Fresno-Clovis Rail-Trail

By Miranda Adams

The Fresno-Clovis Rail-Trail is 10 miles long and a favorite of bicyclists, joggers, and dog walkers. 

Matt Heder, who recently moved to the area, said it’s also his Golden Retriever’s route of choice. 

“I’m taking Indie here on a walk,” Heder said. “We live close by and – I mean, do I wish it was probably about ten times the length? Yes! But it’s great, it’s really close to us and it’s really nice.”

The trail starts in Tarpey Village at the end of the railroad tracks and continues north through old town Clovis before heading east to River Park.

Jennifer Ruch, a Fresno resident, grew up a few streets away from where the trail is today.

“When I was a kid this was the railroad tracks,” Ruch said. “Now I’m 51, I live about a mile and a half from where I grew up, and now I can walk on this trail where I used to play as a kid.”

Initially, logs were hauled from the mountains along this route, but during World War II, it was used to take people to the Pinedale internment camp. Commemorative plaques and statues can be found along the way. 

In addition to history, the trail is also a place for making new memories. John Hulbert, says his favorite spot is along the Dry Creek Bridge.

“I’ve been walking this trail for probably 10 years, and just recently I put this lock on for my sweetheart,” Hulbert said. “We’ve been together maybe six years now but it was time that we actually confirmed our relationship with this lock.”

In addition to bridges, the trail is also fully paved and full of tunnels, making it a great place to catch some speed. The southern portion of the trail even has workout equipment.

If you need a break, there are plenty of shaded benches along the way, including at rest stops that used to be old rail stations. Just make sure not to relax for too long, because certain gated sections close after 9 p.m.