The Redwood Coast Mountain Bike Association (RCMBA) has officially broken ground on a new bike trail within the McKay Community Forest, marking the start of an exciting development for local cycling enthusiasts. This initiative, which began earlier this week, is the first of three planned phases for the trail.
The initial phase, funded by the RCMBA and generous donations, will include the construction of a pump track, an intermediate-level jump trail, and a beginner-friendly loop around the park. These features aim to cater to riders of all skill levels, providing a well-rounded experience for the community.
“It was a couple of years ago that we began discussions with the county as they ramped up efforts to transform McKay into a community forest for everyone to enjoy,” said Tai Morgan-Marbet, a board member of the Redwood Coast Mountain Bike Association. “We established a partnership with the county and identified the Northridge parking area as an ideal spot for a bike skills area.”
While the bike trail’s development is still in its early stages, progress is underway. The RCMBA is coordinating with Cal Poly Humboldt to receive dirt from the university’s construction of a new engineering and technology building. This material will be used to create landings for jumps and enhance the pump track.
In addition to the pump track, a nearly completed downhill mountain bike trail off Northridge Road is set to be finalized after some much-needed moisture reaches the area. This trail is expected to be ready for riders by the fall.
This isn’t the first time the RCMBA has spearheaded local biking projects. Prior to the pandemic, the group successfully established a pump track at Newburg Park in Fortuna. A pump track is a continuous loop of banked turns designed to allow riders to build momentum through body movement, without the need for pedaling.
The McKay Community Forest project represents a significant step forward in the RCMBA’s ongoing efforts to create accessible and enjoyable biking opportunities in the region. As work continues, the community eagerly anticipates the completion of this new trail system, which promises to become a cherished destination for mountain biking enthusiasts.
related topics:
