The best cycling routes around Mckinleyville

Just 30 miles north of Eureka, Sue-meg State Park stretches across a forested headland overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Though only one square mile in size, the park is packed with natural beauty and cultural discovery. A stroll around its perimeter reveals agate-strewn beaches, vibrant tidepools, and lush coastal forest, with chances to spot seals, sea lions, and even migrating whales. Deeper within, visitors can explore a native plant garden, stop by the visitor center, or walk through a reconstructed Yurok plank-house village. Three scenic campgrounds offer peaceful spots to picnic or spend the night beneath the stars. In summer, guests can attend traditional ceremonies at Sumêg Village or join guided hikes led by docents and naturalists. Whether you're here for wildlife, history, or solitude, Sue-meg offers something remarkable around every corner.

Stretching approximately 6.5 miles along the bay's shoreline, the trail passes by salt marshes and sand dunes. Interpretive signs add some nice context about the area’s natural and cultural history. If you’re in Eureka and want to stretch your legs with a view, this trail is a solid pick, and it's a great option for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Clam Beach County Park is a popular public park in McKinleyville, California. The beach area is sandy, and there is so much space that you can absolutely find some solitude on the shore if you want to. There are also a handful of picnic areas for you to park your bike at and check out the views.

The Plaza, with its lawns and flowerbeds, is the social and commercial center of Arcata. Charming shops selling locally handcrafted goods, sporting goods, boutiques, and restaurants line the Plaza and the streets beyond. Arcata is a college town with particularly interesting bookstores and coffeehouses. Stop at Arcata Artisans on the Plaza. Don't miss Jacoby's Storehouse. This restored historic building features shops and a delightful central area where you can sit, enjoy an ice cream cone or a snack, and relax.

The Ma-'e'l Dunes offer a range of recreational opportunities that allow visitors to experience a diverse and dynamic coastal landscape of forests and salt marshes, sand dunes and beaches. The northern portion of Ma-le'l is part of the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge (HBNWR). Access to the trails is limited to pedestrians only. The road to the north parking lot is closed to vehicles on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday to provide visitors with a "wilderness" experience. The southern portion of Ma-le'l, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), allows dog walking and equestrian activities on designated trails. Please protect natural and cultural resources by following visitor guidelines.

Located on Humboldt Bay, Manila Community Park offers incredible views, a playground, two tennis courts, basketball courts, open lawns, and walking trails through a freshwater marsh. It's a great place to picnic, relax, or explore.

“The Pinc,” as the new owners now affectionately call it, has seen plenty of history through its jewel-toned stained glass windows at 202 M Street in Eureka. Located on Humboldt Bay, the majestic, historic home was built in 1889 by lumber magnate William Carson as a wedding gift for his son J. Milton Carson and his wife Mary Amelia (Bell) Carson. William lived across the street in the famous Carson mansion, considered one of the most magnificent Victorian homes in America. The J. Milton Carson House, known locally as “The Pink Lady” over the years, is crowned with iconic, ornamental Victorian features. Famous as a classic example of the Queen Anne architectural style, its large bay windows, delicate cornices, graceful spires, and lace gingerbread trim attract tourists and architecture lovers alike.

Built in 1920, the Arkley Center for the Performing Arts - originally called the Sweasey Theater - is a historic theater in downtown Eureka. The building is described as "eclectic" as architects James and Merrit Reid designed it combining the Beaux Arts, Sullivanesque and Mission styles. The building's facade features ornate terracotta decorations, twin towers and the marquee. The theater was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.