Best Hiking Trails Around Rancho Cordova
Get in touch with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.
Whether you love long, leisurely walks along the river or want to work up a sweat, Rancho Cordova has plenty of paths and trails to enjoy. Here's a roundup of our favorites!
Popular Rancho Cordova Walking Trails
Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail
Recognized as a national trail in 1974, Jedidiah Smith Memorial Trail is a 32-mile stretch of paved path that runs the length of the American River Parkway from old Sacramento to Folsom. Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, cycling, inline skating, jogging and strolling as you take in the beautiful scenery of the American River. You can access this trail at several locations, including Hagan Community Park, Upper/Lower Sunrise River Access, and William B. Pond. Small parking fees apply.
Travel Tip: Bring a picnic with you to enjoy under the shade trees.
Hagan Community Park
Hagan Community Park is a beloved park known for its great playgrounds, community pools, and animal barn. Enjoy a winding walking trail under a shady canopy of trees to take things at your own pace. The park's paved trails also lead directly to the American River Parkway's Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail. Dog-friendly travelers can take Fido to the Hagan Community Dog Park, which features grassy lawns with zones for small, medium, and large dogs.
Travel Tip: Hagan Community Park is directly across the street from Soil Born Farms, where you can shop for fresh produce, enjoy an organic brunch, or find artisanal kitchen goods on Saturdays.
River Bend Park
River Bend Park is one of Sacramento County's oldest parks. It offers walking, bike, and horse trails along the American River and is open year-round, sunrise to sunset. Many families like to bring camping chairs, canopy pop-ups, and snacks to enjoy an outdoor picnic. Small parking fees apply.
Travel Tip: If you plan to get in the water, make sure you read up on Rancho Cordova Water Safety.
Moderate Rancho Cordova Hikes
Effie Yeaw Nature Center
Close to Rancho Cordova, Effie Yeaw Nature Center is an award-winning environmental and cultural education center offering nearly 2 miles of trail perfect for wildlife sightings and birdwatching. Enjoy the wildflowers as you wind your way toward the river. Dogs are not allowed (except for registered service animals) and swimming is not recommended in this portion of the river, as the current is very strong.
Travel Tip: Effie Yeaw's Nature Center Building features interesting exhibits, ecological information, live animals, and a gift store.
Lake Natoma American River Trail
If you’re up for a challenge, the Lake Natoma American River Trail offers a 11.5-mile loop and an elevation gain of 433 feet. The whole trail takes about 4.5 hours to complete. While you're hiking, look out for wildlife, kayakers paddling at the Sacramento State Aquatic Center, and more. The parking fee is small and the views are worth it.
Travel Tip: After your hike, explore nearby Nimbus Fish Hatchery to learn about the salmon life cycle.
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