Sunset Whitney Recreation Area

From the first public forum to the latest community run, the story of the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area is filled with contributions and involvement from the residents who call this city home. Share the journey with us as we take a look back on how Rocklin and its residents created the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area.

“This green space at the heart of the city will provide an oasis for outdoor activities,” said former Rocklin Mayor Ken Broadway.

In January 2018, the City completed the purchase of approximately 184 acres of unkempt land, formerly belonging to the Rocklin Golf Club. This land would become the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area (SWRA), a space that the City of Rocklin is working to turn into beautiful parkland, suited for community gatherings and nature appreciation.

Before the land was open to residents, the City identified necessary upgrades to ensure visitor well-being. A careful planning process began to mitigate the threats of dead trees, walking bridges in disrepair, and open sand pits, in addition to regular maintenance of overgrown vegetation.

On February 28, 2018, the City hosted an “open house” forum at the Rocklin Event Center for residents to share their dreams for the new community space, allowing people to get involved in its creation.

An army of Rocklin volunteers responded to a call for action and arrived early in March 2018 to remove a 6-foot wooden slat fence, which had been hastily constructed two years prior to obstruct the view of the property to passers-by.

On April 21, 2018, over 200 local youth arrived bright and early wielding shovels, rakes, and smiles—ready to plant nearly 350 plants and paint 2 restroom facilities.

The City of Rocklin, in conjunction with the Run Rocklin Series, brought a new run to the area on November 3, 2018, providing a first look at the property and a fundraiser to help open the site to the public.

On August 30, 2019, the City of Rocklin officially opened the West Trails section of the park, totaling 2.7 miles of walking paths. Residents were invited to be a part of the first official walk.

On November 2, 2019, the second annual Sunset Run was held at the SWRA, The day featured a community health expo, lawn games, food vendors, and a movie screening, making the event even more fun for all ages.

The park is now open to the public, typically from sunrise until sunset. Come see the park for yourself, and enjoy the open space made possible by the contribution and dedication of the City and its residents.

To learn more about each of the events that brought the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area to fruition, visit the City's website below: