The best cycling routes in El Dorado County

Embark on an easy touring cycling adventure along the South Tahoe Bikeway, a route that winds through the scenic Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. This pleasant ride offers continuous views of Lake Tahoe's turquoise waters and the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, often passing through towering fir, pine, and aspen trees. You will cover 7.3 miles (11.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 144 feet (44 metres), making it an accessible journey that takes about 40 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that the South Tahoe Bikeway is composed of several segments. You might find yourself navigating through calm neighborhood streets to connect different parts of the route, ensuring a continuous ride. Along some of the beach-side sections, you will discover convenient amenities like restrooms and various food options. Consider a water taxi ride if you wish to bypass busier highway sections and extend your exploration of the area.

The South Tahoe Bikeway provides a unique opportunity to experience the diverse natural environment of Lake Tahoe. As you cycle, you might pass marshy areas, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains and a chance to visit the Taylor Creek Visitor Center. The route also leads to beautiful sandy beaches, such as El Dorado Beach, providing perfect spots to pause and enjoy the stunning lakeside scenery.

Embark on the Tahoe Mountain Loop, a difficult touring cycling route that challenges you with 14.6 miles (23.5 km) of diverse terrain. You will climb 1824 feet (556 metres) over an estimated 2 hours and 27 minutes, experiencing everything from smooth, medium-steep ascents to rocky descents and flowy singletrack. The route offers spectacular panoramic views, including vistas of Christmas Valley and Pyramid Peak, culminating in 360-degree views from the summit of Tahoe Mountain overlooking South Lake Tahoe City.

When planning your ride, be aware that the trail can become very muddy, particularly during the spring months. Parking is generally available near the starting point in South Lake Tahoe, making access straightforward. The newly re-routed singletrack sections also provide several loop options, allowing you to customize your touring cycling experience based on your preferences.

This loop stands out for its unique blend of challenging terrain and stunning natural beauty within the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. Beyond the physical challenge, you will witness the changing colors of Lake Tahoe and gain a unique perspective of the region from Tahoe Mountain's summit. It's a rewarding ride for those seeking a robust touring cycling adventure with memorable scenery.

The El Dorado Trail offers a fascinating touring cycling adventure through the Sierra Nevada foothills, blending historical routes with diverse natural beauty. You'll pedal through oak-studded hills, open meadows, and shaded forests, encountering apple orchards and rural scenes with farm animals. This moderate route spans 13.1 miles (21.1 km) with 749 feet (228 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete, making it a rewarding ride for those who enjoy varied scenery.

Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight regarding your bike choice. The eastern end, particularly from Camino to Placerville, is mostly paved and suitable for road bikes, while west of Placerville, the trail transitions to challenging single-track dirt, ideal for mountain or gravel bikes. The trail provides access to Placerville Historic Downtown, perfect for a post-ride exploration of Gold Rush history. Parking and access points for the El Dorado Trail bike route are available along its length.

This trail follows the historic paths of the Southern Pacific and Michigan-California Railroads, giving it a unique character. A highlight is the impressive Weber Creek trestle, offering expansive views as you cross. The El Dorado Trail is envisioned as a multi-use pathway connecting the entire length of El Dorado County, showcasing California's rich history and natural features along El Dorado Trail.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride along the Union Valley Bike Trail, a paved route stretching 11.9 miles (19.2 km) with a total elevation gain of 670 feet (204 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 1 hour and 16 minutes. As you pedal, you will enjoy continuous views of the Union Valley Reservoir, with the path often skirting its shoreline and offering glimpses of the water through the dense forest canopy. The trail provides a smooth experience, making it ideal for a relaxed ride. You will also cross several creeks via bridges, adding to the scenic variety.

This two-lane paved trail is perfect for road or touring bicycles, ensuring a comfortable ride. You will find convenient access points as the route connects multiple campgrounds located on the east side of Union Valley Reservoir. These campgrounds offer amenities and possibilities for overnight stays if you plan a longer trip. The abundant forest canopy provides ample shade, which is particularly welcome on sunny days, contributing to a pleasant riding experience throughout your visit.

Beyond the scenic beauty, the Union Valley Bike Trail offers more than just a ride; it provides insights into the area's natural resources. Look out for interpretive signs placed along the route, which explain the significance of the water resources in the region. In late summer, when water levels in the reservoir are lower, you might even discover sandy beaches along the shoreline, adding a unique element to your exploration of the Eldorado National Forest.

Embark on an easy touring cycling adventure along the Browns Ravine Trail, a 5.5-mile (8.8 km) route that offers picturesque views as it winds alongside Folsom Lake. You will experience a gentle ride through a beautiful forest, with the path featuring rolling, meandering singletrack and some doubletrack sections. The trail gains 239 feet (73 metres) in elevation and takes about 42 minutes to complete, making it a perfect option for a quick outing. Keep an eye out for the Brown's Ravine Recreation Area, a key landmark along the lake, as you enjoy the varied terrain. This route provides a serene cycling experience with constant scenic backdrops.

Before you head out, be aware that the Browns Ravine Trail is an unpaved path, so you should expect varying surfaces, including dirt sections. While the route is generally accessible, its official status for touring cyclists has seen changes over time. As of September 2024, certain modifications are still pending federal approval before the trail is formally opened for cycling. It is important to verify the current bike access status for the Browns Ravine Trail before planning your visit to ensure a smooth experience. This will help you prepare for any specific conditions or regulations.

Located within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, the Browns Ravine Trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty surrounding Folsom Lake. The route is known for its blend of forest scenery and open lake views, providing a diverse backdrop for your ride. This trail stands out as a gentle option for those seeking a relaxing cycling experience in the region. Its proximity to the lake makes it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for an accessible escape.

Imagine a leisurely touring bicycle ride around South Lake Tahoe, where the scenery constantly shifts. This easy 6.6-mile (10.7 km) loop offers expansive views of the lake, especially as you pass South Lake Tahoe Beach. You'll experience a gentle ride with only 92 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, making it perfect for a quick outing. The route blends natural beauty with glimpses of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the lively atmosphere of local neighborhoods. Expect to complete this enjoyable journey in about 37 minutes.

When planning your visit, note that this touring bicycle route primarily follows paved, well-maintained roads, including designated bike lanes and secondary streets. Parking is generally available throughout the South Lake Tahoe area, providing convenient access to the loop. Be aware that sections along Highway 50 can experience significant traffic, particularly during the busy summer months. For a more relaxed experience, consider riding during off-peak hours or seasons.

This loop offers a unique blend of natural and urban environments, showcasing both the stunning Lake Tahoe shoreline and the vibrant local community. As you cycle, you'll transition from serene lake views to bustling shopping districts, providing a comprehensive feel for the South Lake Tahoe area. It's an excellent way to quickly immerse yourself in the diverse character of this popular destination.

Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure along the El Dorado Trail, a route that spans 8.9 miles (14.4 km) and includes a manageable 684 feet (209 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this journey in about 1 hour and 2 minutes, cycling through picturesque oak woodlands and open grassy meadows. Keep an eye out for historic wooden trestle bridges, like the 1903 Weber Creek trestle, which add a unique character to the scenery as you pass through California's Gold Rush country.

When planning your visit, note that while this specific route is ideal for touring bicycles, the broader El Dorado Trail system includes unpaved sections better suited for mountain or gravel bikes. You will find parking readily available at various trailheads along the paved segments, making it easy to begin your ride. Consider starting your tour in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer people on the path.

This trail offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region, winding through landscapes that once buzzed with Gold Rush activity. The route's path through diverse terrain, from shaded woodlands to open fields, showcases the natural beauty of the area. It provides a pleasant way to explore the local environment and its historical significance, offering a unique blend of nature and heritage.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Washoe Meadows and Sawmill Bike Path Loop, covering 8.6 miles (13.8 km) with a gentle 420 feet (128 metres) of elevation gain. This route takes about 50 minutes to complete, offering a diverse cycling experience. You will find smooth paved sections on the Sawmill Bike Path, often shaded by trees, leading to a pleasant stop at Sawmill Pond. Transitioning to the Washoe Meadows Trail, the path becomes more varied, with sections of singletrack and fire road winding through natural meadows. Look out for wildflowers and the serene forest environment as you cycle.

Planning your ride on this loop is straightforward. You can easily access the Sawmill Bike Path with parking available in South Lake Tahoe. While much of the route is accessible, be aware that the Washoe Meadows Trail portion can sometimes have muddy spots or standing water, especially following rain. It is a good idea to check conditions before you head out, ensuring a more enjoyable touring bicycle experience.

The Washoe Meadows and Sawmill Bike Path Loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty within the Lake Tahoe Basin. The Sawmill Bike Path serves as an important connector, linking various community areas and other cycling routes. As you pedal, you can immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems, from shaded forests to open meadows, and keep an eye out for local wildlife. This trail provides a pleasant way to explore the area's natural surroundings.

Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure along the Emerald Bay Inspiration Point via South Tahoe Bikeway. This 8.8-mile (14.1 km) route, with 751 feet (229 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 56 minutes to complete. You will cycle through tall pine forests, encountering steep climbs and descents. The highlight is the iconic Inspiration Point View, offering expansive panoramic views of Lake Tahoe's crystal-clear blue waters. From here, you can spot Fannette Island and the historic Vikingsholm Castle.

When planning your ride, be aware that parking at Inspiration Point can be quite limited. It often gets crowded, especially during peak hours, so an early start is highly recommended to secure a spot. Restrooms are available once you arrive at Inspiration Point, providing a convenient stop during your visit.

This route combines dedicated bike paths with sections of Highway 89, offering a varied cycling experience. As you pedal, you will be treated to truly expansive panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, framed by towering mountains. The trail provides a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty, making it a notable option for exploring Emerald Bay State Park.