Mountain bikers and bike riding enthusiasts know that North Lake Tahoe offers some of the best riding in the Sierra Nevada, with trails and terrain to suit riders of all skill levels and interests—from family-friendly to technical single-tracks. Our landscape is diverse, ranging from long paved trails and high alpine forests to rocky terrain. Many trails and routes offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains, lakes and the Truckee River making it an opportunity to explore new areas with each ride. There are also a variety of bike shops and rental options for those who need gear or repairs. Ebikes are available to rent just down the road at Tahoe eBikes .
Here are some of our top picks sorted by family-friendly to challenging for biking and mountain biking adventures in North Lake Tahoe.
Paved, Family Friendly Bike Trails
The Incline Village to Sand Harbor Bike Trail – One of the most scenic and popular biking routes in North Lake Tahoe. Start at the Tunnel Creek trail pay-parking lot at the east side of Incline Village on State Route 28. From there, you’ll embark on an approximately 7-mile round trip along the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe. As you pedal, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the sparkling blue waters and the surrounding mountains. The path is relatively flat, making it accessible for riders of various skill levels and ages. One of the highlights is reaching Sand Harbor, a picturesque state park with sandy beaches, big rocks jutting up from the lake and the bluest, crystal-clear waters.
North Tahoe Regional Park Pinedrop Trail – This paved Pam Emmerich Memorial Pinedrop Trail can be reached just behind the Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort, or directly from the North Tahoe Regional Park up National Avenue in Tahoe Vista, and continues through the regional park to Pinedrop Drive. Parents with children use this trail for bike riding, skateboards or for running and walking—a terrific opportunity for families to explore the regional park and have adventures along the way.
Tahoe Trailways Bike Path – This beautiful and extensive, reasonably flat paved bike trail system runs from just northeast of Dollar Point near Tahoe City to Palisades Tahoe Village, as well as up the West Shore to Meeks Bay. Every route offers scenic views of the Truckee River or Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains—with a meandering mix of open meadows, dense forests, and scenic riverbanks. The full trail system extends up to 45 miles out-and-back, but you can start at several points along the way, including the Tahoe City Transit Center. Suitable for most riders of all skill levels.
Truckee River Legacy Trail – This peaceful, family-friendly paved trail runs mostly along the Truckee River from the entrance at the Truckee Regional Park to Glenshire Drive, east of Truckee. You’ll see scenic views of the river, surrounding meadows and mountains. The trail is approximately 10 miles out-and-back, with a few ups and downs and one steep climb. Enjoy picnics and relaxing along the banks of the Truckee River with lots of open space along the way. Suitable for riders of all skill levels. Ample free parking at Truckee Regional Park just south of downtown Truckee.
Mountain Biking Adventures
Flume Trail – This iconic trail traverses a steep mountainside offering amazing views of Lake Tahoe and a true sense of exhilaration along the way. Considered a must-ride for serious mountain bikers, the trail has some narrow single track, technical and sandy sections, and steep climbs as you peddle up to a narrow ridge line overlooking Lake Tahoe. Start at the Tunnel Creek Trail near the Tunnel Creek Cafe at the east side of Incline Village on Hwy 28. Or, begin at Spooner Lake, further up the east shore. Either direction you choose, you’ll get a challenging ride with good elevation gain and outstanding views.
Northstar Bike Park – Definitely for exhilaration seekers, this renowned mountain bike park is for serious riders, offering over 100 miles of trails from beginner to expert. The park features it all: Downhill trails with thrilling descents, drops, jumps, berms, rock gardens, flow trails, technical single tracks—all providing an exciting and challenging experience. Located at Northstar California Resort between Truckee and Lake Tahoe on Hwy 267, check for hours of operation. The Park also offers bike rentals and repair and all the safety gear to get down the mountain in one piece.
The Hole in the Ground Trail. This thrilling and adventurous, advanced trail network offers approximately 16 miles of single track featuring technical sections, challenging climbs, tight and narrow switchbacks and fast descents. Riders with some mountain biking experience and skill will fully enjoy the trail. Located near Truckee, the trail begins at the parking area off Donner Pass Road, near the Donner Summit Bridge. From there, you’ll start your climbing ascent through a mix of forested areas and open meadows as you wind through rocky terrain, granite slabs—all with the incredible views. It’s essential to come prepared with proper mountain biking gear, including a well-maintained bike with appropriate tires for the terrain. Bringing tools, spare tubes, and other essentials for trailside repairs.