The best traffic-free bike rides in Sacramento County

Pedal along the American River Bike Trail, also known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, for a delightful touring cycling experience through Sacramento's green corridor. This moderate route spans 35.5 miles (57.2 km) with a gentle 412 feet (126 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 13 minutes to complete. You'll glide on a well-maintained paved path, passing through diverse scenery from shaded woodlands to open parks, all while following the American River's graceful flow. Look for the impressive Nimbus Dam and the William B. Pond Recreation Area as you ride, offering pleasant viewpoints along American River Bike Trail.

Planning your trip is straightforward, as the trail is accessible year-round with multiple entry and exit points, allowing you to tailor your distance. You'll find ample parking and access points, along with restrooms, picnic areas, and drinking water facilities at various locations. The trail is also dog friendly, provided your pets are kept on a leash, making it a great option for the whole family.

Designated a National Trail since 1974, this route stands out as one of America's longest purpose-built paved bike paths, offering both recreational enjoyment and a significant commuter artery. It overlaps with U.S. Bicycle Route 50 and connects to other regional trails, like the Sacramento River Bike Trail, providing opportunities for extended adventures. The American River Parkway trail map highlights this protected green space, known for its diverse wildlife including deer and various birds.

The American River Bike Trail, also known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, offers a fantastic escape into nature right from Sacramento. This entirely paved route winds alongside the American River, treating you to picturesque riverside views, wooded sections, and open grassy areas. You'll find yourself quickly leaving the urban bustle behind, enjoying the natural beauty and spotting local wildlife, with notable features like the impressive Nimbus Dam and the iconic Guy West Bridge along the way.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible from over 10 locations, many of which provide parking, restrooms, and drinking water. Public transit, specifically Sacramento Regional Transit's light rail Gold Line, also runs parallel to parts of the trail, offering additional access options. This moderate route covers 41.8 miles (67.3 km) with 669 feet (204 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 52 minutes to complete.

Recognized as a National Trail since 1974, this route is one of America's longest purpose-built paved bike paths, making it a celebrated green corridor. It's largely flat, with only a gentle, gradual climb when heading upstream towards Folsom Lake, making it ideal for touring cyclists of all skill levels, including families. The trail also connects to other routes like the Sacramento River Bike Trail, expanding your cycling possibilities.

The American River Bike Trail, also known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, offers an expansive touring cycling adventure along the American River. You'll pedal through a delightful mix of lush parks, shaded woodlands, and open stretches, often adorned with wildflowers, especially vibrant in spring. The path is predominantly flat and paved, making for a smooth ride, but the full 57.2 miles (92.0 km) with 811 feet (247 metres) of elevation gain makes it a difficult route, typically taking around 5 hours and 18 minutes. Look out for landmarks like the Nimbus Dam and the scenic Lake Natoma as you cycle.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail boasts numerous access points, restrooms, and water fountains along its length. While the American River Bike Trail is accessible year-round, consider cycling in the early morning or late afternoon during summer to beat the heat. There are plenty of parking options at various trailheads, from Discovery Park in Sacramento to Beal's Point near Folsom Lake, making it easy to jump on and off.

This nationally recognized trail is celebrated as one of America's longest purpose-built paved bike paths, offering a refreshing escape into nature just outside the urban bustle. It connects to other routes like the Sacramento River Bike Trail, providing opportunities for extended rides. The trail's robust infrastructure and diverse scenery make it a cherished resource for both recreation and commuting, appealing to cyclists looking for a long, well-supported journey.

The American River Bike Trail Loop offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience, tracing the scenic American River. You'll glide along a smooth, paved path, transitioning from urban parks to tranquil wooded sections and open grassy areas, all while enjoying continuous riverside views. This 19.9-mile (32.0 km) loop has a minimal 125 feet (38 metres) of elevation gain, making it an accessible ride for nearly two hours.

Accessing the trail is simple, with many points along its length providing parking, restrooms, and water. While you can ride year-round, spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions. If you plan to cycle during the summer, consider an early morning or late afternoon start to beat the heat.

Known also as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, this route is celebrated as one of the longest paved purpose-built bike paths in the United States. It's not just a recreational path but also a vital commuter artery, showcasing excellent urban planning that integrates outdoor activity with environmental preservation.

The American River and Folsom South Canal Trail Loop offers a moderate 28.3-mile (45.6 km) touring cycling experience, combining two distinct environments. You'll begin on the popular American River Bike Trail, enjoying its shaded, riverside paths and gentle elevation gains, before transitioning to the Folsom South Canal Trail. This second section provides a stark contrast with its long, flat, and often solitary stretches alongside the canal, where you might spot various birds and appreciate the open, industrial landscape. With only 192 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain, this route is manageable for most cyclists and typically takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the American River Bike Trail boasts numerous access points, parking, and essential amenities like restrooms and drinking water. While the Folsom South Canal Trail is less developed, it provides a direct connection from southeast Sacramento County. Be mindful that the canal trail has very little shade, so it's wise to carry extra water and consider riding during cooler times of day or year to avoid the full sun and potential wind.

What makes this loop truly stand out is its ability to offer a diverse riding experience within a single journey. It uniquely blends the lush, well-maintained American River Bike Trail with the quieter, more exposed Folsom South Canal Trail. This combination provides both the vibrant, community feel of a popular trail and the peaceful solitude of a less-traveled path, making it an excellent option for long-distance training or simply enjoying varied scenery.