Day Hikes Near Sacramento CA?

[Snowden]

Hey folks,

Heading to Sacramento for a conference in May. I am toying with the idea of hanging around an extra day or two to do some hiking.

Any recommendations for nice day hikes with an hour or two drive from the city?

Suggestions welcome!

 

[thenugsmoustache]

There are a lot of nice hikes up in the Grass Valley/ Nevada City area about an hour and a half or so from Sacramento. I'd check out Independence Trail for sure. Basically anywhere along the South fork of the Yuba River, Bridgeport, Edward's Crossing, and Purdon to name a few. The water may be a little chilly in May but there is some awesome swimming holes in these areas as well.

 

[BentBrewer]

The Auburn State Recreation area has a whole lot of trails. Pick up a gold pan, it's supposed to be a good year.
Coloma State Park is 20 miles or so away from Auburn, if you want to see where the gold rush started.
Hidden Falls is supposed to be a great spot, and here's an article from the local paper listing 7 hiking spots in the area.

Have fun, stop by for a beer.

 

[Mackster]

Stevens trail on the north fork of the American River
Falcons crest on the south side of Folsom Lake
Ride a bike up the American river bike trail, beautiful in spring

Many of the great hikes are closer to Lake Tahoe, but these are a bit over your two hour drive requirement.
Big Meadow off hwy 89. (easier hike and if the snow melts in time great wildflowers)
Horsetail Falls of hwy 50. (this will be quite impressive in May, but is considered strenuous)