River Shore Access

The Guy West Bridge – American River Bike Trail loop from Sacramento Valley Station offers a delightful escape into nature, predominantly following paved multi-use paths along the American River. You'll pedal through a mix of parks, wooded areas, and open grassy stretches, enjoying picturesque riverside views and the chance to spot local wildlife. The most notable feature is the iconic Guy West Bridge, a suspension bridge painted in international orange, connecting you across the river and providing a convenient access point to various parts of the trail.

This route is a moderate 25.9-mile (41.7 km) ride with a gentle 252 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. It's well-suited for all skill levels, offering a recreational cycling experience rather than a technical mountain biking challenge. The trail is well-maintained and largely flat, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed outing.

The American River Bike Trail, also known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, is a vital green corridor through Sacramento, accessible year-round. You'll find numerous access points, restrooms, picnic areas, and drinking water stations along the way, ensuring a comfortable journey. While you can ride a mountain bike here, it's best approached as a scenic, easy-to-moderate paved or mixed-surface ride, perfect for those seeking a refreshing break from the city.

The American River Bike Trail – Guy West Bridge loop from 59th Street offers a refreshing escape into nature, quickly allowing you to leave the urban bustle behind. This primarily paved pathway follows the American River, providing picturesque riverside vistas as it winds through parks, wooded areas, and open grassy stretches. You'll enjoy a smooth ride with minimal elevation change, making it a great option for a relaxed outing where the focus is on the scenic journey rather than technical challenges. The iconic Guy West Bridge, designed to resemble the Golden Gate Bridge, is a prominent feature and offers excellent views of the river. While listed for mountain biking, the main trail is best suited for those looking for a long, easy ride on a paved surface.

This 23.9-mile (38.4 km) moderate route, with a gentle 274 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 12 minutes to complete. You'll find numerous access points along the trail, often within riverside parks, which provide convenient amenities like parking, restrooms, and water fountains. No permits are required for this section, but be mindful that park rangers strictly enforce rules against riding off the paved trail in certain areas. This trail is popular year-round, but spring and fall offer ideal weather conditions.

The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, of which this loop is a part, is one of the longest paved purpose-built bike trails in the country, stretching 32 miles from Discovery Park to Folsom Lake. This particular segment around the Guy West Bridge and 59th Street is known for its accessibility and family-friendly nature, making it a popular choice for various activities beyond cycling, including jogging and walking. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the American River Parkway without venturing too far from Sacramento.