Beautiful Spring Drives in the Sacramento Area

There are many ways to spend a spring day in Sacramento. Some people like to get outdoors and take a nature walk. Others prefer to relax with a picnic. And for others, taking a spring drive is the way to go.

 The greater Sacramento area has varied landscapes that make for scenic drives any time of year, but especially during the spring, when the rolling hillsides are lush and green, the skies are bright blue, and the landscape is blanketed with colorful wildflowers. There are stunning mountain passes, winding country roads, and historic Gold Rush towns all waiting to be explored.

 So, if you’re in the mood for some epic scenery without leaving the comfort of your car, consider one of the following routes for a spring drive you won’t soon forget.

Highway 49 from Auburn to Placerville

Highway 49, known as the Golden Chain Highway, stretches from Sierra County in the north all the way to Madera County in the South. But the stretch from Auburn to Placerville (or vice versa) is arguably the most scenic, and is easily accessible from the Sacramento area. You can begin near the Auburn State Recreation Area and take in views of the North Fork of the American River. Continuing southeast, you’ll pass oak-dotted landscapes and rolling green hills with river views along the way. Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park is peppered with bright orange poppies and purple lupine this time of year. Continuing southward, you’ll hit Coloma, where gold was first discovered. You can learn about mining in the region and cool off with a dip in the river. The highway continues to Placerville, where you can explore historic Main Street or stop for a bite to eat. 

Stop at these listings on your way to Placerville.

River Road in the Sacramento Delta

Only minutes from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Sacramento Delta seems a world away. A drive along the River Road/Highway 160 will take you past farmland, vineyards and orchards, with epic river views along the way. Picking up 160 near Freeport Blvd. and I-5 near Elk Grove, there are two options. One is to cross the green bridge and continue along the Yolo County side of the river, where you’ll find the Clarksburg wine growing region, featuring numerous wineries, some with water views. It’s not a bad thing to get lost here, as the many farm roads and sloughs crisscross the landscape, making for awesome scenery, not to mention remarkable sunsets. 

Sticking to the Sacramento County side, you’ll have the same great scenery — boats making their way up the river, people fishing alongside the banks, rolling hills covered in vineyards. Scribner Bend Vineyards makes a great pit-stop, offering wine tasting and wood-fired pizzas. Continuing along, you’ll come to the town of Hood. Nearby is the Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, which has walking paths, guided docent walks, and guided paddle tours. Further down the River Road is the historic town of Locke, a National Historic Landmark depicting the history of Chinese settlers in the area. You can explore the original buildings, browse the museums, and grab a bite to eat before turning around to head home.

Planning a drive this weekend? Stop at these Open Houses on the way! 

Capay Valley in Yolo County

One of the most scenic areas in the greater Sacramento area in spring is the beautiful Capay Valley. Located west of Woodland, the valley, which is accessed via Highway 16, is known for its burst of blossoms during the spring, especially its almond blossoms. Bright green hillsides, neat rows of vineyards, and the mellow Dunnigan Hills in the background add to the rural vibe. Along the way are family-run farms and wineries, including Grindstone Wines, Taber Ranch Vineyards, and Seka Hills (which also offers tastes of its estate-grown olive oil). There are also a few spots you can stop to pick your own flowers, including the Park Winters Flower Farm, which serves small bites in its open-air pavilion. If you need to get out and stretch your legs, you can stop at the Cache Creek Canyon Regional Park at the northern end of Highway 16, which has hiking trails and river access.

Salmon Falls Road Near El Dorado Hills

One of the best places to spot wildflowers in the greater Sacramento area is Folsom Lake, and one of the best ways to access Folsom Lake is via Salmon Falls Road in El Dorado Hills. You can pick up Salmon Falls Road via El Dorado Hills Blvd. off Highway 50. At the intersection of Green Valley Road, consider a detour to Brown’s Ravine, a lakeside recreation area and marina known for the purple lupines that erupt on its banks in spring. Further up Salmon Falls Road, you can also access the lake via the Monte Vista Trail or the Old Salmon Falls Assembly Area. 

Continuing north, you’ll pass pastoral country estates and horse ranches until you come to the Salmon Falls Bridge, which stretches across the South Fork of the American River. There are numerous trailheads and water access points here too. The road continues north, gently winding past oak forests and open grasslands until it reaches the town of Pilot Hill. Here, you can access Rattlesnake Bar Road, which will take you directly back to the lake. Or you can hop on Highway 49 north and head into Auburn.

Fall in love with El Dorado Hills! 

 Tips on Enjoying a Spring Drive

•  Pick the right time to go. Keep your eye on peak wildflower season to make sure you have the best views. Most blooms peak between March and May.
• Fuel up (or charge up) before heading out. You don’t want to get stuck in a rural area, which may not have cell service to call for help.
• Expect changing weather. Spring weather means it can be hot one day and rainy the next, so be sure to pack a rain jacket and sunscreen.
• Don’t stick to a schedule. For the most enjoyable drive, go with the flow. Build in time to stop for photos, have a picnic, or browse a roadside farm stand.
• Consider midweek. If you’re searching for quieter roads and fewer people, consider taking a drive midweek, if possible. Otherwise, try to head out early on a weekend.