Day Trips to Take From Sacramento

Midway between San Francisco and the Sierra Nevada is Sacramento, the historic capital of California. Developed during the region's brief but dynamic time of transformation from farmlands to boom towns, the city combines a modern metropolis with a living time capsule of the Gold Rush era. The region surrounding Sacramento -- the Gold Country -- is its bucolic counterpart, offering many historic and natural attractions worthy of a day trip outside the city.

Discover California's Gold at Sutter’s Mill

• Pioneer John Sutter’s namesake sawmill on the south fork of the American River is well known as the place where gold was first discovered in California. Today, Sutter’s land in the Coloma Valley, about 40 miles east of Sacramento, is a State Historic Park named for James Marshall, the man who made the momentous discovery in 1848. The park features the Gold Discovery Museum, a visitor center and a replica of the original mill, as well as 20 original buildings. Visitors can take guided walking tours, learn how to pan for gold, and hike on oak-shaded trails overlooking the scenic river canyon. On the second Saturday of every month, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park hosts Living History Days, during which docents in period garb conduct demonstrations of nostalgic activities like Dutch oven cooking, candle dipping and rope making.

A Whitewater Thrill Ride

• The American, Stanislaus, Tuolumne and Merced rivers that crisscross the foothills of the beautiful Sierra Nevada east of Sacramento are the prime destination for whitewater rafting in California. The South Fork of the American River, easily within a day trip's distance of Sacramento, has stretches ideal for families, beginners and those who prefer a more sedate adventure. The North Fork of the American River is suited to experienced thrill-seekers, offering some of the most challenging whitewater rapids in California. Dozens of whitewater tour operators offer half- and one-day excursions in the region. Notable among them is O.A.R.S., named "Best River and Sea Outfitter on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure magazine.
• A Taste of El Dorado Wine Country

• More than 200 wineries dot the countryside surrounding Sacramento, comprising five distinct wine regions. Oenophiles and casual wine drinkers enjoy exploring the vineyards of El Dorado County, where tasting rooms at approximately 50 wineries welcome visitors to sample their various wines. Some offer guided tours of their facilities. Learn about the rich history of viticulture in the region, which developed concurrently with the Gold Rush, making El Dorado County one of California's largest wine producers by 1870.

Visit Folsom

• Folsom is best known for its notorious prison, but the town's location on the American River Parkway and proximity to two lakes makes it a surprisingly attractive destination, in particular for outdoor recreation. Hire bikes and explore a section of the 32-mile American River Bike Trail, go horseback riding on lakeside trails or fish for trout, catfish, bass and kokanee salmon. This inland destination even offers opportunities for scuba diving in Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma. On dry land, visit the Folsom Prison Museum and learn about Johnny Cash's famous live performance for its prisoners. Folsom Zoo and Sanctuary, located in Folsom City Park, is a top attraction for families, as is the miniature, steam-powered Folsom Valley Railway next to the zoo.