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Five Reasons To Visit Sacramento For Spring Break

Sacramento has long been a place that offers more than most people can imagine. First off is the prime location, making it possible to visit the ocean, the valley or the nearby Sierra from a comfy B&B or hotel in Sacramento. It's simply ideal. The weather in spring is mostly very nice, with the trees and flowers rushing to full burst, and fine comfortable temperatures. Need more? Take a look.
Sierra-At-Tahoe
1111 Sierra-at-Tahoe Road
Twin Bridges, CA 95735
(530) 659-7453
www.sierraattahoe.com

A short drive to the nearby Sierra and you're into snow. Sierra-at-Tahoe is a very family-friendly ski resort that is loaded with great trails, runs and parks. If you brought your own gear, great. If not, its rental gear is the most current snow sport gear available. Food is plentiful and uber tasty. Take the Grandview lift to the top and enjoy a straight view to Lake Tahoe. Launch yourself down the hill and start carving your spring break turns. This resort has it all, including three Olympians who call Sierra-at-Tahoe home.

International World Peace Rose Gardens
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 381-5433
www.worldpeacerosegardens.org

Take some time to visit the State Capitol Park in downtown Sacramento. You'll know you're close to the rose gardens as your nose begins to twitch with the spring fragrances of these wonderful roses. The rose garden is extensive, with over 650 roses in 140 varieties and colors. They occupy about a half acre and are a stunning sight. All of the roses are labeled. Jot down your favorites and perhaps do some planting at your place. The gardens have more than enough places to sit and enjoy the colorful scene. Scattered around are 44 inspirational messages of peace, written by Sacramento youth. It really is a must see, and spring is a fantastic time to do so.

American River Bike Trail
7755 Folsom-Auburn Road
Folsom, CA 95630
(916) 988-0205
www.regionalparks.saccounty.net

This 32-mile, class 1 paved trail runs from Discovery Park in Sacramento to Beals Point at Folsom Lake, in Folsom. Spring time here is an absolute marvel. There are many places to access the trail. With two lakes and two rivers along its length, it's a wild land riparian interface with the cities it meanders through. Ride a bike, paddle a kayak, canoe or float in an inner tube. Camp, hike, fish or picnic along the winding path. Go through some historic bits, enjoy the wildlife and then head back to civilization, a very short drive, for a relaxing meal or a great room in one of the fine hotels spread out in the cities of Sacramento and Folsom.

Related: Best Spring Art Events In Sacramento

Clouds Pottery
608 1/2 Sutter Street
Folsom, CA 95630
(916) 985-3411
www.cloudspottery.com

This pottery spot has been designing and throwing pots since 1977. G.F. and Penny Cloud started it, and yes, it's real pottery. Eighty percent of what you see here is made on a potter's wheel. The rest of the pots are molded in molds that are made by the potters here. Clouds Pottery produces both oxidation and reduction fired pots, with beautiful results. The studio is in an old building in the historic part of Folsom. If you are a clay fan, you have to visit this place. The bonus is the old town part of Folsom, with wonderful eats and eclectic shopping, all along Sutter Street. Spring is the perfect time to wander around here.

Taylor Creek Visitors Center
Visitor Center Road
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
(530) 543-2674
www.csrmf.org

That large alpine lake to the east of Sacramento is a must see. Lake Tahoe is a true jewel. The Visitors Center is the perfect place to start if you're new to visiting the lake. The US Forest Service has a very inviting center here. You'll be able to find out what's available in the area, pick up maps and books, and enjoy the awesome spring weather on this part of the lake. Bring some warm clothes as it can be chilly in early spring. There is a nature walk that draws children and adults again and again. Find out a bit about the history of the lake and talk to the Forest Service people here for more insight. You're just two hours out of Sacramento, but in a completely different world. Your day will be full, and so will the memory card on your camera.

Related: Best Weekend Getaways In The Sacramento Area

Charles Ferris is a freelance writer who has lived in the Sierra, halfway between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, for the last 41 years. In 2010 he retired from teaching after 36 years . He and his wife hike, kayak, cross country ski, snow shoe, ride mountain bikes and road bikes, year round. His work can be found at Examiner.com.
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