Lake Tahoe & Sacramento: A Golden Sierra Getaway | Bike Tour

DAY 1: Welcome to California! Settle into your hotel in the historic district of Old Sacramento, where wooden sidewalks, Victorian architecture, and riverfront views create a unique blend of past and present. 

We’ll gather for an orientation and bike fitting and take a short riverside bike ride. Then we’ll explore the renowned California State Railroad Museum, one of the most impressive collections of locomotives and rail history in the country. Later, we’ll enjoy a relaxing dinner, the perfect chance to get to know your fellow riders, ease into the week, and start soaking in the spirit of adventure. 10 miles, ±80’.

Day 2: Our first full day on two wheels begins with one of the most beloved bike paths in the state, the American River Trail. This car-free, paved path winds through oak groves and meadows, along the shimmering river, and to the charming town of Fair Oaks. 

We'll enjoy a relaxed picnic in the park, perhaps with the company of the village’s famous free-range chickens, before continuing east along the river to the historic town of Folsom. The trail delivers us right into Old Folsom, where you’ll have time to explore the lively boutiques and cafés along Sutter Street, an inviting blend of Gold Rush history and modern charm. 33 miles ±830’.

DAY 3: Today, we trade the river for the mountains. After breakfast, we’ll shuttle up into the Sierra Nevada Mountains, climbing into fresh alpine air and forested landscapes. We’ll make a scenic stop at Donner Pass before stretching our legs on a memorable hike through the historic Donner Lake train tunnels. These rock-hewn tunnels, once part of the transcontinental railroad, offer a cool, otherworldly walk with dramatic lake views. After lunch, we’ll head to Tahoe City, our home for the rest of the tour. 0 miles biking, 2 hours hiking.

DAY 4: Today’s scenic out-and-back ride follows 95% paved bike paths, offering a smooth and peaceful journey through pine forests and along the brilliant blue shoreline of Lake Tahoe. We’ll begin on the Dollar Creek Shared Use Path, passing quiet woodlands before continuing south along the western shore. 

Gentle climbs, sweeping lake vistas, and shaded descents will make this one of the most enjoyable rides of the week. We’ll stop in Sugar Pine Point State Park to admire the elegant Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, then continue to Meeks Bay, a tranquil cove of turquoise waters and sandy beaches, perfect for our picnic before we return to Tahoe City. 34 miles, ±1678’.

DAY 5: Today is a beautiful, history-filled ride in the mountains. We’ll start by following the scenic Truckee River and Olympic Valley Bike Trails, winding between pine forests and alpine meadows with the Truckee River sparkling beside us. We’ll skip a short section of highway miles with a shuttle to Donner Memorial State Park, where we’ll explore its Visitor Center and the Pioneer Monument. 

Then it’s back on our bikes to cycle the shoreline of Donner Lake, framed by granite cliffs and evergreens. You can stop in Truckee for lunch on your own and to browse Main Street before continuing on the Martis Valley Trail. A quick shuttle at the end of the ride will return everyone to Tahoe City. 27 miles ±1111’.

DAY 6: Our final ride showcases the stunning Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. After a short shuttle, we’ll pedal through the picturesque neighborhoods of Incline Village and onto the Tahoe East Shore Trail, celebrated as “America’s Most Beautiful Bikeway.” This smooth, scenic path hugs the shoreline with sweeping views of Tahoe’s cobalt-blue water and surrounding peaks. 

Once at Sand Harbor State Park, we’ll enjoy lunch and a guided kayaking excursion among the pines and sculpted granite boulders. We’ll learn about the birds and wildlife that call North America’s largest alpine lake home. Then it’s back on the bikes to retrace our route to Incline Village. It’s a perfect finale of lakeside serenity and alpine beauty. 16 miles ±909’.

DAY 7: After one last breakfast together, we’ll board our shuttle back to the Sacramento airport, arriving by 12:30 pm. You’ll leave with strong legs, new friendships, and unforgettable memories of a week spent chasing beauty on two wheels. 0 miles.