American River Parkway | Sacramento

The American River Parkway is a 23-mile-long natural corridor that runs through the heart of Sacramento, California. It follows the course of the American River, stretching from Folsom Lake in the east to the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers near Discovery Park in the west. The parkway offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities, making it one of the region’s most beloved outdoor spaces.

1. Overview and History

The American River Parkway was established to preserve the natural landscape and maintain access to the river's edge while balancing urban development and outdoor recreation. The parkway was designated as a California State Scenic Parkway in 1982, reflecting the importance of the area for both environmental protection and public enjoyment.

The area has historical significance as it was a central location during the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s. Gold miners used the river for transportation, and remnants of old mining operations can still be found along parts of the parkway.

2. Natural Features

The parkway follows the American River through varied landscapes, from dense riparian forests to open meadow areas. Key natural features include:

Riparian Habitat: The parkway is home to a wide range of native plants and trees, including cottonwood, willows, and sycamores. These areas provide important habitats for wildlife.

Wildlife: The parkway supports many species, including deer, coyotes, river otters, beavers, and a diverse population of birds, such as egrets, herons, and red-tailed hawks.

River Access: The American River is a key feature of the parkway, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.

3. Recreational Activities

The American River Parkway is a hub for outdoor activities, with amenities and trails designed to accommodate a wide range of users.

Walking and Hiking Trails

Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail: This multi-use paved trail runs the full length of the parkway and is perfect for cyclists, runners, and walkers. It starts at Discovery Park and extends all the way to Folsom Lake, offering scenic views of the river and surrounding areas.

Dirt Trails: In addition to the paved trail, the parkway features a network of dirt trails for hikers and mountain bikers, providing access to more rugged areas of the park.

Cycling

The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail is a popular route for cyclists, both casual and competitive. The trail's length and connection to Folsom Lake make it an ideal destination for long rides.

Many cyclists use the parkway as a commuting route to downtown Sacramento, taking advantage of the scenic and relatively flat path.

Fishing and Boating

The American River is a great spot for fishing, with species such as salmon, steelhead, trout, and bass available, especially during the seasonal fish runs.

The parkway provides several boat ramps and launch points along the river, with many people enjoying canoeing, kayaking, and rafting.

Sacramento’s Whitewater Park, located along the American River, offers a designated spot for whitewater rafting and kayaking.

Picnicking and Outdoor Events

There are numerous picnic areas along the parkway, many with BBQs and restroom facilities, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings and outdoor events.

The parkway’s open spaces are used for various recreational activities, including frisbee, kite flying, and softball.

4. Key Locations and Features Along the Parkway

Folsom Lake: The eastern terminus of the parkway, offering extensive opportunities for boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those wanting to access the start of the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail.

Sacramento State Aquatic Center: Located along the parkway, this facility offers boat rentals and a launch area for those looking to explore the river in various watercraft.

Ancil Hoffman Park: A 250-acre park with additional recreational amenities, including picnic areas, golf courses, and access to the American River for fishing and swimming.

The American River Confluence: This is the point where the American River meets the Sacramento River near Discovery Park. It’s an important historical location and a popular spot for outdoor activities like fishing, picnicking, and wildlife observation.

Haggin Oaks Golf Complex: Situated along the parkway, this 36-hole golf course is one of the region’s most renowned golfing destinations and offers a unique experience in an urban setting.

5. Events and Community Involvement

The American River Parkway plays host to various community events throughout the year, including:

Races and Marathons: Many competitive events, such as the American River Parkway Half Marathon, are held along the trail system.

Environmental Clean-up Events: Volunteer groups often work to preserve the natural beauty of the parkway by hosting river clean-ups and habitat restoration projects.

Educational Programs: The parkway also serves as an educational site for schools, with many programs focusing on local wildlife, river ecosystems, and history.

6. Access and Facilities

The parkway is accessible year-round and offers a variety of amenities for visitors:

Public Transit: Multiple bus routes and light rail stations are located near the parkway, including stops along the western edge at Discovery Park and other nearby access points.

Parking: Several free parking lots are located along the parkway, particularly at trailheads and near popular destinations like Discovery Park and Ancil Hoffman Park.

Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available at major trailheads and picnic areas.

Dog-Friendly Areas: The parkway is dog-friendly, though pets are required to be on leashes in most areas.

7. Safety and Considerations

Flooding: The American River Parkway is located in a floodplain, and during high-water periods (especially in the winter), sections of the park may be closed due to rising river levels.

Wildlife: While the parkway is home to a variety of wildlife, visitors should be cautious of potentially dangerous animals such as coyotes and rattlesnakes. It's important to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding wildlife.

Sun Exposure: The park can become quite hot in summer months, with little shade in some areas. Visitors should bring water, sunscreen, and hats during hot weather.

Cycling Etiquette: Since the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail is a shared path for pedestrians, cyclists, and runners, it is important to observe proper trail etiquette: cyclists should yield to pedestrians, signal when passing, and maintain a safe speed.

8. Conclusion

The American River Parkway is an incredible natural resource in Sacramento, offering a range of recreational activities for people of all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy the outdoors, a place to exercise, or an area rich in local history, the parkway has something for everyone.