Dog-friendly trails and river walks in Sacramento
The American River Parkway is the region's defining outdoor route for a longer dog walk. The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail follows the river corridor; access points let you choose a shorter outing rather than committing to the whole route.
Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail / American River Parkway
A long multi-use route along the American River. Keep your dog on a leash no longer than six feet throughout the Parkway, including on the paved trail. Give cyclists and other trail users room and use the shoulder where it is safe and available.
Sutter's Landing Regional Park
20 28th Street · A central-city access point with a three-quarter-mile multi-use trail connection along the American River Parkway and a separate fenced dog park. Off-leash time belongs inside the fenced dog park—not on the trail.
Discovery Park
200 Jibboom Street · At the meeting point of the American and Sacramento rivers, with access to the Jedediah Smith Bike Trail. The park is within the regional flood-control system, so check current conditions and park notices before visiting.
Plan for a safe walk
- Use a leash no longer than six feet on the American River Parkway.
- Carry water for both you and your dog, especially during hot Sacramento afternoons.
- Check current closures, parking information and river conditions before you leave.
- Keep dogs out of posted habitat-restoration or restricted areas.
Find a fenced off-leash dog park · Plan a Midtown stop at Truitt Bark Park · Finish with a dog-friendly patio