Sacramento River Bike Trail – Tower Bridge loop from Pocket + Blue Dolphin

If you're looking for one of Sacramento's most popular routes for touring cycling, the Sacramento River Bike Trail – Tower Bridge loop from Pocket + Blue Dolphin delivers a moderate 27.5-mile (44.3 km) ride with a gentle 227 feet (69 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 31 minutes. This route is an excellent choice for a relaxed outing, offering continuous river views without demanding too much effort, making it ideal for a wide range of riders.

What to expect on Sacramento River Bike Trail – Tower Bridge loop from Pocket + Blue Dolphin

Expect a journey along largely paved and flat terrain, ensuring a smooth ride with very little climbing. The route offers continuous, picturesque views of the Sacramento River, winding through a mix of wooded areas, open spaces, and pleasant residential neighborhoods. A significant highlight is cycling through the historic Old Sacramento Waterfront District and crossing the distinctive Tower Bridge, a true landmark. This easy to moderate ride is perfect for touring cyclists and anyone looking for a relaxed outing with plenty of scenic viewpoints.

Planning your visit

The trail is largely paved and accessible, though minor detours onto sidewalks or roads might occur to connect segments. Efforts are underway to pave a four-mile gap in the levee trail through the Pocket and Greenhaven neighborhoods, aiming for a continuous, street-crossing-free experience. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for this route, and it’s generally accessible year-round, though checking Sacramento weather conditions before you go is always a good idea.

Trail details

• Distance: 27.5 miles (44.3 km)
• Elevation gain: 227 feet (69 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 31 minutes