Bannister Park — Attraction in California

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...

I absolutely love this place. It's a perfect connection to the American River trails and the river itself. It's pretty easy to get lost so stick to the main paved roadway if you don't know where you're going. Maps are available online tho if you're feeling adventurous 😉 you can enter the back trails if you take the right that follows the big hill once you enter the park on the paved path or you can continue down the paved way to eventually get to the bridge and the water. Perfect place to skip rocks too if that's your thing (it's definitely mine!) More of an out and back type of path there isn't a defined loop although you can easily map one out because there are plenty of routes to explore. Atmosphere is calm and relaxing. There are some scratchy plants during the summer months so bring pants if you are averse to some scratches on your shins and calves. Great place for dogs, horses,...

Had a wonderful Hike down the Trail. Everything was in Bloom, absolutely beautiful hike. So many varieties of plants, trees, fauna, and even got to see Wildlife from vantage point of Trail. Parking is limited so arrive early, easily reached from Fair Oaks via Bicycle. Didn't go down to water but San Juan Rapids can be heard from Trail. Went out with younger group and they really had Fun. Foot Trail is pretty flat but there are some rocks and some traverse skills needed to go to farther reaches. Warm Up station at Park behind restrooms next to Parking. Handicap accessible, gentle slope coming back up to Parking lot and creekside spot in shade to rest. Bring Water on trail in Warmer weather. People were friendly in passing on Trail. Please pack it in pack it out, was cleaner than many other spots along river, only found 4 very small trash items to carry out. A good...