American River Parkway
Strolling along the American River
The American River begins with headwaters high in the Sierra Nevadas. As it flows toward the ocean, it passes through Folsom to the Sacramento River and, ultimately, San Francisco Bay. The river has played an important role in the area’s history as gold was first discovered on along its banks in 1848, which ignited the Gold Rush.
Today the riches of the American River are its ability to both excite and relax those who enjoy the waterway. Every year, thousands of visitors come to enjoy white water rafting, kayaking, and stroll along the scenic views from the trails that wind along the river.
What better way to get back to nature – so to speak – and head out to enjoy a family outing along the trails of the American River Parkway.
Folsom’s sparkling Spring and Summer weather is the perfect time to enjoy the fresh air, miles of paved easy trails and catch a glimpse of area wildlife. Those interested in bird watching might run into a local birding group who helps count and identify different native species this time of year. This area is a welcome haven for many different winged creatures from ducks and Canadian geese to red-headed woodpeckers and various birds of prey including the red-tailed hawk. Other wildlife spotted along the trails often includes white-tailed deer, raccoons, squirrels and coyotes.
There are short trails for families which leave from Historic Folsom to meander along Lake Natoma and include interesting historic sites to be experienced such as the original railroad truss bridge and the historic Folsom Powerhouse. Near the powerhouse and along the banks of the lake, there are grinding rocks used by the original native American residents of this area, the Maidu.
For those looking to powerwalk their way to fitness, the trail system extends from Historic Folsom to the Beal’s Point area of Folsom Lake looking east and 26 miles away to downtown Sacramento going west. Along the way, there are plenty of stops to be made to view the natural estuary of Willow Creek or watch the competitive rowers from the California State University Sacramento Aquatic Center practice their skill and speed on Lake Natoma.
Further west on the trail is the Nimbus Fish Hatchery which is open to visitors daily to offer an education on the life of the Pacific salmon and steelhead trout. There is a fish ladder open yearly during the late fall for the salmon and steelhead migration. If the fish aren’t jumping, there’s always an opportunity to view the nursery tanks of fish and tour the facility. Plus, visitors can feed the fish!
Several of Folsom’s hotels are within walking distance of these trails so make a weekend of it and enjoy the winter scenery of the American River Parkway.
American River Water Education Center
American River Water Education Center
It’s more than just water under the bridge, in the river or behind a dam. It’s an important aspect of life which is reflected in the American River Water Education Center’s motto, “Every Drop Counts.”
To learn more about the history and headwaters of the American River Watershed, take a stroll through the center's interactive exhibits and demonstration areas. The center features water-efficient garden ideas, native species of plants and examples of low water use in landscaping.
The center is located at 7794 Folsom Dam Road and is open on Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on Saturday and Sunday. Group tours can be arranged by calling (916) 989-7100.