By Tim Hauserman
I’ve been enjoying mountain biking in the Tahoe and Truckee areas for over twenty years, but realized when I made my first trip to the dirt trails near Tahoe Donner Cross-Country that there are always more trails to discover. We found sparkling views of Frog Lake Cliffs and waves of wildflowers. There were steady climbs on dirt roads, and flowing single track with a seemingly endless string of switchbacks. It was fun, accessible and whatever you wanted it to be.
I connected with a Truckee friend to show me the ropes, but you can wander around and make your own pathway without much danger of getting lost, especially if you have skied a few times at Tahoe Donner. I’ve spent many winter days huffing and puffing my way up Sundance and across the northern face of Hawk’s Peak on my skis, but this was a first on a bike. The climb seems easier on wheels, but the views are equally sublime. We made our way to Hasting’s Crossing where tucked away in the trees we found the Mother Lode Trail, a single track designed for mountain biking. It was a series of flowing rolling turns winding it’s way down the steep slope. While some of the hairpin turns were near the edge of my ability to roll through on this first trip, the trail was smooth and a blast to ride. Next time I’m going to nail it! Before we knew it the trail dropped us onto Firewalker, where another single track, Hidden Gem, began on the other side.This one was narrower and a bit more rocky, but still delightfully rideable. It traversed through fields of mule ears and lupine at the peak of lushness. Take the time to stop to take a gander at the amazing mountain vistas.
Then bada bing, bada boom, we were in Euer Valley, where a quick jaunt across the meadow led to a dirt road opening up a whole new set of riding opportunities. Take your pick based on your time and energy level, knowing that eventually you do need to climb back out of the valley and make your way back to the lodge.
Trailhead: Start out wherever you live in Tahoe Donner, or at the Cross-Country Lodge and find your level of fun and adventure. Look for maps at several intersections.
THINK OF ME, LYNN RICHARDSON, FOR ALL OF YOUR LAKE TAHOE AND TRUCKEE REAL ESTATE NEEDS!
YOUR FRIEND IN HIGH PLACES 
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