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Best Bike Trails Near Sacramento

Sacramento is fortunate to have many great bike trails around the city and county. These bike trails can be challenging for advanced riders and simple enough for beginners. Additionally, the trails are surrounded by some beautiful scenery that will surely aid in an overall enthusiastic and satisfying bike ride.
Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail
www.regionalparks.saccounty.net

The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, also known as the American River Bike Trail, is arguably the best bike trail in all of Sacramento. This two-lane trail begins at Discovery Park, spans roughly 32 miles along the American River and ends at Beals Point. In addition to biking, this trail can also be used by runners, hikers and horseback riders to name a few. It's common to see moms pushing strollers, inline skaters and bikers a few times a week. Some of the park entrances charge fees for vehicle parking and there are random spots along the trail that have bathrooms. Lastly, passing is done on the left and there is a 15 mph bicycling speed that's enforced.

Sacramento River Parkway Trail
www.traillink.com

The Sacramento River Parkway Trail, also known as the Sacramento River Rail Trail, is a nine-mile bike trail that takes cyclists right through the heart of Sacramento's railroad history. The trail begins at Tiscornia Park, which is located at the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers. This trail takes you along the Sacramento River, through the old railyards and Old Sacramento. Follow along Front Street to the Capitol Mall near the Tower Bridge and pick up the next portion of the trail, which takes you another few miles down to South Sacramento. The trail ends near Bear Flag School Park and also connects to other trails in the Pocket area. The bike trail is also wheelchair accessible and provides unique glimpses of downtown Sacramento.

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Elk Grove Creek Trail
www.elkgrovecity.org

The Elk Grove Creek Trail is just under nine miles in length and travels along the Elk Grove Creek. This trail has a paved surface with a brief disconnect. From this trail, you can access four different parks or visit a wide range of restaurants and stores. The trail also features a bridge that crosses over Highway 99. Parking can be found at the handful of parks along the trail. The northern portion of the trail connects Elk Grove with South Sacramento, while the southern portion of the trail continues through the heart of Elk Grove. Walking and biking are the preferred options for this trail. In-line skating is also an option, but there are some portions that could present a rough surface to skate on.

Miner's Raving Bike Trail
www.roseville.ca.us

The Miner's Ravine Trail spans roughly 7.5 miles through Roseville and ends in Rocklin. This trail follows along Dry Creek and Miners Ravine while providing an isolated, outdoor feel in the heart of the suburbs. There is a break in the trail that can make it appear to be two different trails. There are a handful of places to park from shopping plazas to Saugstad Park. The trail is also ideal for walking, in-line skating and is wheelchair accessible.

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Rick Rockwell is a freelance writer in Sacramento. He has a lengthy freelance writing background covering a wide range of topics like: Sports, Fitness and Traveling. His work can be found at CalExplornia.com .

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