While many children enjoy playing in the backyard as the weather warms up, the City of Modesto offers locals a slightly more unique outdoor experience: 500 acres along the Tuolumne River.

Tuolumne River Regional Park, which runs along seven miles of the Tuolumne River, offers visitors trails to walk and picnic tables at which to enjoy lunch alongside the river.  Local parks are a benefit afforded to all residents and can often serve as not only a good way to get one’s fill of nature, but also a go-to place for family time outside of the house. 

“The coolest thing about it is allows residents of the county to get close to the  river and be in the habitat of one of the last native valley oaks trees in the Central Valley,” said Loren Holt, manager of Parks, Planning and Development Division for the City of Modesto.

While the City of Modesto does not recommend entering the Tuolumne River, it serves as beautiful backdrop for a day outside, whether that’s a family sports day, an adventurous hike or a romantic picnic.

“You really feel like you’re in a different area altogether,” said Holt. 

To access Tuolumne River Regional Park from Highway 99 North, take the Mitchell Road exit and then turn left onto Airport Way. The destination will be on your left.