More than 34 miles of developed biking, hiking and pedestrian trails guide patrons past the historic downtown of Folsom -- along creeks, by a salmon hatchery and up to the heights of a bird refuge. Folsom’s planned parkway system is full of wide, mostly asphalt parkways, luring solo adventurers, families looking for weekend nature walks and commuters embracing Class 1 biking and pedestrian trails.
American River Parkway
- The American River Parkway, also known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, covers more than 30 miles and hugs the American River as it runs from Old Sacramento to Folsom Dam. More than 5 million people use the Parkway each year, enjoying its numerous parks, beaches and picnic areas, as well as the natural beauty of the trek. The two-lane trail has few street crossings, and water fountains and restrooms area available along the route. It is a mixed-use trail, welcoming pedestrians as well as cyclists, in-line skaters and equestrians. The parkway passes a number of historic sites, such as the original railroad truss bridge and the Folsom Powerhouse. In the fall, the Nimbus Fish Hatchery is a particularly popular attraction. Just off the parkway, visitors feed fish in nursery tanks, and in mid-October, patrons enjoy the sights and sounds of the annual American River Salmon Festival hosted at the hatchery.
Folsom Parkway Rail-Trail
- The Folsom Parkway Rail-Trail keeps pace with Folsom Boulevard and the American River for approximately 5 miles and connects the business centers and light rail facilities to the multi-use trails that run throughout the area. The trail begins at Sutter Street and briefly melds with Oakdale Street before becoming an independent parkway again. After crossing the bridge over Willow Creek, the trail ends at the Iron Point light rail parking lot. Because the parkway connects with commercial centers, street crossings are numerous along this corridor. Be prepared to stop. The trail offers easy access and is dog-friendly.
Oak Parkway Trail
- The 2.2-mile Oak Parkway Trail connects the eastern and western sections of Folsom. Beginning at Blue Ravine Road, the parkway runs through largely residential areas with a mid-point stop at BT Collins Park. Picnic tables, barbecue grills and two playgrounds provide an inviting spot to relax and rejuvenate before heading back to the trail, which ends at Natoma Street. The route is a popular one for those looking for some light exercise as they cross the rolling hills. Commuters also take this Class 1 bike and walking trail to work.
Humbug-Willow Creek Trail
- The Humbug-Willow Creek Trail runs over 16 miles and has the distinction of being the most extensive set of walking and biking trails in the county. In places, the trail follows the Humbug and Willow Creeks. While the trail can be accessed from a number of different points, the traditional trailhead can be found on East Natoma Street by The Parkway Shopping Center. Along the course visitors pass creeks, parkland, picnic areas, ponds, shady oaks, wetlands and a recreation center before the trail ends on Folsom Boulevard.
