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$3,949

Per Person

CALIFORNIA/NEVADA | Mountain Bike Tour

LAKE TAHOE & THE LOST SIERRAS

Daylong Singletrack Descents

Mountain Biking

Families with Older KidsPrivate Tours and Custom ToursSolos, Couples & Friends
Departure: Reno, NV
Tour Offered: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Departs On: Monday

Duration: 5 Days
Lodging: Casual & Luxury Inns & Restaurants
Fitness Level: 3-5
Technical Level: 3-5
Elevation Range: 3,000 - 9,000 ft.

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Overview

Bicycling Magazine named our Lake Tahoe/Sierras mountain bike tour as one of the “Fifty Best Trips on the Planet!” We see it simply as 30 plus years of business coupled with an extraordinary High Country landscape.

This five-day epic gets underway with a shuttle to Lake Tahoe State Park and Spooner Lake. Our first days’ ride ranges through waves of stunning wildflower meadows, gliding into Aspen-covered hills and vibrantly dabbed upslope. From that colorful introduction to The Sierras, we transition straight into a masterpiece: the Flume Trail, critically hailed as one of the premier rides in The West.

The following two days we up the tempo and vary the terrain. Sweeping through the tall forests that cradle Lake Tahoe on fast singletrack, we drop into a host of hidden lakes, ultimately hooking up with the dazzling Tahoe Rim Trail. Yes, you’ve definitely found fat tire Eden.

One day we’re carving Mt. Watson’s tastiest trails, thoroughly enjoying an all-day revel of descents. The next, it’s a more tranquil and meditative half-day out of the saddle, immersing ourselves as John Muir would: with a hike to Tahoe’s shoreline.

Now let’s dive into the details. A number of these signature routes rise above 7,000 feet. A peak climb of this caliber requires healthy lungs. Rest assured, the incomparable qualities that define the Tahoe Lost Sierra singletrack, set against stunning Alpine backdrops make the effort all worth it.

“The mighty Sierra, miles in height and so gloriously colored, so radiant, it seemed not clothed with light but wholly composed of it, like the wall of some celestial city.” – John Muir

Day 1 | Spooner Lake and The Flume
After a meet-up in Reno, we shuttle to 14,300-acre Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, at a heady 7874-ft elevation. After orientation and introductions, we commence our first ride—The Flume Trail. Talk about a perfect bomb voyage! Besides unparalleled views of Lake Tahoe, Flume packs in moderately challenging climbs along with exhilarating, descents down a bygone flume chute. Kicking off at Spooner Lake – northeast of Incline Village—we lock into a four-and-a-half mile long, 1000-foot climb into the Carson mountain range. From the 8157-ft. summit at Marlette Saddle, greeted by swaying Lodgepole pine, our routing segues into the Flume Trail. Now 1600-ft. above the blue-green jewel known as Lake Tahoe, but only a half-mile distant, we sweep past Marlette Lake. A three-mile, 1500-ft descent to Tunnel Creek Road ultimately ends at the trailhead. Our support van waits there; poised to shuttle a contented group of cyclists to their inspired après moment at Northstar Resort, closing out their first day with no less than a High Country classic.
Day 2| Northstar and Mt. Watson
Care to get wonderfully sidetracked? A big house of groove, the Northstar Mountain Resort folds plush singletrack into cross-country epics, wide-in-the-hips downhill into all manner of buff trail. Soon as the snow melts, Northstar seamlessly transitions into the largest, lift-access mountain bike park in Northern California. From an easy-on-the-joints pleasure cruise with the family, to a get-acquainted technical descent on Sticks N’ Stones, or the venerated Boondocks trail… or catching air on the rollers of Livewire and Gypsy, Northstar is an fantasy of fat tire riches: 33 trails in all. Our guides’ deep intimacy with the sweet spots, interpreting the best, purpose-built trails in the Sierras means out-of-this-world deliverables: an experience that maximizes every thrilling line and topographic variation.
Day 3 | Downieville Downhill
A one-hour shuttle takes us to Downieville, California. An erstwhile gold mining settlement, Downieville comes across as cozy and inviting with a rich history. Dropped into some of the most profound, if charismatic nature California has to offer, we gear up with our friends at Yuba and ride from the nearby Sierra Buttes and Lakes basin, routing along a series of epic trails. Descending from above 8000-ft to 3000-ft., the trails reflect a combo of mostly intermediate, albeit spiced with some advanced segments. Aftera day of world-class downhill, in the heart of the Sierra’s, we trade the big outdoors for some equally pleasurable indoor experience at the Nakoma Resort.
Day 4 | Mt. Hough: Lost Sierra
Today we team up with our good friends at Nakoma Resort. From atop the 7,232-ft. summit of Mt. Hough (pronounced “huff”), we survey and way-find across the densely forested immensity that is the Lost Sierra region. After putting optics on pristine glacial lakes, broad alpine valleys and—on a bluebird day—Lassen Peak looming on the horizon, riders of all abilities will form smiles borne of a fast, flowy and outrageously fun downhill. Suffice to say, Mt. Hough Trail—packing nearly 4,000 feet of vertical descent, spread over 12-miles of purpose-built trail—is a Lost Sierra treasure of incalculable, out of this world value.
Day 5 | Tahoe Rim Trail to Carson City
We go out with a Titan rocket-like bang, saving the Tahoe Rim classic for our finale. Kicking off at 8700-ft., our route sweeps from Incline Village up Tunnel Creek. Sweeping onto the Tahoe Rim, we gain the backcountry of Marlette Lake then along the old Red Flume. A true High Country epic, the Tahoe Rim trail lends big, spanning views not only onto Lake Tahoe but Lake Washoe in Nevada, as well as the Carson Valley. From this vantage point, one can glimpse where the Sierras give way to the Great Basin, America’s largest desert. Pressing on, we sweep past Sunflower Hill, locked onto beautifully groomed sections of singletrack. Two-time national champ and Mountain Bike Hall of Famer Max Jones first cleared this trail in 1987. Finishing on the far side of the mountains in handsome Carson City, we close out with a late lunch at a local landmark restaurant across from Nevada’s State Capitol. At approximately 4 p.m. we return to Reno, and bid each other farewell.

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Lodging

Casual Inn: Tamarack Lodge | Tahoe City, CA

Tamarack Lodge | Escape Adventures Bike Tours

2311 N Lake Blvd
Tahoe City, CA 96145

The Tamarack Lodge has 21 rooms and cabins and nearly 250 full grown pine and fir trees on nearly four acres of land. This family-owned lodge features premium bedding and thick towels, quick access to the trailhead, a short walk from a quiet beach, a picnic area, creek, spring water on tap in your room, and an old outdoor fireplace.

“We stayed here for a weekend and the experience was excellent. The room was clean and had a nice little kitchen. The hosts went above and beyond to help us enjoy our stay. For example, we were waiting for a bus that was late, and Gerard was nice enough to take us down to town himself. I will happily stay here again the next time I need a place to stay in North Lake Tahoe.”
-Mike U

Luxury Inn: Nakoma Resort | Clio, CA

348 Bear Run
Clio, CA 96106

In 2001, the developers of Nakoma Resort revived plans for a clubhouse envisioned by renowned American architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Originally designed in 1923 as a Wisconsin country club that was never constructed, this exquisite teepee-inspired lodge has found its home in the Lost Sierra.

Nakoma’s 1,280-acre property also features The Dragon, an 18-hole golf course designed by Robin Nelson, and Altitude, a 12,000 sq-foot recreation center that includes a game room, an indoor basketball court, a climbing wall, a fitness center, steam rooms, a yoga studio, and numerous other amenities.

While we do our best to bring you the above hotel accommodations, lodging may vary depending on your departure date. Call us at 1.800.596.2953 for more details.

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Activities

This Trip is Rated Fitness Levels 3-5 and Technical Levels 3-5

While every Escape Adventure trip is designed to appeal to active adventure seekers, and in many cases, particular skill levels, there is always a different idea of what that exactly means. That is why we have designed the chart below to help make sure you join the proper tour. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next—and your traveling companions’ may differ as well. We present a range of mileage options on each tour as well as provide support vehicles as much as possible. That way you can take a break and do as little or as much as you would like each day.

Daily Activities
Day	Activity	Easy		Moderate		Seasoned
Day	Activity	Miles	Feet Gain	Miles	Feet Gain	Miles	Feet Gain
Day 1	Mountain Biking			Moderate: 15 Miles	1397 Ft. Gain
Day 2	Mountain Biking	Day Long Descents Northstar and Mt. Watson
Day 3	Mountain Biking			Moderate: 17 Miles	1180 Ft. Gain	Seasoned: 34 Miles	3200 Ft. Gain
Day 4	Mountain Biking			Moderate: 13 Miles	861 Ft. Gain	Seasoned: 20 Miles	1261 Ft. Gain
Day 5	Mountain Biking					Seasoned: 19 Miles	2977 Ft. Gain

Find out more about Choosing a Tour.

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Weather

You will be riding and sleeping at elevations over 4,000 ft. for this trip. Weather predictions in this area are often unreliable due to the elevation, so it is best to be prepared for cold evenings and inclement weather. Please use the following locations when checking the weather online: South Lake Tahoe, Calistoga, Guerneville, Markleeville

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All-Inclusive Prices

All internal land expenses and services are covered in the cost of your tour. This means from the time we pick you up at our meeting point, until we drop you back off to head home, all transportation, food preparation, meals (except where noted on itineraries), snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, group supplies and community gear (portable chairs, large awnings, coolers, utensils, etc.) are included. Backcountry permits, licenses, park fees, reservations, and accommodations (lodging) are also included, along with at least two professionally trained trip leaders, a mobile first aid and mechanic station, spare bikes, and a support vehicle(s). Trip price does not include airfare, lodging prior to trip start or bicycle rental and/or camping gear (if on a camping tour) unless otherwise noted on itinerary or website.

Renting Bicycles

Not only do we run an international bike tour business, but we also own and operate a premiere bicycle store – www.LasVegasCyclery.com. We have learned over the years that every cyclist is different and prefers different types of bikes for different types of terrain. That is why we offer the best bicycles for rent in the business. If for some reason you are not happy with the quality of your rental, we will refund the cost of your entire bike rental. If you are bringing your bike with you, check with your airline’s baggage policy in advance and be sure to pack your bike accordingly. If you are shipping your bike to your destination, confirm the address with our office and allow enough time for your bike to arrive. We’re happy to help you ship your bike. Whatever you need to get the most out of your tour, we are here to make it happen.

Free With Every Tour

When you join an Escape Adventures tour in 2026, you will receive a FREE custom sublimated Limited Edition Jersey!

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Mountain Bike Rentals

Make your trip as comfortable as possible on the body, as simple as possible for traveling, and hassle free on tour. By choosing to rent a bike from us, we will fit you with the newest, highest quality gear in the industry. Escape Adventures provides only high-end bicycles from Specialized. We replace our rental fleet each season to ensure all our rentals meet our high standards. All of our mountain bikes are equipped with full suspension frames and disc brakes designed for a smooth, comfortable ride. For those who are touring with a companion who may not be as fit or need a little help up the hills, we now have e-bikes (electric pedal assist) available on select tours.
For multi-sport tours, daily bike rental fees are charged on mountain biking days only.

Specialized Full Suspension Mountain Bike ($70/day)

This new Specialized Full Suspension bike is the best bang for your buck! This bike features 140 mm of front and rear travel, which is plenty of cushion to soak up any bump in the trail. Visit the Specialized site for more information. Individual components on rental bikes may vary slightly. Call for more information.

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Why travel with Escape Adventures?

Our Commitment to You

For over 25 years, the hallmark of an Escape Adventures tour is personalized, hands-on service. Before, during, and after each trip. We are a company of honesty and integrity and we stand behind our product 100%. From the moment you learn of our trips, to the time you return home and start planning your next trip, we are here to bring you the best possible experience. From our Guaranteed Trip Departure Confirmation Policy, making sure your trip is never cancelled*, to our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Policy, backing the unrivaled consistent quality of all our tours, our commitment to you is never compromised. * Scheduled Domestic trips only.

Our Commitment to the Environment

Our environmental commitment is second to none. We run our tours the same way we run our company, with an eye on the triple bottom line: People, Profit & Planet. At Escape Adventures, we elected to pursue a more comprehensive approach to actually reduce our carbon footprint, rather than just offset it. We overhauled our entire operation — from our vehicles, to our buildings, to our procedures — to become an outdoor industry leader in the charge to help our people and our planet.

Exceptional Service and Exceptional Guides

Leading tours naturally followed from our passion of exploring our favorite places with our friends. Our support staff includes our reservation team who is there to answer your questions about the tours, our service team who prepares your bike and gear for the tour, and our guide team – the ones who take you into the great outdoors. The highest level of responsibility, good nature, integrity, and dedication are standard traits of all those who work at Escape Adventures. We are proud of it and we think you should know it.

The Best Support Vehicles

Having custom-made vehicles allows us to take you to places few other outfitters can, or will go. Every Escape Adventures tour is accompanied by at least one support vehicle, trailer, and in some cases a second and third transfer van. After purchase, we custom engineer our trucks, vans, and trailers by our on-staff mechanic to meet the unique needs of different tours. For example, certain trucks are specifically designed for The White Rim and The Maze, while others are designed for The Grand Tetons and Yellowstone. Each of our guides is required to be trained in safe vehicle operation, 4X4 driving, and basic maintenance. Our experienced guides make it look easy, transporting you and up to 12 guests, along with their bikes, fresh food, and plenty of drinking water to a remote location.

The Best Bicycles and Gear

Make your trip as comfortable as possible on the body, as simple as possible for traveling, and hassle-free on tour. By choosing to rent a bike from us, we will fit you with the newest, highest quality gear in the industry. Escape Adventures provides only high-end bicycles from Santa Cruz and Specialized. We replace our rental fleet each season to ensure all our rentals meet our standards. All of our mountain bikes are equipped with full suspension frames and disc brakes designed for a smooth, comfortable ride. For those who are touring with a companion who may not be as fit or need a little help up the hills, we now have eMountainbikes (electric pedal assist) available on select tours.

The Best Food

Our food isn’t just good, it’s good for you.

Food is a big part of the Escape Adventures experience. Most dinners and breakfasts are served at local restaurants on our inn tours. We also have energy snacks aboard our support vehicles. Don’t be surprised if your guides purchase fresh fruits and healthy snacks throughout the day while you are out riding. They may just show up on the trail with a local treat! Many of our guests are vegans or vegetarians, whom we are more than happy to accommodate. If you have special diet requirements or limitations, just let us know when you sign-up and we’ll work with you to meet your needs.

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