Gregory Goes There

When most people think backpacking, they think mountains. But heading for remote sections of coast line - particularly on rugged coasts like those in northern California - offers an equally inspiring setting, and frequently a more solitary experience than one can find in popular mountain destinations.

At least, that’s what some of the crew from Gregory found on a recent weekend.

Designers Mark Thibadeau and CJ Whittaker, along with Whittaker’s better half, Ann, headed up Route 101 for a little more exploring in Gregory’s new backyard after the recent move to Sacramento. Not knowing quite what they’d find, both surfboards and guitars were in tow. If the waves weren’t in, there’d be entertainment anyway.

They ended up on the Lost Coast Trail, a 25 to 30-mile section of rugged coast line a ways north of the Bay Area. Arriving at the trail head two hours before dark on Friday night, they had to put it in high gear to get to their camp that night, but the rest of the weekend was at a more leisurely pace, hanging out playing guitar, exploring remote coast line, and the occasional dip in pretty chilly water.

Small, knee-high waves, the frigid water temps and wet suits in need of replacement made for a combo that didn’t invite paddling out, but scouting some breaks that deliver in better wave conditions for future trips was accomplished. And, of course, product testing (they are designers, after all; gotta make sure things work right). New packs in the Jet Stream line - Z65s and Jade 60s - hauled the goods to camp.

But the walk north along the Lost Coast Trail was inspiring - black lava sand, the smells of the ocean and mountains intermingled, along with breezy conditions. Getting more familiar with the new backyard is a good thing …