottles at these stops; no hand-ups are permitted.
With mixed surfaces, people elect to use a range of bike quivers for the Usal Hopper: The Lost Coast, with a split between gravel and mountain bikes. The roads are a mix of hard-packed dirt, loose gravel, pavement, and rutted county first roads. Whether it’s a gravel bike fitted with 650b and 47c tires or a hardtail mountain bike, each setup offers its advantages. Regardless of your decision, one essential recommendation stands out – make sure you have low climbing gears. The Lost Coast isn’t named, so without reason, its demanding steep paths will test every bit of your mettle.
Both the Mero-Mero and El Mediano routes feature Open/Pro M/F and age group categories, but only the top three in each category of the Mero-Mero route will ascend the podium. After Saturday’s race, there will be lunch, a podium ceremony, and presentations by RFFI/USAL staff and local historians. As night falls, a campfire gathering beckons, providing a chance to unwind with a cold beer. Sunday morning offers an optional hike in the Usal Creek watershed with RFFI foresters, deepening your connection to the area’s conservation efforts.
Included in the registration is a yearly RFFI membership, a redwood tree planted in your name, and camping on both Friday and Saturday.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Due to the remote nature of the event location, it’s recommended to camp at the event venue. Usal Beach, part of the State Park, offers free primitive camping near the beach, in the meadow south of Usal Creek, and along the road to the beach within the trees. While there’s no charge for camping and no water available, there are outhouses and additional portable toilets for convenience. Registered riders will receive a detailed map indicating camping areas and are encouraged to bring their families along.
However, the Lost Coast region is stunningly beautiful and worth making a long weekend out of the Usal Hopper: The Lost Coast event. There are many seaside lodging options such as the Inn of the Lost Coast and Black Sand Inn. For those looking for a more home-like experience, there are many vacation rentals available as well such as oceanview condos to luxury holistic cabins.
Whitethorn, CA, is a small community in Humboldt County, and while it may not be a culinary hotspot, it offers a taste of Northern California’s regional specialties and is influenced by its coastal and forested surroundings. Visitors can expect a modest selection of eateries, with local ingredients reflecting the area’s rich natural bounty at restaurants like Mi Mochima and Delgada.
Whitethorn, nestled in the rugged beauty of Humboldt County’s Lost Coast, is a haven for those seeking serenity combined with outdoor adventure. Early October, with its crisp air and transitioning foliage, is an idyllic time to explore this hidden gem of Northern California. The Lost Coast Trail offers some of California’s best coastal backpacking. Stretching for about 25 miles along the coast, this trail provides unparalleled views of untouched shorelines, tidal zones, and hidden beaches. In early October, the cooler weather makes for a comfortable trek, with fewer crowds to share the trail with. Depending on your pace and how much you want to explore, this can be a 2 to 3-day trip. Start from Mattole Beach in the north and hike south to Black Sands Beach near Shelter Cove.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, the King Range National Conservation Area offers a rugged terrain that’s both challenging and rewarding. The intertwining trails wind through dense forests, open meadows, and provide occasional coastal viewpoints. One popular route is the Paradise Royale Loop Trail, a 14-mile trail designed specifically for mountain bikers. With its berms, jumps, and switchbacks, it’s a thrilling ride.
Finally, the coastline near Whitethorn is a mosaic of sea caves, kelp forests, and secluded coves – a paradise for sea kayaking. Paddle along the coastline, and you’re likely to spot a plethora of marine life, from otters to sea birds and, if you’re lucky, a passing pod of whales. Start your journey from Shelter Cove, a key gateway to the Lost Coast. If you’re not an experienced kayaker, consider joining a guided tour. Early October is prime time for birdwatching, with many species migrating along the coast.
Related Events
USAL Hopper: The Lost Coast is produced by Hopper Adventures, known as the US’s longest-running gravel/mixed-terrain adventure series producer. Whether looking for races or adventures, each event allows you to explore little-known paved, dirt, and single-track in Sonoma, Mendocino, and Humbolt County. These are eclectic races designed to push riders to the limit without pushing them over. The 2024 four-event adventure series events run annually from January to May, including Low Gap, Huffmaster Hopper, Lake Sonoma MTB, and Ukiah-Mendo Epic. Special events on their calendar include the USAL Hopper: The Lost Coast, Lake Sonoma Enduro, and the Mendo Hopper. They are all considered to be some of the Best Gravel Grinders in NorCal.
Past events they have produced include King Ridge, Sherwood Adventure, and Humbolt Hopper. There is a competition for the Hopper Super King of the Universe title based on overall points leaders for riders who complete five Hoppers.
For multi-sport athletes, check out other Strambecco best-rated events taking place in California, such as Levi’s Gran Fondo from Bike Monkey or the Mount Diablo Challenge from Valley Spokesmen Bicycling Club, considered to be some of the Best Road Cycling Events in California, the Northwest & Southwest. Mountain bikers will also appreciate top-tier events in the area, such as Boggs MTB and the Downieville Classic. Trail runners – check back for more premier trail running events taking place in NorCal and the broader Northwest.
