California Coast Trails by Joseph Smeaton Chase is a captivating and detailed account of a man's incredible journey along the California coast. The author's vivid descriptions of the landscape and wildlife paint a vivid picture of the beauty of the region. Chase's passion for nature and hiking is evident throughout the book, making it an engaging read for anyone with an interest in the great outdoors. The book also provides valuable insight into the history and culture of California, offering readers a unique perspective on the state. Overall, California Coast Trails is a well-written and informative book that is sure to inspire adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Book Description:
In 1911, decades before California's coast Highway 1 was built, an Englishman rode 2000 miles on horseback the length of California, from Mexico to Oregon. On the way he is courteously received at isolated ranches, has many quiet adventures, and is generally amazed by the beauty of our coast. A classic early California travelog. Chase was born in Islington (London) and but lived most of this life in the California desert.

Here are Chase's major landmarks, first going south and then turning north:
Chap. 1 El Monte to Laguna Beach. Chap. 2 Aliso Canyon to San Juan Capistrano. Chap. 3 San Juan hot springs (east of Mission Viejo) to Oceanside. Chap 4. Del Mar to San Diego. Chap. 5 San Fernando Valley to Malibu. Chap. 6 Boney Mountain (in the Santa Monica Mtns.) to Ventura. Chap. 7 Carpenteria to Santa Barbara. Chap 8. Refugio Pass (south of Solvang) to Lompoc. Chap. 9 Solvang to Las Cruces (south of Solvang). Chap. 10 Point Conception back to Lompoc. Chap. 11 Casmalia to Avila (on SLO Bay). Chap. 12 San Luis Obispo to Morro Bay. Chap. 13 to Jolon and Mission San Antonio de Padua (SE of Ft. Hunter Liggett). Chap. 14 to Pacific Valley (south of Limekiln State Park). Chap. 15 Limekiln, Lucia, to about Lopez Point. Chap. 16 Big Sur, Point Sur Lighthouse to Monterey. Chap. 17 Seaside through the Santa Cruz Mtns. to Pescadero (San Mateo Co.). Chap. 18 Half Moon Bay, San Francisco, to Drakes Bay. Chap. 19 Tomales Bay to Gualala. Chap. 20 Navarro to Westport. Chap. 21 King Range and the Mattole Valley to Eureka. Chap. 22 Arcata to the Klamath.