Keep on Truckee!

Pedal the paved Truckee River Bike Trail in Tahoe

An easygoing ride along the paved Truckee River Bike Trail in Tahoe City rolls out a steady stream of good times, and scenery. The 4-mile (one-way) route on this multi-use rail-trail parallels its namesake river (where many people this summer drift on flotation devices or picnic at water’s edge). The smooth asphalt path is a favorite among walkers, bikers, and strollers.

Cruise beside the river and among lush evergreens and fragrant pines. Pocket pebble-sand beaches make nice spots for taking a break and dipping your toes into the water.

The turnaround point also happens to make a nice pit stop: River Ranch Lodge’s restaurant and outdoor patio is popular for burgers and beers. Ride back the way you came. Keep on truckin’!

TIP: Rent a bike and get trail beta from the folks at Olympic Bike Shop for options and a map—across the street from River Ranch Lodge. Dog-friendly! 

The Tahoe City trailhead is located near the Transit Center (map). Olympic Bike Shop is located at 620 N. Lake Blvd. in Tahoe City.

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