This well-maintained trail system from the Carson Valley Trail Association features challenging terrain but beautiful views.
The Clear Creek Trail System is made up of several trails and loops, all of which are open to horses. The trails on the south side of Jacks Valley Road are mild in elevation, non-technical, with easy footing and no obstacles. There are enough mileage options with these trails (roughly 29 miles) to get in a long day ride.
The challenging (and, in my opinion, more fun) ride is the trail linking Jacks Valley Road with Spooner Summit, 15 miles each way. The trail climbs up the mountain, first through sagebrush, then into dramatic rock formations, and finally into thick pine forest. The route offers stunning views of the valley below and the looming mountains.
This is not a trail for beginner riders or green horses. It features narrow single-track trails, a lot of elevation gain, several small water crossings, and some technical sections.
This is a multi-use trail but it is dominated by mountain bike riders. Cyclists like to start at Spooner Summit and take advantage of the elevation loss – meaning they’re going very fast downhill. A lot of the trail has moderately steep drop-offs, switchbacks, and blind curves. If you are riding uphill (as most equestrians choose to do), it is imperative that you are listening closely and keeping a sharp eye for bikes coming down the mountain. A good horse will also alert you if you’re paying attention to their ears.
Don’t let the mountain bikes deter you though. Just time your visit to avoid peak use (weekends) and be alert. I’ve ridden this trail many times and had no problems with mountain bikes. Mostly they are respectful of horseback riders and will give way. (Though I don’t mind giving way if the terrain calls for it. Use best judgement.)
With the trees and elevation, some sections of this trail can hold snow or ice late into the spring. Because of how very busy this spot is, it would behoove you to take a second to kick manure off the trail, for good will.
Getting Here
Where to Park: Horse trailer parking and trailhead access are in the lot immediately to the west of Jacks Valley Elementary School.
Alternatively, you could park at the Spooner Summit Trailhead, if you were planning to ride down the mountain. However, horse trailer parking is extremely limited there.
Trail Maps
