Sacramento River Trail
Sacramento River National Recreation Trail
The Sacramento River Trail is Redding’s signature 17.4-mile path along the Sacramento River. Paved, scenic, and full of life, it’s the crown jewel of California’s Trail Capital. Recognized by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy as a Hall of Fame trail, it’s a destination in its own right. Professional runner Sara Hall has logged countless miles here and calls it her “favorite bike path in the world” for its perfect surface and stunning scenery. Read our interview with Sara to see why this trail stands out.
HIT THE TRAIL
Whether you’re looking for a sunrise jog, a family stroll, or a long bike ride, the Sacramento River Trail has a route for you.
Sacramento River Trail in One Day
Short on time? Start at the Sundial Bridge, loop through Caldwell Park, then follow the trail west toward Keswick Dam for river views and quiet canyon vibes. End with sunset back at the Sundial Bridge for an iconic Redding finish.
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A trail for everyone
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Walking and Running
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Cycling & E-Bikes
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Landmarks
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Events
A trail for everyone
Paved, scenic, and accessible, the Sacramento River Trail is one of Redding’s greatest treasures. Winding along the Sacramento River, this trail welcomes everyone—whether you’re on a bike, pushing a stroller, using a wheelchair, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk. The route connects to the Sundial Bridge and stretches for miles of smooth, shaded pathway surrounded by nature. Visitors often spot deer, river otters, eagles, and other wildlife along the way, while panoramic overlooks offer peaceful views of the river and surrounding foothills.
Step into scenery
Step onto the trail and set your own pace. From easy loops around the Sundial Bridge to longer stretches out toward Keswick Dam, the Sacramento River Trail makes every walk or run feel scenic. Sunrise jogs, stroller strolls, or a sunset power walk—it’s all here, right in Redding’s backyard.
Ride Riverside
Grab a bike and roll riverside. Smooth pavement and wide paths make this 17.4-mile stretch a dream ride for road bikes, cruisers, and e-bikes. Start at Turtle Bay, cross the Sundial Bridge, and follow the river west for nonstop views. Bike rentals are easy in town, so you can hit the trail without missing a beat.
Icons Along the Way
The Sacramento River Trail is lined with must-see Redding icons. Run across the glass-decked Sundial Bridge, cruise toward the century-old Diestelhorst Bridge, or ride across the Stress Ribbon Bridge. Push further and the path links to the Sacramento River Rail Trail, stretching all the way to Shasta Dam. You can even go through a historic train tunnel. Pro runner Sara Hall calls it “the best bike path in the world” for its perfect surface, lush scenery, and one-of-a-kind vibe.
Where Community Moves
The Sacramento River Trail connects more than places; it connects people. From the Redding Marathon every January to holiday fun runs and community bike rides throughout the year, miles turn into shared memories. Whether you’re chasing a finish line, cheering from the sidelines, or just soaking up the energy, the Sac River Trail is where Redding moves together.
– Redding Marathon in January
– Turkey Trot/Diestelhorst Dash on Thanksgiving Day
– Nail the Rail in April
– Ride of Silence with Shasta Wheelmen in May
Other areas to check out
Cloverdale & Clear Creek
Westside Trails
