By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. April 1, 2026)
El Dorado Trail Gains National Recognition Among Top U.S. Paved Bike Routes
PLACERVILLE, Calif. — A growing chorus of cyclists from across the country is placing the El Dorado Trail among the best paved bicycle routes in the United States, citing its scenic terrain, Gold Rush history, and accessible design through the heart of El Dorado County.
Stretching across multiple communities, the El Dorado Trail is a developing recreation corridor intended to eventually link the Sacramento County line to the Lake Tahoe Basin. At present, roughly 35 miles are completed, with a mix of paved Class I bike paths and natural surface trails. The paved eastern segment—widely regarded as the crown jewel for road cyclists—runs approximately 8.5 miles from Camino through downtown Placerville to Missouri Flat Road, offering a gentle grade suitable for riders of all skill levels.
Local rider Joel A. Clark recently described his experience beginning near El Dorado:
“There’s a giant train trestle and lots of trees. Relatively flat for the first five miles… after Placerville it’s a long consistent uphill climb to the top, turn around, and race back down again.”
The route’s most recognizable landmark, the Weber Creek Trestle, towers roughly 100 feet above the canyon and provides expansive views of the surrounding foothills. The trail itself follows portions of historic rail alignments once used during California’s Gold Rush era, giving cyclists a rare combination of recreation and regional heritage.
Cyclists frequently highlight the trail’s versatility. Riders can begin at multiple access points, including Missouri Flat Road, Placerville Station, and Jacquier Road, with amenities such as restrooms, paved parking, and ADA access available at key locations. The Placerville segment also integrates directly with the city’s historic downtown, allowing riders to stop for dining and shopping before continuing east or west.
“It’s worth the drive,” said one rider who travels from Yuba City several times a year. “We love this trail,” added another local cyclist, echoing a sentiment repeated across social media platforms in recent weeks.
The trail’s design prioritizes safety and shared use. Cyclists are required to yield to pedestrians and equestrians, with a posted speed limit of 15 miles per hour. Motorized vehicles are prohibited, though electric mobility devices are permitted. Dogs are allowed on leash.
While the paved sections are a major draw, the western portion of the trail—extending roughly 27 miles toward El Dorado Hills—remains largely unpaved and caters to mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians. County officials continue to expand the paved network, including the Shingle Springs Class I Improvements Project, which will add more than two miles of new paved trail.
The trail’s growing reputation reflects a broader trend: cyclists increasingly seek routes that combine safety, scenery, and local culture. In that regard, the El Dorado Trail stands out—not just as a regional asset, but as a destination in its own right.
For El Dorado County residents, the recognition comes as little surprise. For visitors, it may be reason enough to exit Highway 50 and see it firsthand.
| Trailhead | Amenities | Location Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Flat Road | Paved parking, ADA access | South of Walmart; popular starting point for the paved section. |
| Placerville Station | Free parking, restrooms | Located on Mosquito Road near downtown Placerville. |
| Bradford Park | Parking, restrooms, water | Access to the western natural trail in Shingle Springs. |
| Smith Flat/Jacquier Rd | Paved parking | Located on Jacquier Road near Camelia Lane. |
