Nimbus Dam – Lake Natoma loop from Historic Folsom

Mountain biking trails

Nimbus Dam – Lake Natoma loop from Historic Folsom

Moderate

4.5

(8248)

12,346

riders

Nimbus Dam – Lake Natoma loop from Historic Folsom

02:18

43.1km

150m

Mountain biking

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: September 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

1.08 km

Bridge & River Viewpoint

Highlight • Viewpoint

At this viewpoint, you get an up-close view of the Rainbow Bridge that spans over the American River. You also enjoy great views of the historic truss bridge. It's a perfect place to stop and take a break.

Tip by

3.99 km

View of Lake Natoma

Highlight • Viewpoint

Great views of Lake Natoma from the American River Bike Trail. The trail is paved and this section follows along the banks of the lake, so there are multiple spots that give you these amazing views.

Tip by

6.94 km

Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

Highlight • Lake

This is a section of the large Folsom Lake State Recreation Area that surrounds the Lake Natoma and Folsom Lake areas of Sacramento. In this section, there are a network …

Tip by

7.77 km

Aurora Forest

Forest

11.5 km

Frank F. Cirilli Recreation Area – American River Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

Nice stop along the American River Bike Trail, offering picnic tables on the levee.

Tip by

21.5 km

American River

Highlight (Segment) • River

This paved trail winds between Old Sacramento and Folsom — 32 miles in all — linking you up with lots of parks along the way. Plus some gorgeous views of the river it more or less parallels!

Tip by

35.2 km

Nimbus Dam

Highlight • Structure

Nimbus Dam is a hydroelectric dam located along the American River in Sacramento. It's 87 feet tall and spans 1,093 feet wide and creates Lake Natoma reservoir.

Tip by

37.9 km

Lake Natoma

Highlight • Lake

Lake Natoma is a freshwater reservoir created by the Nimbus Dam. This is a particularly good spot to stop and catch a good photo opportunity with the clear waters of the lake behind you.

Tip by

41.1 km

Lake Natoma

Highlight • Lake

Lake Natama was created by the Nimbus Dam that crosses over the American River. It's a great location for running as you can circle the entirety of the lake on …

Tip by

43.1 km

End point

Train Station

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types