Road Biking

Ride along forested byways, climb high mountain passes, and take in big Sierra views from the saddle.

Cyclists race on a winding road, desert landscape in the background.
Winding road through dense forest with tall green trees.

Smooth Roads, Big Rides, Endless Views

With miles of smooth pavement, challenging climbs, and breathtaking descents, Truckee-Tahoe is a road cyclist's dream destination. From gentle lakeside cruises to epic mountain passes, our roads deliver spectacular scenery with every pedal stroke.

From downtown Truckee, you're just minutes from classic rides like Donner Pass Road, Highway 89 to Tahoe City, and the Truckee River Legacy Trail. Fresh air, endless views, and a serious endorphin rush are all part of the ride.

  • 200+ miles of scenic paved routes through alpine landscapes
  • Legendary climbs with 5,000+ feet of elevation gain opportunities
  • Access to high-altitude training routes (6,000-9,000 ft elevation)
  • Historic routes following emigrant trails and railroad paths
  • Iconic 72-mile Lake Tahoe Loop — “America’s Most Beautiful Ride”

Our Favorite Rides

Mountain landscape with winding road, pine trees, and lake under a cloudy sky.

Donner Pass Climb

Challenge yourself on this historic climb that follows the original Transcontinental Railroad route up to Donner Summit, rewarding riders with spectacular views and a thrilling descent.

Distance: 16 miles out & back
Elevation Gain: 1,800 ft

Donner Lake Birdseye View

Donner Lake Loop

This classic ride circles the scenic shoreline of Donner Lake, offering continuous water views and a chance to visit Donner Memorial State Park along relatively flat terrain.

Distance: 7-mile loop
Elevation Gain: ~200 ft

Cyclists on a winding road by a flowing river.

Truckee River Legacy Trail

Perfect for a mellow cruise or recovery ride. This paved, multi-use path follows the Truckee River and offers scenic, flat terrain with minimal car traffic.

Distance: 10 miles out & back
Elevation Gain: ~250 ft

Pathway beside a river with tall pine trees under a blue sky.

Highway 89 to Tahoe City

A beautiful and moderately challenging ride that rolls alongside the Truckee River, connecting Truckee to Tahoe City with stunning river and mountain views.

Distance: 26 miles out & back
Elevation Gain: ~800 ft

Cyclist wearing helmet and jersey, riding in mountainous area.
TOPO
1 /

What To Look Out For

Things We Love

  • Riding pavement like you find on Old Highway 40 that follows historic wagon and railroad routes, connecting you to the rich history of the Truckee area
  • Rewarding yourself with an Alibi Ale Works IPA or Coffeebar latte after conquering Truckee's scenic roads

Key Experiences

Tahoe Bike Month

Every June, Tahoe Bike Month brings together cyclists for friendly competitions, community rides, and local events. Ride solo or with a team, track your miles on Strava, and win prizes for participation, elevation, and more.

Key Experiences

Truckee-Tahoe Century Ride (DIY or Event-Based)

A bucket-list challenge for experienced riders: this 100-mile loop takes you through Truckee, Tahoe City, Emerald Bay, and over Brockway Summit. Expect big climbs, stunning views, and serious elevation.

FAQs

What makes Truckee-Tahoe special for road cycling?
 

Truckee-Tahoe offers an exceptional mix of challenging climbs, scenic byways, and stunning views that attract cyclists from around the world. The area's high elevation (6,000+ feet) provides clean mountain air and cooler summer temperatures, while the variety of routes—from gentle riverside paths to epic mountain passes—means there's something for every rider. The cycling community is vibrant, with numerous local events and a culture that embraces and respects cyclists.

When is the best time of year for road cycling in Truckee-Tahoe?
 

The prime road cycling season typically runs from late May through October. July and August offer the warmest temperatures and all mountain passes are reliably open. June features less traffic and beautiful wildflowers, while September and early October showcase stunning fall colors with cooler temperatures. Mountain passes like Donner Summit may still have snow along the roadside in early season, and weather can change quickly year-round, so always check conditions before heading out.

Are there bike rental shops in Truckee?
 

Yes! Several local shops offer quality road bike rentals, including Paco's Bike & Ski, Olympic Bike Shop, and Tahoe Sports Hub. Many offer carbon road bikes and e-bikes with advance reservations. For the best selection, especially during peak summer months, reserve your rental at least a few days in advance. Most shops also provide helmets, repair kits, and local knowledge about current road conditions.

How should I prepare for high-altitude cycling?
 

Cycling at Truckee's elevation (5,800+ feet) affects performance even for experienced cyclists. Give yourself 1-2 days to acclimate before attempting challenging rides. Hydrate more than usual, use sunscreen (UV exposure is stronger at altitude), and expect to ride about 10-15% slower than at sea level. Begin with easier routes before tackling big climbs like Donner Pass. Watch for signs of altitude sickness such as headache, nausea, or unusual fatigue.

What safety considerations should I keep in mind while road cycling in Truckee-Tahoe?
 

Always wear a helmet and bright clothing for visibility. Mountain roads can have limited shoulders in places, so ride single file when traffic is present. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather—carry a lightweight wind/rain jacket even on sunny days. Descents can be fast and sometimes technical, so check your brakes before any major downhills. Cell service can be spotty on remote mountain roads, so consider riding with a buddy and letting someone know your planned route.

Are there any group rides or cycling events in the Truckee area?
 

Yes! Throughout the summer season, you'll find weekly group rides organized by local shops and clubs. Major annual events include the Tour de Manure in June, the Tahoe Sierra Century in September, and various rides during Tahoe Bike Month in June. For current group ride schedules, check with Paco's Bike & Ski or Olympic Bike Shop when you arrive in town.

How can I prepare my bike for Truckee's mountain roads?
 

Ensure your bike is in good working order before tackling Truckee's climbs and descents. Most importantly, check that your brakes are in excellent condition for the long descents. Consider gearing—if your bike has standard gearing, you might find some of our steeper climbs challenging. A compact crankset or wide-range cassette will make climbs like Donner Pass more manageable. Local bike shops can help with tune-ups, adjustments, or rental recommendations if your current setup isn't ideal for mountain riding.

What are some good cycling routes for beginners or families?
 

The Truckee River Legacy Trail offers a scenic, traffic-free option perfect for beginners and families. The Donner Lake Loop provides beautiful views with modest elevation change. For a slightly longer ride with minimal traffic, try the Martis Valley Loop via Schaffer Mill Road. These routes offer safe, enjoyable cycling without the challenges of major climbs or busy roads, making them perfect for casual rides or those new to mountain cycling.

Where can I find refreshments along popular cycling routes?
 

Planning refueling stops is important for longer rides. In downtown Truckee, Coffeebar and Wild Cherries are cyclist favorites. When riding to Tahoe City, stop at the Dam Café near the Lake Tahoe Dam. Carry more water than you think you'll need—high elevation increases hydration needs significantly, and water sources can be limited on some routes.