The best road cycling routes around Sacramento

There are over 80 road cycling routes around Sacramento, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 4000 times.

Sacramento's road cycling routes primarily feature flat river parkways and paved multi-use trails, especially along the American and Sacramento Rivers. For those seeking more challenge, the landscape transitions to rolling hills in the Sierra foothills, offering varied elevation and climbs.

Sacramento boasts a favorable climate with over 250 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for road cycling for much of the year. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures, though many routes are enjoyable in mild winter conditions and early mornings during summer.

The road cycling routes in Sacramento are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 160 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of trails, scenic riverside views, and the diverse options available from flat, leisurely rides to more challenging climbs in the foothills.

Yes, the American River Parkway, also known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, is a world-class, 32-mile paved multi-use trail offering scenic riverside views and flat terrain. Another popular option is the Sacramento River Parkway, a 37.7-mile loop with views of the Sacramento River and Tower Bridge.

For those seeking more challenging rides with climbs, areas beyond the immediate river parkways, such as the Sierra foothills, offer hilly terrain. Routes like "WP Beatty, Serrano, Double Shot/Chocolate Fish" provide more elevation gain. The Auburn State Recreation Area also features intermediate and challenging trails with sweeping views of foothill gorges.

Absolutely. Sacramento's location at the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers provides abundant opportunities for waterside cycling. The Lake Natoma Trail is a paved, six-mile route along the southern shores of Lake Natoma, offering pleasant rides with views over the water. Folsom Lake also provides extensive biking trails with scenic views.

Yes, several circular routes are popular in the Sacramento area. The Sacramento River Parkway offers a 37.7-mile loop, and the Lake Natoma Loop is an 11-mile route that passes through a wetland area called the Mississippi Bar.

Many of Sacramento's paved multi-use trails, particularly the flat sections of the American River Parkway and the Lake Natoma Trail, are suitable for families. These trails often have frequent access points, restrooms, and water fountains, making them ideal for leisurely rides with children.

Sacramento's routes offer diverse scenery, including the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers, riparian environments, oak woodlands, and grasslands. You can also spot landmarks like the Tower Bridge and Old Sacramento Waterfront. For specific points of interest, consider exploring highlights such as View from the Rua Augusta Arch or Santa Justa Lift.

Yes, Sacramento features numerous urban greenways and bike paths, including the Yolo Causeway Bike Path, Two Rivers Trail, and Clarksburg Branch Line Trail. The city has also expanded its network of bike lanes, including green-painted bicycling zones on Capitol Mall, providing diverse options for urban cyclists.

Many of the major trails, such as the American River Parkway, have frequent access points with parking available. For specific details on parking and public transport options for individual trails, it's recommended to check local city or park service websites, or consult the komoot tour details for specific routes.

Yes, especially along popular routes like the American River Parkway, you'll find frequent access points that may lead to nearby amenities such as restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas. Some routes also pass through or near urban areas where cafes, pubs, and other services are available.