The best cycling routes around Westhaven-Moonstone

There are 9 touring cycling routes available around Westhaven-Moonstone, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.

Touring cycling routes in Westhaven-Moonstone feature a diverse landscape. You'll encounter rugged coastlines, ancient redwood forests, and river estuaries. The terrain includes a mix of paved roads and multi-use trails, with some routes combining singletrack, gravel, and dirt sections, especially those winding through forests and along beaches. Expect moderate elevation changes across most routes.

Yes, there is one easy touring cycling route available. The Arcata Plaza loop from McKinleyville is a 17.3-mile (27.8 km) trail that leads through coastal plains, making it a good option for those seeking a less challenging ride.

Yes, several routes offer longer distances. The Arcata Plaza – Historic Samoa Cookhouse loop from McKinleyville covers 36.5 miles (58.8 km), and the Clam Beach County Park – Arcata Plaza loop from Trinidad State Beach is 32.7 miles (52.6 km), both providing substantial rides through varied scenery.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Clam Beach County Park – Arcata Plaza loop from Trinidad State Beach, the Arcata Plaza loop from McKinleyville, and the Trinidad Lighthouse loop from Sue-meg State Park.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Along your rides, you can expect stunning coastal views, especially around Moonstone Beach, Luffenholtz Beach, and College Cove Beach. Routes near Trinidad offer views of the Trinidad Lighthouse and Trinidad Head. You'll also cycle through areas with ancient redwood forests and coastal Sitka spruce forests, providing mystical landscapes and opportunities to spot wildlife.

The mild weather in spring and fall makes these seasons ideal for touring cycling in Westhaven-Moonstone. Summer days are also warm and perfect for exploring. The varied terrain and coastal proximity mean conditions can change, so it's always wise to check local forecasts before heading out.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit for touring routes, the area's diverse terrain includes easier, flatter sections suitable for families. The Arcata Plaza loop from McKinleyville, being an easy route through coastal plains, could be a good option for families looking for a less strenuous ride.

Parking is generally available at key access points for many routes. For example, you can find parking at Clam Beach County Park, which is a starting point for routes like the Clam Beach County Park – Arcata Plaza loop from Trinidad State Beach. Other routes may start near towns like McKinleyville or Trinidad, where public parking is typically available.

While specific public transport connections directly to all trailheads might be limited, towns like Arcata and McKinleyville, which serve as starting points for several routes, often have public transport services. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes for the Humboldt Transit Authority to plan your access to the starting points of tours like the Arcata Plaza – Historic Samoa Cookhouse loop from McKinleyville.

Yes, the touring cycling routes often pass through or near towns like Trinidad, Arcata, and McKinleyville. These towns offer various cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel and find refreshments. For instance, routes starting from McKinleyville or passing through Arcata Plaza will have amenities readily available.

The region is a haven for wildlife. Along the coast, you might spot seabirds, sea lions, and even migrating whales during certain seasons. Inland, especially near redwood forests, you have a chance to see Roosevelt elk, particularly in areas like Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, which is within reach of the broader region.

Yes, within Redwood National and State Parks, cycling is generally permitted on paved roads and designated multi-use trails. The Davison Trail, for example, is a multi-use trail open to bicycles. Always check the specific park regulations for the area you plan to cycle in, as some trails may have restrictions or require permits.