Outdoor activity in Sacramento can be relaxing and rejuvenating. With more than 270 days of sunshine, Sacramento is the perfect spot to get out and enjoy the California lifestyle. 

American River Parkway  The American River Parkway takes you from the Old Sacramento Waterfront into the city of Folsom. The parkway meanders through parks and natural habitats as it follows the American River on a paved, wide two-lane roadway. It’s perfect for bike riding, jogging or a walk among the natural habitat. 

Floating in the River  This Sacramento tradition is how locals cool off during our hot summer days. Many people start at Sunrise Recreation Area where the water level is low and less prone to fast river flow. But life jackets are strongly encouraged. Rafts, kayaks or innertubes are suited for this part of the river. Then you can dry off on the riverbanks or in the park settings.

Paddle Boarding on the Lake  The Sacramento region offers several areas where you can stand up paddle board. These include Lake Natoma and Folsom Lake, which offers four areas where you can launch paddle boards or kayaks.  

Self-Guided Walking Mural Tour  Sacramento is home to hundreds of murals. In 2017, the Wide Open Walls mural festival spawned a proliferation of murals downtown, Midtown and throughout the city, and it's grown every year since, with more than 800 now ready to be discovered. Create your own walking tour here

Capitol Park This 40-acre park is an oasis in the city’s downtown core. Surrounding the State Capitol are trees and flowers from all over the world, memorials and tributes, and the spectacular International World Peace Rose Garden featuring 650 roses of 150-plus varieties. Capitol Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll and a picnic (with takeout food from one of the many nearby restaurants) on the grounds. 

Learn more about great hiking trails and the lesser-known gem that is Camp Pollock – a free family spot in nature within sight of downtown Sacramento – with Amy Rodrigues of the Sacramento Valley Conservancy on the Visit Sacramento Podcast.

Listen to "Sacramento Valley Conservancy's Amy Rodrigues on Preserving & Visiting the Region's Undeveloped Land" on Spreaker.