Most Scenic Road Trips in Sacramento, California, United States
1. Golden Chain Highway (Highway 49)
Experience the historic Gold Rush era towns along this scenic route, featuring breathtaking Sierra Nevada vistas.
- Historic Sites: Visit numerous historical landmarks and museums.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the spectacular vistas of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Small Town Charm: Discover quaint Gold Rush-era towns like Columbia State Historic Park.
2. Colfax Loop (Highway 80 & Highway 49)
Drive through picturesque farmland and charming towns before reaching the breathtaking Donner Summit.
- Seasonal Attractions: Experience winter sports at Donner Ski Ranch or summer hiking in Tahoe National Forest.
- Farmland Scenery: Marvel at the vast expanses of farmland and rolling hills.
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore numerous outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping.
3. Capital City Freeway (Interstate 5)
Travel through the heart of California's Central Valley, showcasing lush farmland and scenic views.
- Central Valley Agriculture: Witness the vast fields of fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
- Rest Stops: Take advantage of rest stops for photos, picnics, or wildlife viewing.
- Variety of Cities: Visit cities like Stockton, Modesto, and Fresno along the way.
4. Steiner Trail (Highway 174)
Follow this winding trail through the rugged Sierra foothills and admire stunning vistas of Folsom Lake.
- Natural Wonders: Witness the beauty of Folsom Lake and the surrounding Sierra Nevada.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding along the trail.
- Historical Sites: Visit historic sites like the New Melones Dam and Copperopolis.
5. Sacramento-Auburn Trail (Highway 49)
Journey through the Gold Country and marvel at the historic towns, vineyards, and scenic landscapes.
- Gold Rush History: Explore numerous historical landmarks from the Gold Rush era.
- Wine Tasting: Sample award-winning wines at local vineyards.
- Scenic Vistas: Admire breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada foothills.
6. Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
Discover the birthplace of California's Gold Rush at this historic park, featuring a scenic drive and beautiful vistas.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the Gold Rush era and its impact on California.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy a picturesque drive through historic Coloma.
- Outdoor Activities: Participate in activities like hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
7. Placer County Wine Trail
Tour the rolling hills and vineyards of Placer County, sampling award-winning wines along the way.
- Wine Tasting: Sample a variety of wines at numerous wineries.
- Scenic Beauty: Admire the beautiful landscapes and vineyard views.
- Local Culture: Experience the unique local culture and hospitality.
8. Sacramento Valley Scenic Byway
Travel through rolling hills, farmland, and charming towns on this scenic byway connecting Sacramento and Red Bluff.
- Agricultural Landscapes: Witness the vast agricultural landscapes of the Central Valley.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical landmarks like the Sutter Buttes and Old Sacramento State Historic Park.
- Rest Stops: Take advantage of rest stops for photos, picnics, or wildlife viewing.
9. South Fork American River Scenic Byway
Follow this scenic route along the South Fork American River, featuring stunning vistas and outdoor adventures.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the beauty of the South Fork American River.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like rafting, kayaking, and fishing.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like Coloma, birthplace of the California Gold Rush.
10. Nevada City Wine Country
Explore the charming town of Nevada City and its surrounding vineyards, offering a unique wine tasting experience.
- Wine Tasting: Sample local wines at family-owned wineries.
- Historical Sites: Visit historic sites like the Nevada City National Historic Landmark District.
- Local Culture: Experience the unique charm and culture of Nevada City.
11. Donner Pass Scenic Byway
Travel through the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains on this scenic byway, offering breathtaking views and historical sites.
- Scenic Vistas: Admire breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like the Donner Memorial State Park and Truckee.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy winter sports or summer hiking in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
12. Lotus to Placerville
Drive along the beautiful American River and marvel at the picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and vineyards.
- Natural Beauty: Witness the beauty of the American River and surrounding landscapes.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical landmarks like Coloma, birthplace of the California Gold Rush.
- Wine Tasting: Sample award-winning wines at local vineyards.
13. California State Route 193
Drive through the scenic Sierra foothills and marvel at the rolling hills, vineyards, and historic sites.
- Scenic Vistas: Admire breathtaking views of the Sierra foothills.
- Wine Tasting: Sample local wines at family-owned wineries.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like the Lincoln City Historic District.
14. Sacramento River Scenic Byway
Follow this scenic route along the Sacramento River, featuring picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor adventures.
- Natural Beauty: Witness the beauty of the Sacramento River and surrounding landscapes.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like Old Sacramento State Historic Park.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like fishing, boating, or kayaking along the Sacramento River.
15. Sacramento-Yosemite Trail
Travel from the vibrant city of Sacramento to the majestic Yosemite National Park, taking in stunning landscapes and historical sites along the way.
- Natural Beauty: Admire breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and Yosemite National Park.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like Gold Rush-era towns, the California State Railroad Museum, and the historic Gold Country.
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore Yosemite National Park's numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.