American River Parkway - Sunrise Recreation Areas, Upper and Lower

Welcome:

These parks provide recreation and education for thousands of visitors each year. The park is divided into two areas, Upper Sunrise and Lower Sunrise. Upper Sunrise has a boat launch, while Lower Sunrise provides fishing, equestrian trails, picnicking and nature walks. Both Upper and Lower Sunrise provide special interests and visitors with ample sights to see.

Fast Facts:

  • Lower Sunrise is a popular raft launch area during the summer

How to Get There:

From U.S. Highway 50, exit at the Sunrise Blvd. off-ramp. Head north. Just before the American River overpass, turn right into the park entrance, which is marked by a sign. Past the entry kiosk, turn left to get to Lower Sunrise and right to enter Upper Sunrise. Upper Sunrise may also be accessed from Gold Country Blvd just west of Hazel Avenue (north of Highway 50). The fish hatchery parking lot is accessible only from the Hazel Avenue access to Upper Sunrise.

View Lower Sunrise Map

View Upper Sunrise Map​

Activities:

Upper Sunrise: A boat launch provides enough space to safely launch a small recreational
boat, or raft, into the swift river. The historic Fair Oaks Bridge, site of a feature film or two,
and hundreds of enjoyable walks and bike rides, can also be found here.

Lower Sunrise: Linked to Sacramento Bar via the Jim Jones Bridge, which only pedestrians, bicyclists and equestrians can cross. Horse lovers can bring their equine companions to the equestrian staging area. Anglers enjoy fishing from this bridge. The Jedediah Smith Memorial Bike Trail can be enjoyed from both parts of Sunrise. Many bicyclists choose to enter the trail here, as the trail is a long one!

Hours and Fees:

The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Parking fees are collected year-round, even on special event days and on weekends.

Park Fees:

  • $7 Vehicle
  • $13 Vehicles with Trailer (ex. Boat or Horse) or RV
  • $28​ Bus
  • Vehicle fees increase over Summer Holiday Weekends.

Special Event fees vary by event.
Self-payment is required if no fee collector is present.

Picnics Allowed: Yes

Additional Information:

Not at this time