The Salmon Falls & Darrington Trail is a 15.7-mile out-and-back hike near the Salmon Falls bridge off Salmon Falls Road in Folsom, and it’s one of those trails where your dog will get a genuinely solid workout without feeling tedious. The moderately difficult terrain winds through rocky outcrops and lush vegetation with views of the American River and surrounding hills throughout. You’ll see other hikers and mountain bikers here regularly, so it’s a social trail where dogs often get to interact with each other.

The landscape shifts as you go, which keeps things interesting for both of you. Some sections are more open with panoramic views, while others wind through denser vegetation. The rocky areas give dogs good footing, though their paws will appreciate water breaks along the way. This is the kind of trail that works well if your dog has solid conditioning—it’s not a casual stroll, but it’s also not brutally steep.

Water is essential to bring plenty of. There’s the American River nearby, but you’ll want to carry enough for both you and your dog to drink regularly throughout the hike, especially on warmer days. Pack snacks for yourself too, since it’s a long out-and-back and you’ll feel the distance on the return leg.

The trail attracts a mix of hikers and mountain bikers, so keeping your dog leashed is important both for their safety around bikes and for other people’s comfort. The friendly atmosphere means you’ll likely meet other dog owners, but leashed interactions are always easier to manage than loose-dog situations. The varied terrain and consistent scenery make this feel less monotonous than some longer trails, and your dog will probably sleep well afterward. Check current conditions before you go, since trail quality can vary with weather and use.