The best cycling routes around Sacramento

Sacramento offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 60 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy riverside paths to more challenging rides.

Yes, Sacramento is very beginner and family-friendly. A significant portion of the routes, around 44, are rated as easy. The American River Bike Trail Loop is a great example, offering a largely flat, paved path along the river, suitable for all skill levels and providing amenities like water fountains and restrooms.

Sacramento's touring cycling routes offer diverse terrain. You'll find extensive river parkways along the American and Sacramento Rivers, featuring largely flat, paved paths. Beyond these, the landscape expands into rolling oak woodlands, grasslands, and a network of levee trails, particularly towards the Sierra Nevada foothills, providing more varied and sometimes unpaved sections.

Sacramento's relatively dry winters and pleasant climate make it a year-round cycling destination. Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures, but even winter cycling is popular due to mild conditions. Summer can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are often preferred during those months.

Yes, many routes in Sacramento are designed as loops, perfect for touring cyclists. The Sacramento River Bike Trail Loop is a popular moderate option, providing scenic riverfront views. Another excellent choice is the American River and Folsom South Canal Trail Loop, which combines river parkways with canal paths.

While cycling in Sacramento, you can encounter several notable landmarks and attractions. The iconic Tower Bridge is a common starting point for routes. Along the American River Parkway, you'll cross the distinctive Guy West Bridge. Other points of interest include Discovery Park and various historic sites in Old Sacramento.

Absolutely. The river parkways, especially the American River Parkway, are known for wildlife viewing. You might spot various bird species, deer, and other small animals. Areas like the Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge and Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, accessible from some routes, offer dedicated opportunities for observing local fauna.

Many of Sacramento's popular cycling routes, particularly those along the American River Parkway, have numerous trailheads with ample parking. Public transport access varies, but key areas like Old Sacramento, a common starting point, are well-served by local transit, making it convenient to begin your ride.

Yes, Sacramento's extensive trail network often passes through or near urban areas and parks where you can find cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores. The American River Parkway, for instance, has regular amenities including water fountains and restrooms, and is never far from places to grab a bite or a drink.

The touring cycling experience in Sacramento is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 90 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the extensive, well-maintained network of trails, the scenic riverfront views, and the diverse landscapes that range from urban parks to oak woodlands, making it enjoyable for all skill levels.

Beyond the prominent river parkways, Sacramento offers unique landscapes like rolling oak woodlands and grasslands, especially as you venture towards the Sierra Nevada foothills. The region also features a network of levee trails in West Sacramento, providing distinct opportunities for gravel cycling and exploring agricultural areas.

Many of Sacramento's outdoor trails and parks are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. The paved river parkways are generally suitable for cycling with a leashed dog, but it's always recommended to check specific park or trail regulations beforehand to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.