Biking in Lake Tahoe & Reno

The Reno Tahoe area offers a wide variety of biking styles, making it easy to find the perfect ride for your interests and skill level.

Road Biking

Paved roads around Reno and Lake Tahoe provide excellent options for long-distance rides and endurance training.

Mountain Biking

With access to expansive trail systems like the Tahoe Rim Trail and Peavine Mountain, mountain bikers can explore everything from beginner-friendly dirt paths to advanced singletrack with steep descents and technical features.

Paved Paths & Greenways

Family-friendly rides are easy to find along paved routes like the Truckee River Bike Path and the Tahoe East Shore Trail. These paths are perfect for leisurely rides, commuting, or sightseeing.

Bike Parks

Lift-served bike parks such as Northstar Bike Park and Kirkwood Mountain Bike Park offer downhill trails, jumps, and skill-building features for riders looking for adrenaline-filled experiences. For more details on which bike park to visit, check out our bike park page featuring top spots!

Lake Tahoe biking is a favorite adventure among locals and visitors, and it’s no surprise why. Riders can choose from gorgeous trails through the pines with magnificent views of the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, to paved bike routes closer to the shoreline.

No matter your skill level or riding style, there’s a trail for you; from challenging, high-mileage routes to easy, leisurely paths perfect for a relaxed ride. Popular Lake Tahoe biking trails include:

• Tour de Tahoe Course: 72-mile route featuring an 800-foot climb and unforgettable lake views
• Tahoe East Shore Trail: A paved 3-mile path connecting Tunnel Creek Cafe to Sand Harbor
• Tahoe Rim Trail & Flume Trail: Offer world-class mountain biking with epic views
• Picnic Rock Vista: a 3-mile round-trip ride for those seeking a simpler and shorter bike route

Biking in Reno offers a mix of bike-friendly paths, dedicated lanes, and miles of accessible mountain terrain. Whether you’re commuting through the city or heading out for a longer ride on desert singletrack, there’s something here for every skill level.

Reno’s bike paths make it easy to cruise through downtown or connect to nearby trail systems for more challenging rides. Popular Reno biking trails include:

• Truckee River Bike Path: A 12-mile route following the Truckee River through scenic parks and downtown
• Peavine Trail System: Offers a network of mountain biking trails just north of downtown with options for all experience levels
• Dry Pond Loop: A ~6-mile loop that takes you through a forest along Whites Creek and Thomas Creek

Spring (March-May)

Lower elevation trails in Reno begin to dry out, making this a great time for desert riding. Higher elevation trails near Lake Tahoe may still have snow.

Summer (June–August)

Peak biking season. Trails in both Reno and Lake Tahoe are fully accessible, including high-elevation routes. Expect warm temperatures in Reno and cooler, refreshing conditions near the lake.

Fall (September–October)

One of the best times to ride. Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and changing foliage make for ideal conditions across both regions.

Winter (November–February)

Snow limits most biking in Lake Tahoe, but Reno’s lower-elevation trails may still be rideable on dry days.

Whether you’re traveling light or trying out a new style of riding, there are plenty of bike rental and gear options throughout Reno and Lake Tahoe.

Reno Spots for Rentals & Gear

If you’re looking to rent a bike, buy your own, or get repairs, Reno has several great options. For a full-service bike shop offering rentals, repairs, parts, and gear, check out:

• High Sierra Cycling
• Black Rock Bicycles

For guided mountain biking and road biking tours to explore the best local trails, you can visit:

• Sierra Adventures

For adaptive cycling needs, the City of Reno offers equipment and access to its Adaptive Cycling Center at the Rosewood Nature Study Area.

Lake Tahoe Spots for Rentals & Gear

There are plenty of options that offer bike rentals in Lake Tahoe throughout the year. For mountain bike rentals and convenient trail access, check out:

• Flume Trail Mountain Bikes – offers mountain bike rentals and a shuttle service to the top of the Flume Trail
• Tahoe Dave’s
• Olympic Bike Shop
• Cyclepaths

Biking in Reno Tahoe is rewarding, but preparation is key to staying safe.

• Stay hydrated: The high-desert climate around Reno can be dry, while the elevation in Lake Tahoe can increase dehydration risk.
• Know your limits: Trails vary widely in difficulty—choose routes that match your experience level.
• Watch the weather: Conditions can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
• Be wildlife aware: You may encounter animals on trails, particularly in forested areas.
• Wear protective gear: Helmets and proper footwear are essential, especially on mountain trails and in bike parks.

Sharing the trail responsibly ensures a great experience for everyone!

• Yield appropriately: Bikers should yield to hikers and horseback riders on multi-use trails.
• Control your speed: Especially on busy paths and blind corners.
• Stay on designated trails: Protect the environment and prevent erosion.
• Announce your presence: Use a bell or call out when passing others.
• Pack it in, pack it out: Keep trails clean and preserve the region's natural beauty.

By following proper etiquette and safety practices, you’ll help maintain Reno Tahoe’s reputation as one of the best biking destinations in the West.