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Arcata Community Forest
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,073 Google reviews · Running trail in Arcata, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Loop distance
- 2 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Arcata Community Forest's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Peaceful regional park known for its expansive trail network, soaring redwoods & bucolic landscape.
What runners say about Arcata Community Forest
“The air is cool and smells clean, infused with the rich, earthy scent of redwood duff and damp ferns.”
“Whether you’re looking for a challenging jog, a scenic bike ride, a gentle walk with your dog, or simply a place to soak in the views, the forest accommodates.”
The Arcata Community Forest is not just a park; it is a profound and deeply magical place that feels entirely disconnected from the hustle of the outside world. To step under its canopy is to witness nature’s majesty up close.
Beautiful forest for the community. Love the trails and just the peace that I get going there.
The Community Forest has some of my most favorite hiking trails in the area. This is my go-to spot for running the kids, and the dog or for showing the beauty of the redwoods to friends and family visiting the area.
Gorgeous little forest in the middle of Arcata, CA. The trails are well maintained, and admission is free. The forest is clean, and dogs are allowed. Mountain bikers are also welcome. There is a small parking lot in the entrance of the forest, but beware, there are only 6 spots.
Trail conditions & character
“Whether you’re looking for a challenging jog, a scenic bike ride, a gentle walk with your dog, or simply a place to soak in the views, the forest accommodates.”
“This is my go-to spot for running the kids, and the dog or for showing the beauty of the redwoods to friends and family visiting the area.”
“The forest is beautiful, tranquil, challenging with its hills (my favorite part), and the locals are friendly and helpful.”
“We were in the redwoods for over a week up here in Humboldt county and this was the first place we came because it’s so easily accessible from the street!”
“Since we were tired from traveling we only did one trail loop but there is plenty more to see - I’m sure one could happily explore this park for a whole day ☺️”
Plan your run at Arcata Community Forest
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- Loop distance2 mi back to where you parked
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitecityofarcata.org
- Phone+1 707-822-8184
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–6 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–6 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–6 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–6 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–6 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–6 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–6 pm |
Running trails near Arcata
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Trail System
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Sunny Brae Forest Trailhead 1
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Redwood Park
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Park set amongst giant redwood trees with picnic tables, a lounge for events & small stage.
Stewart Park
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