Here are a few favorite adventures to get you started this season
MILDLY RECOMMENDED
SHORT WALK
This two-mile out-and-back journey will take you along an exposed trail past the pond and out to where the river bends. The water is deeper and faster here, so while it’s not the best spot for swimming, the rocky beach feels secluded, and you can set up a picnic and throw rocks. Keep your belongings light - this isn’t the type of trail you want to carry a beach bag and a shade tent.
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2.0 miles, out-and-back
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Park at William B. Pond
5700 Arden Way, Carmichael, CA 95608
$6 at the kiosk, or Parks Annual Pass
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Full sun/partial shade
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Low to medium river flow
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Dirt trails, rocky wash
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Yes, on leash.
PICNIC SPOT
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0.1 mile, directly below the parking lot
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Park at El Manto River Access
2000 El Manto Drive, Rancho Cordova
$6 at the kiosk, or Parks Annual Pass
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Full sun
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Any
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Clay
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Yes, on leash.
This spot can feel like exploring the surface of Mars with its wide red clay banks along the river. Downriver is an eddy great for swimming while the middle flats of the clay banks create a six foot cliff excellent for jumping into deep pools.
LONGER LOOP
This stretch of dirt trail is wide and flat and ideal for walking or running side-by-side with a companion, and is a popular spot for birders. The canopy is high and lush, especially around the bend separating Sunrise and El Manto. Gaze down on the swift-moving water at the bend and all the way back upriver where you can spot Sunrise Blvd in the distance.
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4.0 miles, out-and-back
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Park at Lower Sunrise Recreational Area.
11351 South Bridge St, Gold River, CA 95670
$6 at the kiosk, or Parks Annual Pass
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Partial shade
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Any
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Dirt trails, paved bike path, fire road
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Yes, on leash.