Lower Sunrise, American River Parkway

Date: Friday, May 22, 2026, at 9 am.

Description: Meet at Lower Sunrise for a walk westward towards El Manto along the bluff above the American River. This is one of the shadier walks along the parkway.  This will be a loop downriver near the river and loop back closer to the bike path. The walk will be about 3.0 miles, almost all level and 3/4 of the walk will be in shade

Leader: Nancy Dagle, nancykayaker@att.net

What to bring: Water, hat, snack, walking stick might be useful and warm or cold weather protection. In some locations there is a risk of exposure to poison oak-be on the lookout!

Amenities on-site: There are rest facilities at the parking area and we’ll pass others along the walk.

Waiver: sign upon arrival

*We try to start walking promptly at start time.

Meet up spot: Meet near the PURPLE circle with a “P” in the center on this map.

Parking info: Parking is $7 or use an Annual Parks Passport.

The $70 Parks Passport supports your County Parks system. If you are over 65 there is also a special $35 Senior Pass.  More Pass information is on-line.

Directions from downtown Sacramento:

Meet near the PURPLE circle with a “P” in the center on this map or use the directions below.

• Travel east on Highway 50 to Sunrise Blvd exit 18.
• North on Sunrise Boulevard.
• After passing Gold Country Road, turn right on South Bridge Street.
• Drive past American River Raft Rentals and the fenced raft parking area into the Parkway passing the Entrance Kiosk.
• Even if no one is working at the Entrance Kiosk, be sure to self-register your vehicle ($7) unless you have a Parks Annual Pass.
• Turn left at the Stop sign.
• You’ll drive under Sunrise Blvd, stop at a stop sign for the bike trail, and then find us in the large parking area near the restrooms.

For those living north of the American River, it might be quicker to park at Sacramento Bar and take the 3-minute walk across the bike and pedestrian bridge to Lower Sunrise.