Oscar having fun at Folsom Lake. (CC) T. Dibble
Johnny Cash may have put Folsom on America's musical map, but visitors don't sing the blues once they experience the vitality of this historic little city at the western gateway to California Gold Country.
DogTrekkers visiting Folsom will find more than 32 miles of paved, multi-use trails for cyclists, walkers and joggers, including many segments that intersect with open space corridors, creeks and greenbelts. To get a feel for what’s out there, stroll a section of the Humbug-Willow Creek trail system, which meanders 15 miles through a variety of terrain. Or, follow the American River shoreline along a segment of the 32-mile American River Parkway connecting Folsom with the Old Sacramento historic district.
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area has its own set of trails, 80 miles of them in all, along with campgrounds and miles of shoreline where Sparky can swim and fetch sticks to his heart’s content. Bring your boat and double the fun for both of you—or rent a kayak or canoe at Negro Bar and paddle to your own private cove.
Folsom’s recently revitalized historic district, centered on Sutter Street, is great for an anytime stroll with your four-legged friend. It's also the setting for events ranging from farmer's markets to festivals and car shows, many of which you're welcome to attend with Fido as your date. In warm weather, the two of you can watch the world go by from a sidewalk table at Dos Coyotes or Karen's Bakery and Cafe, a regionally known culinary landmark with a large, dog-friendly patio.
If your pup needs to run off steam, take her to Fido Field (also known as Folsom Dog Park), unclip the leash and watch her go. When it comes time for some shut-eye, Folsom boasts three dog-friendly hotels where you and yours can cuddle up. They include the Residence Inn by Marriott, Lake Natoma Inn and Larkspur Landing Folsom. Book a Sip ‘n’ Stay package to receive a complimentary bottle of El Dorado County wine and the inside scoop on a Sierra Nevada foothills wine-tasting adventure.
