Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Folsom lies on the banks of the American River, north-east of Sacramento. It’s named after the former U.S. Army officer Joseph Libbey Folsom, who founded the city, and is synonymous with Johnny Cash’s song “Folsom Prison Blues”.
Things to do in Folsom
Sprawling north of the city is Folsom Lake, a scenic reservoir that is a popular recreational area. It is traversed by around 150 kilometres of hiking trails and a paved cycling route that links to Lake Natoma and the American River Bike Trail. You can cast a fishing line to lure trout, catfish and largemouth bass or explore the lake shores by kayak.
Nearby is Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park, which preserves a hydroelectric power station dating back to 1895. Join a guided tour to learn about the vintage machinery on display and see a replica of the machine shop that once stood on the site. From the Folsom Powerhouse, you can walk to the beautiful Rainbow Bridge, which was completed in 1913.
Music fans can make time to walk the Johnny Cash Trail, a scenic pedestrian and cycling path that rings the property of Folsom Prison where he famously performed in 1968. Stretching for four kilometres, it meanders through rolling hills dotted with oak trees and artwork honouring the legendary singer. The Johnny Cash Trail connects to the restaurants and boutiques of the Folsom Historic District and the Folsom Lake Crossing Trail.
Getting around Folsom
Folsom is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Sacramento and 40 minutes from Sacramento International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America. Buses connect from Sacramento to Folsom and travel throughout the city.