The Best Scenic Bike Routes for Every Skill Level

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to biking, spring is the best time of year to get out there and explore on two wheels. The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and the landscape is lush and green — all of which make a stunning backdrop for bike rides in the Sacramento area.

May is an especially good time to take a bike ride because it’s National Bike Month. Established in 1956, the month celebrates the many benefits of cycling and encourages everyone to give it a try. Not only is cycling great exercise, but it’s also an eco-friendly way of getting around. Plus, it leads to safer streets, connected communities, and improved mental health.

Luckily, the greater Sacramento area is a bike-friendly place to live and play. For starters, it’s home to the American River Bike Trail, otherwise known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, a multi-use trail that stretches along the river from Old Sacramento to Folsom. It’s designed for all users, from beginners to advanced, as well as walkers, joggers, and equestrians. You can access the trail from numerous parks along the American River Parkway, which also serve as stopping points for a rest and refresh.

The greater Sacramento area is also home to the city of Davis, the Bicycle Capital of America. Davis has more than 100 miles of bike paths and lanes, plus a bike-friendly infrastructure that includes designated bike parking and bike-friendly intersections and roundabouts. Davis also has a renowned trail circling the city that takes riders through greenbelts and local parks.  

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But the greater Sacramento area has plenty of other places to ride as well. There are mellow trails for those just learning, intermediate trails for more experienced riders, and challenging routes for those looking to get the heart rate up and the blood pumping. Following are some of our top picks.

Easy Bike Routes Near Sacramento for Beginners

Willow Creek Trail | Folsom

At under two miles, this short, easy trail in Folsom is a good choice for new riders, especially children. It winds through the woods alongside the creek, which eventually feeds into the American River. There is also access to the American River Bike Trail. There are bridges, wildflowers, and plenty of shade for warm spring afternoons.

UC Davis Arboretum Trail | Davis

Located in Davis, this mellow trail extends for 3.6 miles along Putah Creek. Most of it is flat and wide, ideal for families looking for a mellow stroll in nature. But best of all is the scenery. Being in an arboretum, it winds past gardens that include a redwood grove, native plants, and demonstration gardens showcasing flora from across the globe. In spring, it’s awash with blooming trees, plants, and flowers, making for an exceptional outing.

Sacramento River Parkway Trail | Sacramento

This out-and-back trail covers about 9.5 miles, but new riders can do as little or as much as they’re comfortable with. It’s a paved trail with smooth terrain, beginning in the Land Park area and extending along the Sacramento River past Old Sacramento to Discovery Park. The reward is river views along the way, as well as a rest stop in Old Sac to explore the local shops and have a bite to eat.

Intermediate Bike Routes in the Sacramento Area

Miner’s Ravine Trail | Roseville

Clocking in at just over six miles, this paved trail winds through a scenic ravine dotted with oak trees, sprawling grasslands that are a bright green in spring, and riparian habitat. Seasonal wildflowers and creek-side views make it a good choice for those who need a dose of nature. It’s considered an intermediate trail due to its slight elevation gain up and over rolling hillsides.

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Union Valley Reservoir Trail | Kyburz

Connecting the campground at one of the most scenic (and popular) lakes in the Crystal Basin Recreation Area east of Placerville, this bike trail offers stunning water views as it winds through the forest. It crosses a few bridges and has several elevations, making it best for those looking for a bit of a workout.

El Dorado Trail | El Dorado County

This series of interconnected trails (some paved, some not) runs through various parts of El Dorado County. Scenery ranges from open grasslands (with spring wildflowers!) to forested mountains, all with great foothills views. The most popular section is between Placerville and Camino, with a gradual elevation gain.

Bike Routes Near Sacramento for Advanced Riders

South River Road | Clarksburg

Stretching from West Sacramento to Clarksburg in Yolo County, this bike route is considered challenging due to its length and because it runs alongside a narrow levee road that can be windy at times. However, the payoff is worth it: rolling vineyards, river views, orchards, and rustic farmland. You can even stop at one of the many wineries in the Clarksburg area for a re-fuel before heading back.

Capay Valley | Yolo County

A ride through the bucolic Capay Valley is like no other, especially in spring when the hills are green and the wildflowers are popping! This challenging ride along backroads takes you past orchards, farms, and fields of sunflowers — all with views of the hills in the background. You can stop at the Roadside Bar & Grill in Capay for a rest and refuel and do as much or as little as you like.

American River Bike Trail Etiquette

• Walkers and joggers must stay on the left “soft” shoulder, facing traffic.
• Bike riders and in-line skaters should stay on the paved path, right of the yellow line.
• A 15-mph speed limit is enforced.
• Passing on the paved path should only be done on the left, with a verbal warning, like “on your left.”
• Horses are not allowed on the paved trail surface except at trail crossings and bridges. Bike riders must yield to horses.