Bannister Park

I grew up near bannister park! It's a wonderful place to play with your kids or bring friends to spend time together. You can ride bikes along the path or take a long walk to enjoy the scenery. There river access for you to float on the river or go fishing. There's tons to do at bannister park!

Hiking here offers an unparalleled experience. The trails are breathtaking, providing an opportunity to witness both unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and diverse wildlife. Additionally, the river's beauty is enhanced by its ethereal glow during nighttime and twilight.

As I have been continuing to venture out to some great outdoor areas, one place that is highly recommended for people of all ages is "Bannister Park". Located just a couple of blocks off of Fair Oaks Blvd. in Fair Oaks and directly next to Sacramento Waldorf School, this is one of the cleaner and more scenic parks in the greater Sacramento area. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on nice weekend days so its best to arrive as early as possible or towards the end of the day. Keep in mind that parking is only for 3 hours max; there are officers on site that track when each car arrives so keep that in mind.The park itself has a very large soccer field with fresh-cut manicured grass. There aren't really any picnic tables to enjoy your lunch so if you do wish to eat here, I would recommend bringing a blanket. There are plenty of trash bins as well as a men's/women's restroom that is kept relatively clean. This park is dog friendly but I highly recommend that dogs are kept on a leash or at least in close proximity to their owner.But one of Bannister Parks big advantages compared to other parks is its close proximity to the American River. Also known as "San Juan Rapids Trail", this is a relatively easy 2.9 mile roundtrip walk that is paved (ideal of joggers/cyclists) and then eventually an actual trail that is adjacent to the river. As I have hiked this trail on numerous occasions, it is easy enough for small children and dogs. On any given day, you will see lots of wildlife including deer, birds, squirrels, and wild turkeys. Keep a lookout because there has been mountain lion and coyote sightings.The best months to visit this park are March through May and October. Since there is not much shade out here, the summer months can be uncomfortably hot. If you do happen to make it down to the river access area, there are several areas to dip your feet in the river. It almost feels as if you're miles and miles away from civilization with peaceful tranquil surroundings. All in all, "Bannister Park" is an excellent choice for people that wish to relax, unwind, or hike on a nice day. My rating, four stars.

Space is abundant here as are the trees. The main path is paved and leads to other paths along the American Rivers. The entrance is nestled in a residential area. As soon as you drive into the parking lot, one is surrounded by the green lawn and trees. There is an public restroom building that was accessible.The parking lot is a good size and easy to maneuver.As soon as one enters the walking path and tree area, it the world cuts off quickly and enjoying nature begins. The path is wide to allow spacing and/or groups together.

What a beautiful trail and bike path. I have been walking the trail for about the pass 12 years and it never gets old. I highly recommend the trail when you just need some nature and peace and find your zen....Lots of beautiful birds, grassy trails and beautiful trickling river with views of the gorgeous sunsets... The trail is very safe.... I have never had an encounter.... lots of people riding their bikes, jogging, walking their babies in strollers and elderly enjoying the beauty. One thing to be aware of is bobcats, coyotes and Mountain lions... I have seen all.... keep your dog close and kids under wraps.....

Love it. Fresh air and nice people around, walk is everything for me so this is the place where I can relax.

Truly one of the most beautiful trails I have been blessed to discover! There are beautiful gorgeous trees galore and a beautiful river where I saw happy folks fishing while enjoying the peace and quiet with scenic views. I was informed during the spring soon we'll be able to see beautiful flowers all around so I am very excited to see this Wonderland even more beautiful! There are also restrooms along the path and picnic areas too.Very easy trail mostly flat with little hills except for one at the end of the trail just before returning to the parking lot. We were able to complete just over 5 miles total. Surely gonna return here countless times!

I came here several times when I was in the area for a vacation. It's a small park but it has access to the trail along the American River which was great. I ended up taking the nonpaved path a couple of times and I got lost which was fun actually.

Tucked away in a neighborhood we found this park with appeared to be just a soccer field. I had no idea that there were trails and river access. We took one of the trails as and veered off to the far right where we found a sign that indicated river access. we followed it down for about 20 minutes finally finding the water which leads right to a tiny beach and an area near the grand rapids of the river perfect place to find some solitude on the weekends. The trail was rocky but otherwise had some pretty views and some wildlife to look out for. Definitely will be here again**Free**

We went here for a little hike on the bike trail to the river. Parking is free but only for 3 hours, which is fine for a jaunt. We followed a sign that said "River Access", but after that, there were no signs and we came to many forks in the road where we just guessed at the direction of the river. We made it and it was lovely and serene. We were the only people on the bank and we saw hawks and ducks. It was a bit of a pain not having clear trails though, but hey! We got to explore :)