The Sacramento River Trail provides breathtaking views.

If you plan to take a short hike or go on a nice long run, the Sacramento river trail provides a great opportunity to get out and see the views of Redding.

If you choose to walk/run "the loop" then get ready for a nice 5.7 mile loop. This loop makes for a great run. If you plan to take your kids on a nice bike ride, you will find that your kids will love the side trails that allow a little "off roading." Since there are mile markers, you can turn around any time and know how long you were out.

You can cross any one of the 3 bridges that are along this trail and get views like this:

If you plan to take the entire loop, you can make your way around "the loop" then continue on to the Sundial Bridge , where you will see some more fantastic views or stop to get a sandwich at the Turtle Bay cafe. After circling back to the Sacramento river trail parking lot, you will have gone close to 13 miles.

If you choose to head straight west on the trail, you will eventually hook up to a gravel trail which will take you all the way to Shasta Dam , where you can get some more great pictures. Remember this is not an easy trail and make sure your kids are in good shape before taking them on this trail. It is about 10 miles one way.