The best cycling routes around Sacramento

Sacramento offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 120 options available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, including 53 easy, 50 moderate, and 26 difficult tours, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.

The touring cycling routes in Sacramento are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 4.36 stars from over 480 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the extensive river parkways, diverse levee trails, and access to rolling oak woodlands, highlighting the varied terrain and scenic beauty.

Sacramento's touring cycling landscape is diverse, featuring extensive river parkways like the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail (American River Bike Trail), which is mostly flat and paved. You'll also find charming trails along the Sacramento River, and a network of levee trails in West Sacramento offering excellent gravel riding opportunities. Beyond the urban and riparian areas, routes extend into rolling oak woodlands and the Sierra foothills for more challenging experiences.

Yes, Sacramento is a bike-friendly city with various public transport options that can help you access bike trails. Many local buses are equipped with bike racks, and the light rail system also accommodates bicycles, making it convenient to reach different trailheads throughout the region. For specific routes, it's best to check the Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) website for current schedules and bike policies.

Parking is generally available at various access points along Sacramento's popular bike trails. For the American River Bike Trail (Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail), you can find parking at numerous parks along its 32-mile stretch, including Discovery Park and Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. Other trails like the Sacramento Northern Bike Trail and Sacramento River Parkway also have designated parking areas, often near parks or public access points.

Absolutely. Sacramento is ideal for easy and beginner-friendly touring cycling. The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail (American River Bike Trail) is a prime example, being mostly flat, paved, and well-maintained with amenities. The Sacramento River Parkway also offers charming and easy rides with scenic views of the Tower Bridge and Old Sacramento Waterfront. These routes are perfect for a relaxed cycling experience.

Yes, Sacramento offers several options for long-distance touring cycling. The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail itself spans over 30 miles, connecting the Old Sacramento Waterfront to Folsom Lake, making it suitable for a substantial day ride. Additionally, the extensive network of levee trails and country roads towards Davis provides opportunities for longer rides, allowing you to explore beyond the immediate city limits.

Many of Sacramento's touring cycling routes can be enjoyed as loops or combined to create circular journeys. While the American River Bike Trail is primarily point-to-point, its numerous access points allow for shorter loop sections. The network of urban greenways, bike paths, and levee trails also provides ample opportunities to plan circular routes of varying lengths and difficulties, often returning to your starting point.

Sacramento's touring cycling routes offer a mix of terrain. You'll find extensive paved paths, particularly along the American and Sacramento Rivers. For gravel enthusiasts, the network of levee trails in West Sacramento, especially near the Tower Bridge, provides excellent opportunities for off-road exploration. Country roads towards Davis also offer extensive gravel riding, allowing for a different kind of cycling adventure away from the paved paths.

Sacramento is very family-friendly for touring cyclists. The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail (American River Bike Trail) is particularly well-suited for families due to its flat, paved surface, clear signage, and amenities like restrooms and water fountains. Many parks along the river also offer picnic areas and playgrounds, making it easy to combine cycling with other family activities.

Many of Sacramento's outdoor spaces and trails are dog-friendly, but rules can vary. Generally, dogs are permitted on leash on most multi-use trails, including sections of the American River Parkway. However, it's always best to check specific park or trail regulations before heading out, especially regarding waste disposal and leash requirements, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Sacramento boasts over 250 days of sunshine annually, making it a favorable destination for touring cycling year-round. However, the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant temperatures for cycling. Summers can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended, while winters are generally mild, though occasional rain may occur.

Sacramento's touring cycling routes offer access to various attractions and landmarks. Along the rivers, you can enjoy views of the Tower Bridge and the historic Old Sacramento Waterfront. Further afield, you might encounter historical sites like Bom Sucesso Fort or cultural landmarks such as Casa do Alentejo. The region also features natural monuments like the Monument to the Overseas Combatants and the Eduardo VII Park Viewpoint, offering diverse points of interest.

Yes, Sacramento's bike-friendly infrastructure means many routes pass near or through areas with dining options. Along the American River Bike Trail, you'll find cafes and picnic areas. The Old Sacramento Waterfront, accessible via the Sacramento River Parkway, offers numerous restaurants and pubs. Additionally, the city's growing craft beer scene means you can often find breweries within a short detour from various urban and suburban bike paths, perfect for a post-ride refreshment.