2.3 hr
Overview
The Hammond Trail is a 5.5-mile section of the Coastal Trail that is accessible for hikers, bikers, horses and wheelchairs. The trail follows the Mad River until just past the mouth at the Pacific Ocean, with beach access in a few locations. Hammond Trail is well maintained and in excellent condition, with substantial signage and ease of access at multiple locations. The trail varies from on a side road to paved doubletrack most of the way, to doubletrack gravel for portions. Spur trails can be found around Hiller Park and Clam Beach.
Trail Stats
8.9 km
57 m
44 m
5 m
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Photos
Sea lions at the mouth of the Mad River on Hammond Trail near Clam Beach.
Sea lions at the mouth of the Mad River on Hammond Trail near Clam Beach.
Letz Avenue section of Hammond Trail in northern McKinleyville.
Letz Avenue section of Hammond Trail in northern McKinleyville.
Hammond Trail near Highway 101 south of Clam Beach.
Hammond Trail near Highway 101 south of Clam Beach.
As it continues the Hammond Trail gives way to a wide dirt road.
As it continues the Hammond Trail gives way to a wide dirt road.
Occasional benches make good spots to stop and enjoy the views or catch your breath.
Occasional benches make good spots to stop and enjoy the views or catch your breath.
The paved Hammond Trail near Clam Beach.
The paved Hammond Trail near Clam Beach.
Hammond Trail near Highway 101 south of Clam Beach.
Hammond Trail near Highway 101 south of Clam Beach.
This is the trail to the lookout, which also features an overgrown spur trail.
This is the trail to the lookout, which also features an overgrown spur trail.
Hammond Trail near Highway 101 north of McKinleyville.
Hammond Trail near Highway 101 north of McKinleyville.
The Mouth of the Mad River Lookout offers a great view of the ocean waves.
The Mouth of the Mad River Lookout offers a great view of the ocean waves.
Lichen grows on Sitka spruce trees off the Hammond Trail.
Lichen grows on Sitka spruce trees off the Hammond Trail.
Enjoy forested views of the Mad River from the Hammond Trail.
Enjoy forested views of the Mad River from the Hammond Trail.
Looking back toward Clam Beach and Trinidad on the Hammond Trail.
Looking back toward Clam Beach and Trinidad on the Hammond Trail.