Let's Go Biking at the American River Parkway Bike Trail

A thirty-two mile biking trail complete with two-lane paved hiking trails and beautiful Sacramento views!

Free
363 Miles from you
Local Selection: Exceptional experiences in your area that exceed expectations
Learn more

Description

It's time to grab your bikes and gear and bike along the beautiful banks of the American River at the American River Parkway (Jedidiah Smith Memorial Trail). This two-lane trail is completely paved with everything you need along the way. You will find mile markers, trailside maps, water fountains, restrooms and telephones sprinkled all along the route. This trail is truly a biker's dream with the trail being made up on fairly level and mostly shaded trail areas. There are areas of rolling terrain but it's nothing your bike can't handle. There are also plenty of places to stop and have a quick bite, take a nice rest, and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. Along the way you'll also pass through several parks, swimming/river areas and two beautiful pedestrian bridges! A trail you have to get to sooner rather than later.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

Challenging

TikTok videos

Itinerary

Access the trail from one of the many access points
Begin biking through the shaded and beautiful trail
Enjoy the serene landscape and the nature around you
Take a water break along the river bank and look at the beautiful wildflowers
Continue biking until you make it to one of the amazing pedestrian bridges
Have lunch at one of the beautiful parks and admire the wildlife around you
Feel accomplished with a biking trail ride done well

Location

American River Parkway - Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, Sacramento, CA 95833

Show directions

Packing List

sunscreen
water
bicycle
comfortable shoes
loose, comfortable clothing
biking pads
backpack
light snacks/food

4.7 ● Google reviews

This is an area I had wondered about but I never explored how to get down to the trail. It's a bit hidden, but it is a really beautiful trail and it was uncrowded when I went there.

This bridge is awesome! Diving isn’t allowed but hey, a pull-up or two doesn’t harm anything. This cove is pretty peaceful and great for fishing as well.

Really pretty area with a lot of bike traffic. Watch out bc some of the bikers are really chugging through there and don't say "HEADS UP" and it can get a little dicey 😂 would definitely come back to walk, bike, or rent some equipment to go out on the water. Lots of little side paths to choose from or you can stay on the paved part.

Whether you’re out for a walk, jog, bike or trike, this is the best trail of you wanna get a good workout. Trails are mostly flat and only a couple of spots with a short 6%+ gradient climb. Overall it’s a very relaxing and scenic trail to be on.

Being on my 3-wheel Power Scooter, It was very Bumpy & had to take it Slow!! It is made of Recycled Wood & you can See a Variety of Knots in the Wood!! Mountain Bikes with Suspension would do fine!! Pedestrians would have to be Careful Not to Trip!! Otherwise, Nice & Scenic!!

Show all 27 reviews