As a runner, I am always looking for interesting trails. I was so thrilled to discover the beautiful Clarksburg Branch Line Trail about a mile from my home! Located in Southport, it starts at South River Road and runs to Gregory Road, crossing a few streets along the way. It is an actual former rail line that has been converted to a trail of crushed stone about 3 miles long.
The Clarksburg Branch Line Trail in Southport section of West Sacramento is fantastic for runners and walkers.
I’ve run the full length of it and back, which is pleasant with a good pair of trail running shoes. I occasionally see other runners, but the trail is mostly used by people walking their dogs. The canines can sniff, run off leash and bark without disturbing the neighbors. I’ve even seen dogs retrieve and frolic in the pond along the trail near Lake Washington Drive.
Quiet and scenic, the trail has views of mature trees and open space fields that stretch to the Sacramento River. If you’re lucky, you’ll see the adorable, small ,white-tailed rabbits that inhabit the brambles. You pass horses grazing on fenced properties and hear and see many small and large species of birds. In the spring, wild mustard turns the fields into a blaze of yellow.
And heading north from Gregory, there are beautiful views of downtown Sacramento, especially at sunset.
Another benefit useful for runners: there are signs marking every tenth of a mile! They must be a holdover from when the railroad tracks were used. These mileage markers are very accurate, according to my Garmin watch.
According to the City of West Sacramento website, the trail will be paved from South River Road to south of Linden, and a pedestrian/bike bridge built from the trail to River City High School, by 2013. I’m not sure I like that idea, although I understand the reasoning.
I guess I just enjoy the little slice of nature that the Clarksburg Branch Line Trail offers my city as it is.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi there! I just found your blog from West Sac Web! I love what you’re doing and have subscribed so I can keep seeing more! I too am a local West Sac girl- and I’ve recently started a blog all about being a first-time homeowner in our area. I hope you’ll check it out: http://www.DesignBuildLove.co
Hi Ashley: Thanks for the comment! I like your blog, too, and have placed a link to it on West Sac Chat home page. We should meet sometime. I see there is also one other blogger on West Sac Web. That’s exciting!
Susan (aka West Sac Chick)
Hi Susan! I actually just saw your response! I would actually love to meet sometime! Feel free to email me at designbuildloveblog@gmail.com