A Fan of Folsom

I’m a fan of Folsom. It’s one of the best planned cities in California with many beautifully landscaped boulevards, expressways and bike and foot paths that wind throughout the town. Most scenic of them is the 32-mile Humbug-Willow Creek Trail.

This multi-use recreational trail lies within a nature corridor that spans Folsom. Its paved path is separated from traffic, providing for safe exercise with many entertaining distractions along the route. The Humbug-Willow Creek Trail bisects Folsom and is not a direct way to get from point A to point B, but it is the most scenic and has blocks of bright color.

For commuters, Folsom has an extensive network of Class I bike lanes beside all major streets that were included in the city’s modern design, from conception. Even some historic sections of gold rush-era Folsom have added bike lanes.

And, for recreational cyclists, there’s the Johnny Cash Trail, a 6.3-mile scenic loop from historic downtown Folsom, around Folsom Prison to Folsom Dam and back across the American River by way of a scenic steel truss bridge. Major sculptures are planned to be installed along the length of this art trail.

Then, of course, there’s the American River Parkway a 32-mile, heavily-trafficked, paved multi-use trail that parallels the river from Old Sacramento to Folsom Lake. It is considered to be one of the most popularly used bike trails in America. The Lake Natoma Loop section of the trail passes numerous historic sites, a world-renown rowing area, kayak launching ramps and has great views, a nesting pair of bald eagles and varied foliage along its length.

Despite their many scenic qualities, there is not a lot of fall color along these recreational routes, though Frémont cottonwood, California grape, willows and several exotic species provide bright spots.

• 

• 

• 

As for Folsom’s boulevards and neighborhoods, they are at peak with lots of vibrant trees.

• Folsom (220′) – Peak (75-100%) GO NOW!