Best Day Trips From Sacramento to Take This Summer
Recognized for its gold-mining past, Sacramento is an exciting city filled with unique places to eat and drink, historical sites, and endless recreational opportunities. That said, every once in a while, it’s nice to escape busy city life for something a little more peaceful. Luckily, iconic forests, notable small towns, and stunning wine regions surround the city, making for ideal day trip destinations. And the best part? Each of these destinations is under two hours away. So load up your car, call your best friend, and prepare for the best day trips from Sacramento to take this summer.
Eldorado National Forest
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and take a trip to the Eldorado National Forest. Located roughly 60 miles from Sacramento, this massive forest range is home to gold-bearing rivers, wildflower trails, campsites, hiking paths, and more. Spend time exploring the Desolation Wilderness, a 63,960-acre area filled with valleys, lakes, and mountain views. Or wander leisurely through one of the wildflower viewing areas within the forest. Many daytime hiking trails are available, including Devil’s Lake Trail and the Ice House Bike Trail. Before planning your day trip to Eldorado National Forest, check online for storm updates or closure announcements.
Folsom
Tucked alongside the beautiful Folsom Lake, this charming city is an ideal day trip from Sacramento. Whether you love outdoor recreation and lake views or want to see the city Johnny Cash wrote about, the region won't disappoint. Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, where you can swim, hike, fish, and watch the sunset over Lake Natoma. The recreation area also offers horseback riding trails, campsites, multiple beaches, and charming picnic areas where you can stop for lunch.
Nappa Valley
Arguably the most well-known wine region in the United States, Nappa Valley is an oenophile’s dream day trip destination. As you make your way through the endless local wineries, you’ll soon notice there’s more to Nappa than just good drinks. You can soak up views of rolling hills and picturesque grape fields that span as far as the eye can see. To make your day trip as convenient as possible, hop aboard the Nappa Valley Wine Train. The 36-mile train ride includes a four-course meal and takes you to exclusive spots you will not find on a winery map.
Sutter Creek
Packed with small-town charm and well-maintained 19th-century buildings, Sutter Creek feels like a blast from the past. Known as one of the more popular gold-rush towns, Sutter Creek boasts historic landmarks, local wineries, and beautiful flower fields. Walk down the famous Main Street or enjoy a guided tour of Roaring Camp Mining Company, where you can pan for your own gold. If you are interested in seeing the old gold mines, then a hike through the Sutter Creek Gold Mine Trail is a must.
Auburn
Often overlooked as nothing more than a pitstop on your way to Lake Tahoe, the town of Auburn is a great day trip location. Adventure lovers will enjoy spending a few hours wandering through the Auburn State Recreation Area, which offers swimming, hiking, horseback riding trails, and more. The park rests along two forks of the American River, and you will also find opportunities for gold panning and whitewater rafting here. Once you are finished exploring Aubrun’s natural beauty, make your way to the adorable downtown core, where you can find several local shops, restaurants, and local breweries.
Yolo County
Yolo County is best known for its impressive and wide-spanning sunflower fields. Wander through seas of golden blooms, found on-site at local wineries, farms, and various town attractions. Summer is peak sunflower season, so expect plenty of visitors wherever you go. Throughout the county, you can also find several opportunities to pick your own fruits and flowers. Or, take it easy and browse a wide selection of fresh fruits, veggies, and more at the famous Davis Farmers Market.
Placerville
Another popular gold-mining town, Placerville, is a unique summer destination with plenty to see and do. Spend time at Apple Hill, picking your own seasonal fruits and flowers. Or take a trip back in time at Gold Bug Park, where you can explore an old mine, pan for gems, and explore various hiking trails. Placerville is also home to several gold-themed museums and local farms, so you will never run out of activities to try.
If you love outdoor exploration, wine tasting, or learning about the history of California’s gold rush, you are sure to have fun at any of these day trip locations. From sunflower fields that attract hoards of tourists to parks with the world's largest trees, Sacramento boasts some of the best summer sights and activities.
