5.0 hr
Overview
A typical point to start this loop is either at Old Folsom or at the Nimbus Flat day use area. Since the parking is free but just time-limited, the preferred parking/start is at Old Folsom. Start on the paved section first as a spin to get warmed up before you ride the dirt. Inflate your tires higher to roll better on the pavement, then deflate a bit when you reach the Sac State Aquatic Center.<br><br>Get on the paved bike path on the Lake Natoma Crossing Bridge, accessed across the street from Bicycles Plus. Cross the bridge. At the other side of the bridge, turn down the bike trail to your right (on a little paved switchback). Get on the American River Bike Trail and ride west. <br><br>You'll first cross through the Negro Bar Recreation Area. There are water and a restroom here. You can stay on the trail or cross the parking lot and go down to the water where there is a little beach where people swim, kayak, barbecue, and run from the resident geese.<br><br>The trail continues along the water underneath the Rollingwood Bluffs. Watch out for rocks that have fallen from the bluffs. At the end of the bluffs, the trail will climb a hill. Continue on through the Mississippi Bar Conservation Area. <br><br>When you reach the Nimbus Dam ride underneath the Hazel Ave Bridge. The trail will loop around and deposit you on the bridge. Ride across/down the bridge. Keep an eye on your speed and for other path users.<br><br>At the end of the bridge take the paved path to the right (drops down towards the Nimbus fish hatchery.) At the trail intersection, continue to the right, follow the trail under the bridge and around to the Sac State Aquatic Center. <br><br>After you pass the park entrance kiosk look for a dirt trail on the right. This is the beginning of the Lake Natoma Loop dirt. If you had inflated your tires to roll better on the pavement now is the time to let some air out.<br><br>The dirt path will parallel the paved path and cross it here and there. The ride takes you through some trees and along Hwy 50 f
Trail Stats
19.3 km
89 m
58 m
31 m
—
Photos
The view upriver from South Bluff Overlook. At this point you can watch the Sacramento State Aquatic Center practices and competitions as the starting line is usually right below this spot.
The view upriver from South Bluff Overlook. At this point you can watch the Sacramento State Aquatic Center practices and competitions as the starting line is usually right below this spot.
The typical trail surface - smooth decomposed granite. Most of the trail is good for taking kids along and lets them practice "real" mountain biking.
The typical trail surface - smooth decomposed granite. Most of the trail is good for taking kids along and lets them practice "real" mountain biking.
Wild blackberry bushes.
Wild blackberry bushes.
Very pleasant part of the Lake Natoma trail.
Very pleasant part of the Lake Natoma trail.
The trail travels under the bridge for Folsom Blvd.
The trail travels under the bridge for Folsom Blvd.
Somewhere along the trail.
Somewhere along the trail.
306/365 ~ Nimbus Dam #lakenatoma #americanriver
306/365 ~ Nimbus Dam #lakenatoma #americanriver
Railroad tie stairs.
Railroad tie stairs.
Willow Creek bridge.
Willow Creek bridge.
South side of Lake Natoma heading east (counterclockwise)
South side of Lake Natoma heading east (counterclockwise)
The Lake Natoma trail has many little turnouts and stub trails where the state park has placed picnic tables. A perfect place for a picnic with the kids! Always a beautiful view too.
The Lake Natoma trail has many little turnouts and stub trails where the state park has placed picnic tables. A perfect place for a picnic with the kids! Always a beautiful view too.