4.7
(30)
477
riders
16
rides
Mountain biking around Folsom offers routes through diverse landscapes, characterized by the American River, Folsom Lake, and Lake Natoma. The area features a mix of riparian zones, open spaces, and rolling terrain, providing varied riding experiences. Trails often follow the contours of the waterways, offering scenic views and access to natural areas. The region's geography supports both leisurely rides and more challenging routes with moderate elevation changes.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
36
riders
37.1km
02:37
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
riders
49.2km
03:08
370m
360m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
17
riders
30.3km
01:44
100m
100m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lake Natoma is a freshwater reservoir created by the Nimbus Dam. This is a particularly good spot to stop and catch a good photo opportunity with the clear waters of the lake behind you.
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The American River along this area is dammed up and widened to form the longitudinal Lake Natoma. The Trail follows on both sides. The Western side seems less used by bikers and can be better for running, with great views across the water.
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The open air museum can be crossed free of charge. Trails also run on both sides, along Sutter as well as Leidesdorff Streets.
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Great views of Lake Natoma from the American River Bike Trail. The trail is paved and this section follows along the banks of the lake, so there are multiple spots that give you these amazing views.
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Folsom Historic District is a small area of town that is representative of some of the cultural history of Folsom, dating back to the 1850s. This spot has hundreds of businesses and tons of historical landmarks discussing gold prospectors, the Pony Express, and other notable notches on the city's timeline.
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Well-preserved and lovingly restored railway depot of the original Folsom station, and the cool original turnaround. It had a prime location along the railway line climbing across the Sierra Nevada via Donner Pass. Today it hosts a visitor center, also with information about the adjoining museum.
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Granite Bay is probably the most popular location along the shores of Folsom Lake. It includes a sandy beach and swimming opportunities in the summer, multiple picnic areas and many more amenities. Furthermore, it is a great spot to enjoy a little ride with great views of the lake.
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There are 17 mountain bike routes around Folsom featured on komoot, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 9 easy routes and 8 moderate routes, catering to various skill levels.
Yes, Folsom offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners. An excellent option is the Bridge & River Viewpoint β Folsom Historic Truss Bridge loop from Historic Folsom, which is 19.3 km long and takes about 1 hour 16 minutes to complete. Another easy route is the Lake Natoma β Nimbus Dam loop from Historic Folsom, covering 30.3 km in about 1 hour 43 minutes.
The Folsom area generally offers good mountain biking conditions year-round, but spring and fall are often considered ideal. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery is vibrant. Summers can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended, while winters are typically mild with occasional rain, which can affect trail conditions.
Many trails in Folsom offer scenic views, particularly those along the American River, Folsom Lake, and Lake Natoma. The Bridge & River Viewpoint β Folsom Historic Truss Bridge loop from Historic Folsom provides excellent views of the historic truss bridge and the river. For extensive lakeside riding and views of Folsom Dam, consider the West Beach of Folsom Lake β Folsom Dam loop from Oak Avenue Whistlestop.
Yes, Folsom has numerous loop trails for mountain biking. All the routes highlighted in this guide are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Views of Folsom Lake β Granite Bay loop from Historic Folsom and the Folsom Historic Truss Bridge β Bridge & River Viewpoint loop from Hampton.
Mountain bike trails in Folsom vary in length. Easy routes can be around 19 km, taking about 1 hour 15 minutes, while moderate routes can extend up to 48 km, requiring around 3 hours to complete. The average distance for routes in the area is approximately 29 km.
The mountain biking experience in Folsom is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 39 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the scenic views along Folsom Lake, Lake Natoma, and the American River, and the well-maintained trails suitable for various skill levels.
While Folsom offers a great variety of trails, the routes featured in this guide are categorized as either easy or moderate. There are currently no routes classified as difficult, making the area more suitable for beginners to experienced intermediate riders.
Many trails in Folsom pass by significant landmarks. You can ride past the historic Folsom Historic Truss Bridge, enjoy views of Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma, and see the impressive Folsom Dam and Nimbus Dam. The Jedidiah Smith Memorial Trail (American River Bike Trail) is also a prominent feature in the area.
Yes, Folsom has several easy and relatively flat trails that are well-suited for family mountain biking. Routes along Lake Natoma and sections of the American River Parkway offer paved or well-maintained dirt paths, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for riders of all ages and skill levels.
Many trailheads and access points around Folsom Lake, Lake Natoma, and the American River Parkway offer designated parking areas. Popular starting points like Historic Folsom and various Folsom Lake State Recreation Area entrances typically have parking available, though some may require a day-use fee.
Many multi-use trails in the Folsom area, particularly those within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area and along the American River, are dog-friendly. However, dogs are generally required to be on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, as rules can vary by section or park.


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