We’ve compiled a variety of mountain bike trails to suit all tastes. For additional information (including more detailed directions, maps, and more), visit our mountain biking page.
Foothill mountain bike trails
Dirt junkies can explore a variety of trails at the lower elevations ranging from pristine singletrack to beginner-friendly double track. Best of all, many of these trails are rideable year-round.
Cronan Ranch Trail System
Mountain bikers of all abilities can enjoy the 12+ miles of single and double track trails with outstanding views of the South Fork American River. It’s also one of the few trails that where you’ll find a movie set! Park at Pilot Hill and Hwy 49 entrance.
Salmon Falls
This trail delivers 8.5 miles of scenic lakeside singletrack to the Peninsula Campground. Ride it as an out and back for additional mileage. Intermediate biking skills make the ride more enjoyable. Park at Salmon Falls Bridge lot.
Foresthill Divide Loop
A 13-mile loop along the ridges of the Foresthill/Auburn Divide features stunning views of both the Middle Fork American River Canyon and the North Fork American River Canyon. Bonus: it’s good for all abilities. Park at the trailhead (on the right) on Foresthill Road, approximately 6 miles past the Foresthill Bridge.
Fleming Meadow Loop
Located across from Jenkinson Lake, this 6.5-mile loop trail of mostly singletrack is full of flowy banked turns, along with a moderate uphill climb that’s well worth the downhill. It’s best for intermediate to advanced riders. Park off Mormon Emigrant Trail in Sly Park.
Lake Tahoe mountain bike trails
Tahoe’s become quite the mountain biking mecca in past years, and continued trail building all around the lake is only helping solidify that claim. You don’t have to be an expert rider to enjoy the trails around here, either.
Corral Loop/Sidewinder
This South Lake Tahoe network of trails run parallel to the Fountain Place paved road, which means you can shuttle them by car. Upper and lower Corral trails boast various features including rocks, log rides, jumps, and rock rolls (along with ride arounds), while Sidewinder and Incense Cedar are smooth, flowy trails perfect for beginners and less aggressive riders. Park at the lower Corral parking lot off Fountain Place Road in Meyers.
Powerlines Trail
Intermediate riders and beginner riders not afraid of short climbs will enjoy the smooth rolling single track that takes you from near Heavenly along a forested trail above the neighborhoods of South Lake Tahoe. Explore the trail pullouts for views of the lake. Park at the top of High Meadow Road in South Lake Tahoe.
Tahoe Mountain/Angora Ridge
The Tahoe Mountain area offers several loop options that can be expanded into longer rides around Mule Deer/Angora Ridge. Trails are primarily intermediate, with great views of Lake Tahoe, Desolation Wilderness, and Fallen Leaf Lake from the top. Park on Tahoe Mountain Road in South Lake Tahoe.
Christmas Valley Trail
This is a moderately technical 7+ mile round trip trail that links part of the Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT) with rocky terrain that includes both a technically demanding climb and descent. Adventuring types can explore such scenic alpine lakes as Scott’s, Dardanelle’s, and Round Lake. Uber-adventures can try their hand at steep and rocky alternate lines (skills and protective gear strongly recommended!). Park at the southern end of South Upper Truckee Road before it climbs up to Hwy 89/Luther Pass.
For up to date trail information, mountain bike trail maps, events, and more be sure to visit Motherlode Trail Stewardship, Folsom Area Mountain Bike Association and the Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association.
Sources: Coloma.com, MTB Project, FATRAC, TAMBA
