Pedal pushers unite! While cycling is a fantastic solo activity, it becomes even more enjoyable when you join a larger tour. This provides you a chance to meet like-minded individuals of various groups and ages, fostering camaraderie along the way. While some of these epic bike tours of the Sierra may have a competitive aspect, they primarily serve as powerful motivation to push your personal limits. Whether gravel, dirt, or pavement, these bike rides are a great way to see the Sierra in a different light.
America’s Most Beautiful Ride
South Lake Tahoe
June 2nd, 2024
Learn more about America’s Most Beautiful Ride
As the name alludes, this bike ride offers you the chance to pedal every single mile around the stunning jewel of the Sierra – Lake Tahoe. Beginning in Stateline, the route circumnavigates the lake clockwise. Prepare to be amazed by jaw-dropping views, including the iconic Emerald Bay, while tackling over 4,024 vertical feet of elevation gain along the way! And if the 72-mile journey isn’t challenging enough, there’s more. Ride the Highway 89 bike trail to Truckee and back, completing a cool century (100-mile) ride before returning to the starting point.
More into dirt? Check out the Tahoe Mountain Bike Festival on June 22nd which includes Tahoe’s Triple Crown, covering 25+ miles and over 4,800’+ vert of climbing.
Truckee Tahoe Gravel
Truckee
June 29th, 2024
Learn more about the Truckee Tahoe Gravel
One of Truckee’s premier adventure races, the Truckee Tahoe Gravel was launched in 2018 by 3-time world road racing champion Peter Sagan. This gravel ride offers a great introduction to the myriad of gravel grinding opportunities around Truckee. While the main event takes place on a single day, the entire weekend is packed with fun activities for the whole family, including live music, craft beer, local cuisine, and vendor expo.
Love To The Locals
This signature Truckee race understands that without local support it wouldn’t exist. Visit Truckee-Tahoe is excited to offer a 20% discount on race registration for Truckee-Tahoe locals. To learn more about this discount, visit the Visit Truckee-Tahoe website.
While it can’t be called a beginner route, the Truckee Tahoe Gravel offers a shorter race with its 26-mile rollout. Seeking a bigger challenge? The medium 67-mile course and the XL course spanning 104 miles provide ample opportunities to test your mettle.
Death Ride
Markleeville
July 13th, 2024
Learn more about the Death Ride
With a rich history dating back to the 1970s, the Death Ride stands as the ultimate test for any road cycling fiend. This one-day race boasts a staggering elevation gain of 14,000 feet, which averages out to over 135 feet of climbing per mile. The 103-mile course features six rated climbs across three mountain passes nestled deep in Alpine County. Only two miles from the historic town of Markleeville, these mountain passes include:
- Monitor Pass at 8,314 feet
- Ebbetts Pass at 8,730 feet
- Carson Pass at 8,580 feet
Feeling Daunted?
Fear not. Preparation is key for such a feat. The Death Ride Tour, in collaboration with Alta Alpina Cycling Club, devised a series to help cyclists train effectively. With four dates starting from May 4th, these events tackle various Sierra mountain passes, allowing participants to familiarize themselves with the terrain and hone their skills in preparation for one of the great bike tours of the Sierra.
Mammoth Gran Fondo
Mammoth Lakes
September 7th, 2024
Learn more about the Mammoth Gran Fondo
Emerging from the legacy of the renowned Mammoth Cycling Classic of the 1980s and early 1990s. The Mammoth Gran Fondo was born in 1994. Even today, you’ll witness some of those cycling legends taking on this iconic race. What sets this event apart is its remote setting. Spanning 102 miles, you’ll encounter only one stoplight on the route but an abundance of breathtaking views. Everywhere you turn, you’re greeted by unobstructed vistas of majestic peaks of the Sierra and White Mountains towering over 12,000’+ in height. It’s no wonder Bicycling Magazine has hailed it as one of the top ten century bike rides.
Over the 102+ mile journey, you’ll conquer a healthy 6,800’+ of climbing, starting from an elevation of 8,000′. With the added mix of high altitude, expect an exhilarating challenge. For those seeking a less demanding option, the organizers offer two alternatives: the Medio at 70 miles and the Piccolo at 40 miles.
But Don’t Rush To Leave
After months of training and a grueling day of pedaling, take some time to bask in the beauty surrounding you. To assist you in extending your stay especially after one of these bike tours of the Sierra, here’s a list of five compelling reasons to linger a few extra days in Mammoth Lakes.
Author: Alex Silgalis
Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
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