Marlette Flume Trail – Marlette Lake loop from Incline Village
Marlette Flume Trail – Marlette Lake loop from Incline Village
4.9
(9192)
9,193
riders
Marlette Flume Trail – Marlette Lake loop from Incline Village
04:37
54.8km
1,070m
Mountain biking
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
6.90 km
Incline Flume Trail Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
18.3 km
Marlette Flume Trail Intersection
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
18.3 km
Marlette Flume Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
26.0 km
Marlette Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
27.5 km
Marlette Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
27.9 km
North Canyon Road
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
45.2 km
Lake Tahoe
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
47.2 km
Tahoe East Shore Trail: Incline Village to Sand Harbor
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
54.8 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
17.7 km
13.7 km
10.9 km
9.26 km
2.14 km
1.11 km
Surfaces
25.7 km
20.6 km
7.91 km
427 m
151 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,490 m)
Lowest point (1,900 m)
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Weather
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Wednesday 24 June
27°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly iconic mountain biking experience that lives up to its 'bucket list' reputation, the Marlette Flume Trail – Marlette Lake loop from Incline Village delivers. This difficult 34.0-mile (54.8 km) route, with 3499 feet (1066 metres) of climbing over an estimated 4 hours and 37 minutes, is a must-do for experienced riders seeking unparalleled views of Lake Tahoe.
What to expect on Marlette Flume Trail – Marlette Lake loop from Incline Village
The journey begins with a significant initial climb of over 1,000 feet, often on doubletrack roads, as you make your way towards Marlette Lake through North Canyon, where you might spot aspen groves. Once you reach the beautiful, high alpine Marlette Lake, the Marlette Flume Trail itself transforms into predominantly singletrack, offering a mostly flat and flowy ride. However, be prepared for some challenging sections, including rocky parts, narrow passages, and soft, sandy spots of decomposed granite that demand focus. The trail offers expansive panoramas of Lake Tahoe, often riding 1,800 feet above the lake's edge, with the deep royal blue water contrasting against white stone and sand trails lined with pine trees and manzanita. The descent back towards Incline Village on Tunnel Creek Road is a thrilling 3-mile, 1,500-foot downhill on a double track, making this route best for intermediate to difficult mountain bikers comfortable with exposure and sustained climbs.
Planning your visit
The Marlette Flume Trail is a popular route, so planning ahead is key. While the full loop involves a strenuous initial climb, shuttle services are available to bypass much of the uphill, making the Flume Trail section primarily a descent and reducing the overall difficulty. The trail is frequently cited as a 'must-do' ride, attracting riders globally, so expect company, especially during peak season. Always carry enough water, as sections can be exposed, and be aware of the significant exposure along a benched cliff edge on the Flume Trail itself.
Trail details
- Distance: 34.0 miles (54.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 3499 feet (1066 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 37 minutes
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