With a trail covering so many miles, it can be difficult to know where to dive in. Here are some of our favorite day rides to give you a nice feel for the Tahoe Rim Trail:
Big Meadow to Round Lake
This out and back ride is just a hair over six miles total with a little over 1,000 feet of elevation gain and descent. It is moderately technical for some steps and a water crossing. While you won’t get the epic views of Lake Tahoe, you will get to ride to a small hidden alpine lake and enjoy some forest riding.
Get to the Big Meadow trailhead parking lot early to make sure you get a spot. Ride out onto the Tahoe Rim Trail heading south. (Be careful crossing Luther Pass Road.) After a lovely ride through the big meadow, the trail starts to climb through tall trees to end at Round Lake. There are some places to get the horses to the water; otherwise, enjoy a little snack break before heading back down.
For additional mileage, you can add on a spur trail to nearby Dardanelles Lake. This makes for a total ride of just under 10 miles. Of course you can also continue on the TRT for as many miles as you feel inspired!
Spooner to Marlette
This (roughly 9-mile one-way) section of the Tahoe Rim Trail connects Spooner and Marlette Lake, climbing from forests to bald slopes with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. It features steep elevation gain and some moderately technical sections such as sharp drop-offs, dizzying heights, and boulders. Read more: Spooner to Marlette Lake Trail.
Explore the Complete Guide to Riding the Tahoe Rim Trail
Trail basics, permits and regulations, maps, trailer parking, suggested day rides, thru-riding info and everything else you need to plan your adventure.
