Spanning 400 miles, California’s High Sierra is a powerhouse of a mountain range: not only is it the longest in the lower 48, it is also home to the highest number of peaks. But this broad sweep, that cleaves nearly the entirety of the Golden State, is more than just a mammoth geological structure, it is an iconic presence.
Our tour draws inspiration from the poet famous for his love of the High Sierras, John Muir. Inhaling endless High Country horizon from a fast and nimble road bike or one of our eBikes, we steadily climb some of the loftiest, lightly traveled passes in the Sierra Nevada; riding in the long ago slipstream of Jedediah Smith, the aforementioned Muir, John Fremont, Mark Twain, and countless 19th century immigrants.
From an immersion in the rich Western lore of California’s gold country and the Comstock Lode, we literally hug some of the oldest and grandest trees on Earth, the giant Sequoia: the biggest and best of the last.
Filling lungs all the while pushing legs, we lose and find ourselves simultaneously. Feeling the sustained grandeur, the delicately harmonized magnitude in “those measureless mountain days” Muir reveled in. “Days in whose light everything seems equally divine, a thousand windows onto God.” Hallelujah.
“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 1-2: Meet-up in “The Biggest Little City in The World”: Reno. Shuttle to/lunch in the lush grass valleys around Markleville, California. Climb to Monitor Pass. Southeast of Lake Tahoe, this 13-mile ascent overlooks the Western side of the Great Basin. Wend toward Walker; and ultimately, a layover in Coleville, all postcard perfect Midcentury Modern charm and open road romance. Next, ride from Walker to Dardanelle with a climb to the Sonora summit – the second highest pass in The Sierra then descend for miles along one of the original immigrant routes during the 1840s and 50sFinish the day at Pinecrest, on the banks of Pinecrest Lake. Day 3-4: Ride to Murphy, the “Queen of The Sierras”. A gold mining settlement turned haute wine destination—no less than 25 different tasting rooms. Sweep into the town of Sonora. Located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Sonora—named for the Sonoran miners who settled the City in 1848—has held fast to its historic charm. Vestiges of the town’s mining and logging legacy, many of Sonora’s buildings date back to the 1800s. Overnight in historic Murphy’s in the Stanislaus National Forest, one of our oldest (established in 1897). Ride to Avery, gateway to the Calaveras Big Trees State Park. This 390-acre preserve, the smallest within the US Forest Service nonetheless packs enormous visual impact, if not great spiritual lift by virtue of its two giant Sequoias groves – The world’s largest tree. Our day culminates in the high alpine town of Bear Valley- midway between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park. Day 5: Climb to the top of the 8751-ft Ebbetts Pass. Then, a beautiful epic descent along the 131-mile long Carson River—where Grizzly Adams trapped beaver and fished for cutthroat trout in 1860—resolves into Grover State Park. A series of natural hot springs gives way to a swimming complex. After lunch in Markleeville, we shuttle back to Reno.
Accommodations may vary depending on your departure date. Call us at 1.800.596.2953 for more details.
Night 1: Meadowcliff Lodge | Coleville, CA
110437 US-395
Coleville, CA 96107
Meadowcliff Lodge is located just south of Topaz Lake Nevada surrounded by the beautiful Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, centrally located between Yosemite National Park (to the south) and Reno Nevada (to the north). Guests enjoy activities such as: world-class trout fishing along the Walker River, hiking, off-roading, ATVing, horseback riding, beautiful spring and fall colors. The lodge motel has 20 large and comfortable rooms. an on-site restaurant serves up the best country breakfast in Mono County Wednesday through Sunday and offers a full cook-to-order menu.
“Clean and beautiful. This was just a wonderful place all around. It was so clean and I am REALLY fussy! The grounds were beautiful, the room was big and comfortable, and the people were extremely friendly! Taking a nighttime stroll was my favorite. It had a sliding door to an outside patio with a table and chairs. Just a perfect stopping point on our way home from Yosemite.”
-Barnumberone
Night 2: Pinecrest Lake Resort | Pinecrest, CA
421 Pinecrest Lake Rd
Pinecrest, CA 95364
Pinecrest Lake Resort is the closest lodging to Pinecrest Lake and the closest AAA approved lodging facility to Dodge Ridge Ski Area. Motel Rooms at Pinecrest Lake Resort are new and updated, featuring two queen sized beds, bathroom with shower and tub combination, cable television and daily maid service.
“Beautiful scenery, wonderful walking paths, amazing lake. I went for an hour cause I was in the area on a work trip and had some time to kill, it was snowing when I went and it was super pretty. It’s worth your time, and you can walk around the lake. I love the fact that it’s sorrounded by amazing mountains and the drive itself is worth it, it’s super pretty drive and you feel totally out there in nature. I’m planning to come back. You can camp here in summer and rent cabins in the winter!”
-Josiah H.
Night 3: Murphys Inn Motel | Murphys, CA
76 Main St
Murphys, CA 95247
Murphys Inn is conveniently located on Main Street at the North end of Murphys, California. While walking the streets of Murphys you may enjoy many wine tasting rooms, eateries, apparel, gift and antique shops, art galleries, and specialty stores. Guest rooms include a microwave, mini fridge, coffee maker, individual climate control, 40 inch flat panel TV with satellite and 4 free HBO channels, radio alarm clock, iron with board, hairdryer, tub/shower combination, and a separate bath and vanity.
“Second time I’ve stayed at Murphys Inn and once again completely satisfied with everything. This Inn is the best in comfort, quality and service. Enjoyed being your quest for the weekend. My thanks to the staff :-)”
-nsgw91
Night 4: Tamarack Lodge at Bear Valley | Bear Valley, CA
18278 CA-4
Bear Valley, CA 95223
The Tamarack Lodge at Bear Valley is a Family owned, Family run, Family Friendly Lodge, located on scenic Highway 4 near Bear Valley and 22 miles east of Arnold, 3 miles west of Bear Valley Village.
“Relaxed and cozy getaway at Bear Valley. Tim and Vicky are amazing hosts: from helping you put the chains on your car to setting up bonfires at night for the children’s smores. There are several acres of winter wonderland behind the lodge that include a sledding hill, ice patches for gliding, and enough creeks and forest to explore the outdoors and feel like you’re lost in the woods.”
-213suzana
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.
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
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 two premiere bicycle stores – www.LasVegasCyclery.com and www.MoabCyclery.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 2024, you will receive a FREE custom sublimated Limited Edition Jersey!
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 bikes meet our high standards. All of our bikes are equipped with carbon fiber 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.
Nite Ize Wraptor Smart Phone Mount
Look Ma, no hands! Stay connected and safe with this “game-changer” mobile accessory. The Wraptor gives you full screen visibility and holds your phone safe and securely, even over rough terrain. It’s designed to quickly attach and detach from the bar, and the base rotates between landscape and portrait mode with ease. It’s a must-have if you want to spend less time fiddling with your device and more time pedaling your bike.
NiteRider Lumina Micro 650 and Sabre 80 Combo
It’s lit! When it comes to bike safety, illumination is key. Even when you are on the road in the daytime, you need to be seen from all directions. So we’ve teamed up with NiteRider to offer the best daytime lighting for your ride. Each road bike is equipped with a headlight and a taillight with the proper lumen output and run time to keep you safe from every angle.
Specialized Roubaix Disc ($65/day)
Specialized has perfected the road bike. Ride confidently and comfortably for longer distances on any of our trips around the world. All of our bikes are equipped with the latest components and our 2019 models include disc brakes.
Specialized Sirrus Hybrid ($50/day)
Specialized hybrid bikes are the most comfortable bikes available. Our most popular bike for multi-sport and moderate road bike tours is the proven Sirrus. This bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. This bike sits upright, is equipped with a very comfortable seat, and the gearing has a wide range of speeds.
Specialized Tero Hybrid E-Bike ($70/day)
For those of you who have always wanted to join a bike tour but feared your fitness would hold you or the group back, fear no more. Our incredible e-bike option allows you to do more, go twice as fast and far. The all new Specialized Tero has one goal and one goal only—to inspire you to get out, get moving, and to have some fun along the way. E-bike available on most casual and luxury inn trips for an additional price.
Specialized Turbo Creo E-Bike ($100/day)
Take a deep breath, turn on the power and enjoy a beautiful adventure on the all new Escape Adventure’s Electric Road Bike. The new road E-Bike from Escape Adventures now allows you to travel further distances and explore new areas. The pedal assisted technology also allows beginner and novice riders to join in on more challenging routes and terrain.
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 our 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 vehicles are specifically designed for the Canyonlands region of Utah, while others are designed for The Grand Tetons and Yellowstone. Each of our Trip Leaders is required to be trained in safe vehicle operation, 4X4 driving, and basic maintenance. Our experienced Trip Leaders make it look easy, transporting you and up to 12 guests, along with their bikes, fresh food, gear and plenty of drinking water to any 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 Specialized. We replace our rental fleet each season to ensure all our rentals meet our high standards. All of our bikes are equipped carbon fiber 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 ebikes (electric pedal assist) available on select tours.
The Best Food
Our food isn’t just good, it’s good for you.
Food represents a big part of the Escape Adventures experience. On our inn tours most dinners and breakfasts unfold at local favorite restaurants. 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’re enjoying a ride. They may just show up on the trail with a local treat! An increasing number of our guests are vegans or vegetarians, whom we not only accommodate but also pleasantly surprise. Should you possess special diet requirements and/or limitations, just let us know at sign-up. We’ll work with you to meet those critical needs.
The idea of taking your friends or family somewhere cool and amazing is actually pretty easy. Tell us what you’re thinking. We’ll make it happen.
Any trip in this catalog, any specific time frame, any group size, we can custom-fit if not comfortably accommodate. A Custom and Private Escape Adventures trip affords the ultimate bonding, or team-building experience for:
Clubs and co-workers
Family reunions
Corporate retreats
Friends
To shape a Custom or Private Trip, we begin a dialogue: first, to develop a group specific itinerary, tailored to respective abilities and preferred tempo. Next we schedule, bookmarking and working in your optimum or ideal getaway dates. Size-wise, we can build a multi-day trip for as few as two people, scaled up to as many as 30 plus. Contact us today to start the custom trip building process.
Rates on Private and Custom Departures:
All Private Escape Adventures Trips are priced in the structured method below. Some Custom tours are priced differently if they vary from the Classic Escape Adventures itinerary and price. In this situation we will provide your group with a custom itinerary and price.
10+ GUESTS Price as advertised*
8-9 GUESTS +$400 per person to trip price*
6-7 GUESTS +$900 per person to trip price*
4-5 GUESTS +$1,900 per person to trip price*
2-3 GUESTS +$2,500 per person to trip price*
* Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. All private tours on The White Rim must meet a 13 person paid minimum. All private tours on The Maze must meet a 7 person paid minimum.
