Folsom Cycling
Folsom, California has nearly 100 miles of scenic bike trails that offer cyclists access to lakes, waterways, and great views. Here are several reasons why you should take your bike to Folsom and explore the trails.
Natural Beauty
It may be hard to keep your eyes on the road when biking along the many miles of trails in Folsom. You will be treated with views of rivers, lakes, wildflowers, pines, oaks, open grasslands, rolling hills, and even far-off views of the Sierra Nevadas mountain range. Spring brings lots of floral beauty along with increased pollen counts.
In addition to the flora, you may experience some of the many creatures that live along the trails, including foxes, river otters, beavers, quail, geese, red-tail hawks, black-tailed deer, and occasionally an eagle or two.
Safety
The planning stages for Folsom’s bike trail system began in 1988. In addition to scenic beauty, the trails provide a very safe place to ride a bicycle. The trail system spans from one side of the city to the other, without intersection with any highly trafficked streets. The trails incorporate safe passages over or under busy roads. One example is the Johnny Cash Overpass bridge, which transports pedestrians and cyclists safely over Folsom Lake Crossing Road. Afterward, continue exploring the trail as it weaves around the grounds of historic Folsom Prison.
Environmentally Friendly Commute
The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, more commonly known as the American River Bike Trail, ends in Old Sacramento’s Discovery Park. Those fit cyclists who live in Folsom and work downtown can take advantage of this alternate commute option. Bicycles are also permitted on light rail trains, resulting in even more commuting options.
Folsom Appreciates Cyclists & Vice Versa
There are over 30 miles of additional bike trails in the works. The City recently turned down a planned golf course so that more land could be available for the trail’s additional mileage. In return for this dedication to the sport, the world-renown AMGEN Tour of California includes the City as one of its tour locations.
Challenges for All Riding Levels
Beginning cyclists may want to start on the Johnny Cash Trail, which spans almost three miles. From there, the challenges to more experienced riders are nearly limitless. Aside from the steep grade of Carpenter Hill, the trail system throughout Folsom is mostly flat, but many riders use it as a jump-off point toward hillier regions such as Auburn, Cool, and El Dorado Hills.
The “Around the Lake” ride is a 50-mile journey that includes three challenging climbs, a couple descents, and finishes with a fast straightaway. The ride includes fantastic views of Folsom Lake.
Off-Road Trails Also Available
The Folsom bike trails are largely multi-use, paved trails enjoyed by road cyclists, but Folsom also draws off-road mountain bikers as well. Access to one such off-road route begins at Folsom Bike, which is along the paved Jedidiah Smith trail. At Beal Point, cyclists will find a winding course, including some short climbs and one very challenging ascent toward the water tower. The descent back to the Granite Bay trail is a steep one.
No Need to Ride Alone
If you are interested in riding with a group, there are a few bike clubs in Folsom, including one with more than 1,000 members called Cycle Folsom. Riding with a group is a great way to make new friends and enjoy some healthy competition. The Cycle Folsom group includes cyclists of all skill levels and welcomes new members.
Below is a YouTube video featuring the opening of the Johnny Cash Trail two years ago.
Folsom Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a personal injury attorney in Folsom, California. If you have sustained injuries that were caused by a negligent driver and you are seeking free and friendly advice, look no further than my law firm. Contact us locally at (916) 921-6400 or from outside the region at (800) 404-5400. If you would rather, I can also be contacted online.
Some of my prior case results and reviews from past clients can be found here:
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/tree-vegetable-sky-clouds-350008/
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