The McKay Tract is a large parcel of logged redwood forest bought by the county in 2014 for the purpose of creating a community forest like Arcata’s. The trail plan was approved in 2022 and most of the trails shown here—mostly old logging roads and social trails created by bicyclists—had not been improved, maintained, named, or signed at the time this book was published. Dramatic changes are slated for the coming years, but for the time being the site offers a near-wilderness experience at Eureka’s doorstep. Be prepared for mud, water, blowdown, and encroaching vegetation. This route circumnavigates the forest’s southern units. An even larger circuit is proposed in the trail plan and there are many ways to shorten this one. Before setting out, download the track as there are numerous unofficial trails and it’s easy to get lost or wander onto private property.
