The best cycling routes around Sunnyside-Tahoe City
4.6
(11)
456
riders
15
rides
Touring cycling around Sunnyside-Tahoe City features routes that navigate the western shores of Lake Tahoe and follow the Truckee River. The terrain includes paved bikeways, designated trails, and some gravel paths, offering a mix of surfaces for touring cyclists. Elevation changes are present, with some routes featuring moderate climbs and descents. The region is characterized by its proximity to the lake, river corridors, and surrounding forested areas.
Best touring cycling routes around Sunnyside-Tahoe City
- The most popular touring cycling routeβ¦
Last updated: April 25, 2026
5.0
(2)
102
riders
24.0km
01:23
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
47
riders
36.3km
02:07
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
riders
57.5km
04:14
790m
790m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
25.1km
01:34
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
14.7km
01:01
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Sunnyside-Tahoe City
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Tips from the Community
Very Nice and Easy trail for all, ride it from Tahoe City all the way to Palisades if you like. beautiful scenery and views along the Truckee River.
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This waterfront area at Lake Tahoe Park is known as William Kent Beach. It's common to spot boats out on the waters of the lake from here, and you can also find a restroom and water fountain.
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At the terminus of the West Shore Trail is Meeks Bay Resort, in Meeks Bay. This area has a sandy beach with crystal-clear waters and camping facilities. Historically, this area was owned by John Meeks in the 1800s, where it got the name we know today. Meeks Bay is now on National Forest land and is managed under a special use permit by the Washoe Tribe.
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Mount Watson Access Road is a fast dirt climb that winds through some old growth forest. When it is dry out, pretty much any bike will work, except maybe your nostalgic 19c tires.... There are nice views along the road, and you feel like you are in the wilderness despite being minutes away from Tahoe City.
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Sherwood Express is the only lift on Alpine Meadows Ski Resort's "backside" or south side. It is usually the last to open and the first to close during the season due to it being the sunniest spot on the mountain. This is the backside entrance to the resort, with only a few parking spots; only the lucky ones will nab them in the morning.
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Alpine Meadows at Palisades Tahoe is known as the "spring skiing capital of the world" because of its notably long ski season. This resort is connected to her sister resort with a brand new Base to Base Gondola, an aerial tram that travels 1.5 miles from Palisades Tahoe ski resort in Olympic Valley to here in Alpine Meadows. This basin is also known for its intense avalanches in the winter, but they are well managed by the ski patrol. Sometimes this road is temporarily closed in the winter due to avalanche bombing.
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This waterfront area at Lake Tahoe Park is known as William Kent Beach. It's common to spot boats out on the waters of the lake from here, and you can also find a restroom and water fountain.
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Olympic Valley is a famous alpine ski resort, Palisades Tahoe (formerly called Squaw Valley). The name was changed in 2021 after backlash and controversy. Here, visitors can find a European-style town with fun bars, events, live music, yoga studios, shopping, and restaurants. One favorite local pubs is The Slot Bar. Palisades is a large resort that has 42 lifts and 270 trails. Just as beautiful in the summer, there are hiking trails, waterfalls, and amazing scenery here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Sunnyside-Tahoe City?
There are 15 touring cycling routes available around Sunnyside-Tahoe City, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists of all levels.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Sunnyside-Tahoe City offers 5 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for a smooth ride is the Tahoe-Pyramid Bikeway, which follows a dedicated bikeway.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in the area?
For more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 4 difficult routes. Consider the Tahoe City to Truckee gravel loop, which covers 35.7 miles (57.5 km) and includes varied terrain with gravel sections.
Are there touring cycling routes that offer scenic views of Lake Tahoe?
Absolutely. The West Shore Trail is a moderate 22.5 miles (36.3 km) path that runs along the western shore of Lake Tahoe, providing continuous lake views. You can also find stunning vistas like View of Lake Tahoe from Eagle Rock along some routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Sunnyside-Tahoe City?
The routes feature a mix of paved bikeways, designated trails, and some gravel paths. You'll find options that navigate the western shores of Lake Tahoe and follow the Truckee River, with elevation changes ranging from moderate climbs to descents.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Sunnyside-Tahoe City?
The best time for touring cycling in Sunnyside-Tahoe City is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October), when the weather is mild, and trails are clear of snow. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and full access to all routes.
Are there any touring cycling routes that follow river corridors?
Yes, several routes follow river corridors. The Truckee River and Alpine Meadows Trail is a great example, offering a moderate 25.1 miles (40.4 km) ride alongside the Truckee River.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Sunnyside-Tahoe City?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 15 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from lake shore paths to river trails and gravel routes, and the beautiful scenery of Lake Tahoe and its surroundings.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling?
Yes, you can explore various attractions. Along your rides, you might encounter highlights such as Squaw Valley, Painted Rock, or the serene Five Lakes. Many routes also pass through or near Tahoe City itself.
Are there any loop routes for touring cyclists?
Yes, the Tahoe City to Truckee gravel loop is a prominent example of a circular route, offering a comprehensive experience of the region's varied landscapes.
Can I find routes that start near Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge?
Yes, there is a route specifically named Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge to Sherwood Express, which is a moderate 9.1 miles (14.7 km) ride, perfect for starting your adventure directly from Sunnyside.
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