Hiking is one of those activities that can be both relaxing and grueling simultaneously.
Depending upon where you choose to go on your walking adventure, you may get the opportunity to see pretty birds soaring, whitewater waves crashing against the shoreline, huge trees that are hundreds of years old, a family of ducks floating on a lake, different types of animals, etc.
If you’re looking for an enjoyable way to get into shape, hiking could be your ticket to a fitter you.
They don’t call Sacramento the “City Of Trees” for nothing.
Which makes it a great place to go hiking.
If you’re the nature type, here are what we consider to be the Top 10 Hiking Trails In Sacramento…
1)) Cosumnes River Preserve
This gorgeous piece of land has over 4 miles of trails surrounding the visitor center that are relatively flat. You get to experience waterbirds, lush marshes, wetland plants, insects, and amphibians. Since this is a nature preserve, you must abide by the rules. By the way, dogs are not allowed. Cosumnes River Preserve offers group hiking events.
Address: 13501 Franklin Blvd, Galt, CA 95632
2)) Johnny Cash Trail
This is a 2.5 miles long scenic path around the Folsom State Prison that was built in honor of the late Johnny Cash. The trail was opened on October 14, 2017, by the City of Folsom.
It connects the American River and Folsom Lake, which means you get to enjoy nature while burning calories. It gets better because you have access to local shops and restaurants.
Address: 200 Stafford St, Folsom, CA 95630
3)) Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail (American River Bike)
This 32-mile trail offers some of the best access in the Sacramento area and stretches from Folsom to Old Sacramento while paralleling the American River. It was recognized as a national trail back in 1974 and was voted the number one bike path for 2006 by Trails.com.
Activities along the trail could include hiking, biking, skating, horseback riding, etc.
Address: Regional Parks (Find Entry Points)
4)) Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
This is a magnificent urban wildlife refuge located 10 miles from downtown Sacramento and is the destination of thousands of migrating waterfowl, shorebirds, and various other types of birds. You can enjoy the Blue Heron Trails any time of the year, free of charge, seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. There are activities such as wildlife observation, hiking, and photography.
Address: 1624 Hood Franklin Rd, Elk Grove, CA 95757
5)) Ancil Hoffman Park
This beautiful park boasts several amenities including hiking trails, restrooms, river access, a golf course, equestrian trails, a game field, and access to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center.
There are three picnic sites that can be reserved in advance as well as first come first serve sections. You simply cannot go wrong by visiting this gorgeous park.
Address: 6341 Tarshes Drive Carmichael, CA 95608
6)) Auburn State Recreational Area
There are over 100 miles of hiking and horse trails that wind through the American River canyons available for your enjoyment. The Western States Trail is the most famous, which runs 100 miles from Lake Tahoe to Auburn, with over 20 miles in the park. There are certain trails open to motor vehicles and biking.
Address: 501 El Dorado St, Auburn, CA 95603
7)) Effie Yeaw Nature Center
This is a natural wildlife oasis in an urban setting with 100 acres of oak woodland along the American River Parkway in Carmichael, California. There have been over 1.6 million visitors in the last 40 years. Hundreds of programs are provided to classes of school children, many free of charge. This is the perfect place to take your family for a day of exploration while getting in some exercise.
Address: 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael, CA 95608
8)) Lake Natoma Trail
This 6-mile trail is located near Folsom and is beginner-friendly. There is plenty of wildlife to observe. It's used by pedestrians and bikers to gain access to Folsom Lake State Recreation Area's Willow Creek.
Address: Gold Lake Dr. east of Folsom Blvd. (Check For Multiple Entry Points)
9)) Nimbus Flat State Recreation Area
This is a scenic park along Lake Natoma that contains trails, fishing platforms, picnic areas, restrooms, boat launch ramps, parking, undeveloped terrain, etc. It's common to see people kayaking while enjoying the quiet scenery. When you visit to go on a relaxing hike, be certain to check out the massive Folsom dam.
Address: 7806 Folsom Auburn Road, Folsom, CA 95630
10)) Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area
This lush wildlife area is over 16,000 acres and is a sanctuary for migratory birds, waterfowl, shorebirds, fish, raptors, snakes, invertebrates, turtles, bats, etc.
Some activities include bird watching, wildlife viewing, nature exploration, educational programs, and hunting. The grounds are open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
Address: 45211 Co Rd 32B, Davis, CA 95618
Safety Tips:
- Bring a backpack that includes survival supplies
- Always hike with one or more people
- Let someone know where and when you plan to go hiking
- Wear the proper gear based on the terrain and weather conditions
Conclusion
You’ve just discovered our Top 10 Hiking Trails In Sacramento!
Of course, not all the trails are in Sacramento, some are nearby and well worth the drive to experience the tranquility of nature.
According to Wikipedia, hiking is a long, vigorous walk, usually on trails or footpaths in the countryside.
Hiking doesn’t necessarily mean trekking through dangerous terrain and putting yourself at risk.
A hike could be a leisurely walk on a beautiful trail while bird watching.
Keep in mind that there are several other hiking trails in the Sacramento area that you should plan on visiting.
Hiking has many benefits that range from burning extra calories which is great for weight loss to therapeutic advantages great for stress relief and clearing your mind.
If you’ve been wanting to go on a hike, then now is the time to dust off your shoes and do it!
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