The American River Parkway is a natural treasure. This massive urban park stretches along the north bank of the American River for over 20 miles, skirting one of the most extensive riparian habitats in the continental US.
The park's network of trails and picnic areas is easily accessed from Old Sacramento by taking Front St north until it becomes Jiboom St and crosses the river, or by taking the Jiboom St exit off I-5/Hwy 99.
The parkway includes a nice walking/running/bicycling path called the Jedediah Smith National Recreation Trail that's accessible from Old Sacramento at the end of J St. You can rent bicycles at the waterfront (per day $25). If you end up parking at the trailhead at Discovery Park, the entrance fee is $5.
