When the heat is on, there’s no better place to be than in the mountains. This ride has it all – thick forests, alpine lakes, lush meadows, and moderately technical trails. We call this the Scotts Lake ride, but it is so much more.
This spot is easily accessible just over the border in Hope Valley on Highway 88. Riding anywhere around Lake Tahoe can be difficult because of the crowds and lack of parking for trailers, so this is a great way to get into the southern end of the Tahoe Basin.
From where you park, the route begins with an old, rough road to Scotts Lake. This road is still open so you may occassionally have to let a vehicle pass. The road is pretty rocky in some places and there’s a bit of elevation gain. It’s about 2.5 miles to Scotts Lake, a small alpine lake surrounded by exposed granite cliffs. Scotts Lake is a lightly popular recreation spot for fishing, paddle boading, and camping. You cannot ride all the way around the lake, but you can ride to the water.
Scotts Lake is just the beginning of this ride. Continuing on, the road turns into a non-motorized single-track trail that connects to the Tahoe Rim Trail. From here you can go as far as you want to go!
One option is to ride to Big Meadow and back (about 11 miles roundtrip). Big Meadow is where the trail from Scotts Lake connects with the Tahoe Rim Trail. As the name implies, it’s a huge grassy meadow – a perfect lunch break spot for your horse. There is also water here. Often you’ll see hikers and backpackers passing through.
From Big Meadow you can ride further on the Tahoe Rim Trail to countless more alpine lakes. One fun option is Round Lake (about 16 miles roundtrip). On the way to Round Lake, you could veer off to visit Dardanelles Lake (a three mile roundtrip spur). It’s really unlimited riding. Keep going on the Tahoe Rim Trail or connect to the Pacific Crest Trail! Or, just head back to the Scotts Lake parking area. No matter which way you go you’re guaranteed a fun day of riding.
It’s the Sierra so there’s some elevation gain. All the trails here are moderately technical, with obstacles like steps, bridges, water crossings, and navigating boulders. Be prepared to pass hikers with big packs. No bikes on Tahoe Rim Trail. This absolutely is bear country.
Getting Here
Where to Park: There is an unmarked cattle guard and dirt road on the right-hand side of Highway 88 (if coming from Nevada). Turn in and follow the road to a big turnout/parking area that most horse trailers park at. There rest of the area is a dispersed camping area and is heavily used. If you get to Blue Lakes Road you’ve gone too far.
