Monitor Pass Climb loop from Markleeville Guard Station
Monitor Pass Climb loop from Markleeville Guard Station
3.1
(8)
96
riders
Monitor Pass Climb loop from Markleeville Guard Station
05:43
99.6km
2,360m
Road cycling
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.
After 12.2 km for 28.0 km
Closed: • during winter (otherwise open)
After 40.8 km for 28.0 km
Closed: • during winter (otherwise open)
After 69.0 km for 2.99 km
Closed: • November-May (otherwise open)
After 84.4 km for 2.99 km
Closed: • November-May (otherwise open)
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
35.2 km
Slinkard Valley Little Antelope Wildlife Area
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
40.4 km
Monitor Pass Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Tip by
55.7 km
Monitor Pass
Mountain Pass
78.0 km
Silver Mountain City Stone Jail Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
89.3 km
Mogul Canyon, E Fork Carson River 🌊
Highlight • Canyon
Tip by
99.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
91.8 km
7.10 km
735 m
Surfaces
99.2 km
414 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (2,530 m)
Lowest point (1,550 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 9 July
30°C
10°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
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 epic road cycling challenge with views to match, the Monitor Pass Climb loop from Markleeville Guard Station is one of the Sierra Nevada's most demanding and rewarding routes. This difficult 61.9-mile (99.6 km) loop packs in a staggering 7758 feet (2365 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 5 hours and 42 minutes to complete. It's a serious test for experienced cyclists seeking a monumental day in the saddle.
What to expect on Monitor Pass Climb loop from Markleeville Guard Station
Prepare for a journey through diverse and dramatic landscapes as you tackle this iconic loop. The ride begins in sagebrush valleys, gradually transitioning to dense pine and aspen groves as you climb higher. You'll be treated to expansive views of the valley below from the east side, while the west side offers sweeping High Sierra vistas, extending towards the Mokelumne Peaks, Carson-Iceberg Wilderness, and even Lake Tahoe. The route follows excellent condition two-lane highways with smooth pavement, though the west side has no shoulder; traffic is generally light, making for a safe feel. Expect continuous, tough climbing with narrow, twisting sections and technical turns, especially on the west side where pitches can hit 11.7%. This route is best for strong cyclists who are ready for sustained effort and significant elevation changes.
Planning your visit
This challenging route demands careful planning. The pass is typically closed due to snow from roughly December to May, so the best time to cycle is during the warmer months. Be prepared for dramatic temperature swings with elevation; summers can be extremely hot, while higher altitudes remain cool. Services are minimal to non-existent directly on the climbs, so carry plenty of water and nutrition. Markleeville offers provisions, but cell service can be unreliable once you're off US 395. Parking is available at the Markleeville Guard Station.
Trail details
- Distance: 61.9 miles (99.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 7758 feet (2365 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 5 hours and 42 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free