View of Donner Lake – Truckee Downtown loop from Bermgarten Parking
View of Donner Lake – Truckee Downtown loop from Bermgarten Parking
4.9
(1401)
8,136
riders
View of Donner Lake – Truckee Downtown loop from Bermgarten Parking
02:37
52.0km
800m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. 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 8, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 47.2 km for 163 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
14.2 km
View of Donner Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
15.0 km
Historic Donner Pass Summit ⛰️ Pacific Crest Trail crossing
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
15.4 km
Donner Ski Ranch
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
23.8 km
Serene Lakes
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
42.2 km
Donner Lake Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
47.2 km
Truckee Downtown
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
52.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
41.6 km
9.01 km
1.18 km
188 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
51.6 km
158 m
152 m
123 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,160 m)
Lowest point (1,770 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 10 July
29°C
6°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 27.0 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 road cycling route that combines stunning lake views with historic charm, the View of Donner Lake – Truckee Downtown loop from Bermgarten Parking offers a moderate challenge. This 32.3-mile (52.0 km) ride packs in 2628 feet (801 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 37 minutes. It's a fantastic option for cyclists who appreciate a mix of scenic cruising and a significant climb, all within a historically rich landscape.
What to expect on View of Donner Lake – Truckee Downtown loop from Bermgarten Parking
This road cycling route takes you on a journey around the picturesque Donner Lake, offering continuous views of the water and surrounding alpine landscapes. You'll cruise along paved roads, experiencing both relatively level sections and short rollers on South Shore Drive. The highlight for many is the challenging ascent up the Historic Donner Pass Road, which provides panoramic vistas of the lake and the iconic arched Rainbow Bridge. After soaking in the natural beauty, the route guides you into downtown Truckee, where you can explore its historic charm, hip restaurants, and retail stores. This ride is best suited for road cyclists comfortable with varied terrain, including a strenuous climb, and who enjoy a blend of natural beauty and town exploration.
Planning your visit
While the route name includes Bermgarten Parking, it's important to note that this lot primarily serves mountain biking trails. Road cyclists often find more convenient starting points directly connected to the paved road network, such as Donner Memorial State Park or downtown Truckee itself. Be aware that during peak summer months, Donner Pass Road can have significant motorist and pedestrian traffic. The Donner Pass climb is a true challenge, so plan your energy accordingly. Local shops in the area offer bike rentals if you're visiting without your own.
Trail details
- Distance: 32.3 miles (52.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 2628 feet (801 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 37 minutes
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