Mountain biking is an extremely popular activity in the Lake Tahoe area, and for good reason. With stunning scenery and numerous trails for all ability levels there’s a ride to satisfy any individual.

Two of the favorite trails are the Flume Trail and the Tahoe Rim Trail. The Flume Trail is one of the premier mountain bike trails in the western states, though it is demanding in both skill and effort. The newly completed Tahoe Rim Trail gives you the opportunity to mountain bike around the lake following the basins’ rim. Both trails offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains and valleys.

You may also access the backcountry via one of the many single tracks, dirt roads or by chair lift to the top of one of the participating ski resorts and later riding down the access trails. Squaw Valley and Northstar have tram or chair lift service in the summer. We have provided a very brief list of popular local trails. There are an almost limitless number of tracks available to avid riders of every skill level.

Several bike shops offer mountain bike rentals, guided tours, parts and repairs. They also can supply you with maps and detailed information on these and additional mountain bike routes. Please be aware that some trails prohibit the use of mountain bikes. Below find listings for Bicycle Rentals, Chairlifts and Mountain Bike Trails.

Village Ski Loft
800 Tahoe Blvd
Incline Village, Nevada
775.831.3537
Fees – Mountain bike rentals are from $27 to $45 per day. A credit card is required to secure bike rentals.
Driving time - LOCAL

The Back Country Bicycles
690 N. Lake Blvd.
Tahoe City, California
530.581.5861
Fees – Mountain bike rentals are from $25 to $40 per day. A credit card is required to secure bike rentals.
Driving time - 30 minutes. Driving distance - 20 miles.

Paco’s Bike and Ski
Gateway/Safeway Center
Truckee, California
530.587.5561
Fees - Mountain bike rentals are from $20 to $35 per day. A credit card is required to secure bike rentals.
Driving time - 40 minutes. Driving distance - 28 miles.

The Back Country Bicycles
Westgate Shopping Center
11429 Donner Pass Road
Truckee, California
530.582.0909
Fees - Mountain bike rentals are from $25 to $40 per day. A credit card is required to secure bike rentals.
Driving time – 40 minutes. Driving distance – 28 miles.

Squaw Valley Ski Resort
Olympic Valley Road
Squaw Valley, California
530.583.6955 
Fees - Call for current fee information 
Driving time - 40 minutes. Driving distance - 30 miles.

Northstar Ski Resort
Highway 267, between Kings Beach and Truckee
530.562.1330
Fees - Call for current fee information 
Driving time - 30 minutes. Driving distance - 20 miles.

Tahoe Rim Trail
For a complete description of the TRT, look for the Tahoe Rim Trail on the Recreation Directory.

Marlette Flume Trail - Strenuous
This ride, an exciting single track, 1600 feet above Lake Tahoe, is one of the most scenic anywhere. Most parties begin at Spooner Lake. Take the north Canyon road to Marlette Lake dam (6 miles, 800 foot gain) and follow the historic flume line for 4.4 miles to Tunnel Creek road. There is a regular shuttle service back to Spooner Lake in the summer. Call the Spooner Lake State Park for schedules.

Here are several other options:
Option one – Reverse the ride back to Spooner Lake. Watch your speed and other visitors while descending North Canyon. 21 miles roundtrip. Allow 3 – 5 hours total.

Option two – Descend Tunnel Creek road to Highway 28. This is a steep (1,800 foot) and sandy descent. Serious accidents have occurred here so watch your speed and other visitors. One-way mileage from Spooner Lake is 13 miles. About 3 – 4 miles total.

Option three – Backcountry loop back to Spooner Lake. Take the Tunnel Creek road toward Franktown Creek. Take the Red House Flume and follow dirt roads back to Marlette and Spooner Lakes. Loop mileage is 24 miles and 2500 foot gain. Time 4 – 6 hours. This ride is recommended for strong experienced riders only.

Option four – Backcountry loop to Spooner Lake via Tahoe Rim Trail. Take Tunnel Creek road uphill to Twin Lakes junction and take the Rim Trail south to Hobart/Marlette Lake and Spooner Lake. Loop mileage is 22 miles and 2000 foot gain. Recommended for strong experienced riders only.

Brockway Summit to Martis Peak - 5 Miles one way - Moderate.
The Martis Peak Road is a 5-mile climb well worth the effort. Drive north on Highway 267 from Kings Beach to Brockway Summit. Park ½ mile past the summit on Forest Service Road 18N02.

Mt. Rose Downhill – (Kamikaze) – Strenuous
Park at the Diamond Peak X-Country area, go east to the Tahoe Meadows along Highway 431 you will find many unmarked bike trails. Please note the trails will be on your right (east side of the highway) as you drive or bike up towards the summit. These trails are varying lengths and difficulties.  Remember that many of these areas are remote and it is prudent to wear a helmet and safety gear in addition to carrying spare tires, patch kits, a pump, tools, first aid kit and plenty of water, food and sunscreen.

Please be aware and bike with care.