Capital Park Loop Trail

My wife and I have been to the Capital Park in Sacramento, California many times in the past. But until recently discovered that walking around the perimeter of the park is actually a loop trail called " Capital Park Loop Trail". The loop trail is approximately 1.1 miles in total length and can be walked, jogged, and is wheelchair accessible. Only dogs on leashes are permitted on the trail. The cement walkway goes totally around the park. What makes this loop trail so special is the Capital Garden itself. It is filled with numerous varieties of plants and flowering trees. Some specimens are more than 100 years old ! WOW ! What's another interesting thing about the trail is that it passes by different memorials along the way. You are able to get off the trail anytime and stroll down one of many walkways within the park. Some of the special places to stop and see in the park are ( Veteran Memorial/Firefighter Memorial/ Rose Garden/ just to name a few.This is a very popular trail during the week. State workers take the opportunity to use the trail during lunch or breaks. I would highly recommend coming during the weekends if possible. The park is less crowded and you might even find street parking. Enjoy !

When I'm working downtown Sacramento I get up nice and early and run the loop six times. In the morning, before all the politicians start arriving for work, it is really quiet and serene. I like it because you can run almost nonstop and not have to cross the street or wait for a light!

Didn't realize the park perimeter is now a designated "park loop trail." Wow! That's great for cyclists, walkers, and runners. I use Capital Park to cut through on my bike (13th Street), a good one-mile walk for physical therapy, and a quiet place to talk to people and admire the fantastic grounds inside the perimeter. CHP patrols, so during regular business hours, you can count on this being a safe place. This park appeals to many - state workers, neighborhood residents, hotel guests, tourists, demonstrators du jour. If you're looking for a respite right here in town without all the noise and confusion, this loop is for you.

Honestly, we didn't stay at the Capital Park too long. The parking here is a 2-hour max, metered parking. We only stayed for about 15 minutes before we got hungry. I guess walking really made us grow an appetite. I feel bad because I know that this area was really pretty but the sun was setting fairly fast and we didn't want to walk at the park at night especially when there weren't that many people in it. We took our time taking photos of the surrounding area, especially of the architecture of the Capitol Building. Unfortunately, the west side of the building was undergoing construction during the time of our visit so there was a large section of the park that was fenced off. So, for now, im going to have to give this trip 3 stars with intentions of coming back during a more suitable time.

Not sure why this is listed in the hiking category, but it's definitely a great area to run or walk around at. I stayed at a hotel across the street so it was easy for me to skip on over and get my run in. I ran the perimeter of the park a couple times, and cooled down walking through the park. I really appreciated seeing the Firefighter's and Police Officer's memorial. Cali weather, great scenery, and the Capitol really kept me pump during my run. I'd recommend it if you're in the area.. and even if you live in the area. Take some time to appreciate what's around!