Tahoe Rim Trail to Flume Trail Loop

Posted on August 2, 2011 by Jeff Moser

Not only was summer late getting here this year, but my wife and I found ourselves moving across town just as the season started. Hearing our friends talk about their Lake Tahoe adventures as we spent our weekends in a dirty garage sorting through old junk was getting us down. But finally we were moved, and ready to go play on the trails! It was a celebration. Last weekend Kristy and I headed up to Spooner Summit for a loop on the Tahoe Rim Trail and Flume Trail.

North Canyon

After a leisurely morning of getting the bikes ready, we headed up to Spooner Lake. We were on the trail just after noon, and took our time getting over to North Canyon. Riding up at the Lake is exciting, and sometimes you catch yourself heading out too fast. It’s best to conserve your energy for the climbs that await you though. It was on our initial climb that we had the only “crash” of the day. I was in the middle of the trail, letting Kristy get by me as I rested. As she passed, I swung my body around, hitting her firmly in the shoulder with my backpack. This sent her front wheel up the steep bank, causing her to loose balance and fall over. Oops. “Sorry, sweetie! I’m sure those people up the trail pretending not to look didn’t see a thing!”.

Lush Forest on Hobart Road

When we got to the really steep part at the end of North Canyon, we played mountain bike leap frog. Kristy rode the hill non-stop in the granny gear, and I, being on my single speed, would pass her and then rest. Then she’d pass me again while I was getting my lungs back in my chest. We repeated this sequence all the way up to the saddle above Marlette Lake.

Climbing the very steep Hobart Road

After a nice descent down to Marlette Lake, we just kept riding, heading along the east side of the lake on Hobart Road. The foliage is lush and thick here, and the road was pitted with many mud holes. For a time, it felt like being in New England rather than Nevada. It wasn’t long before we left the deciduous trees though, and climbed up and away from the lake. The road gets really steep here, and I decided that I wasn’t going to get any medals for not putting a foot down. It was time to push my bike. My knees thanked me. This section of trail is under 2 miles, and there are breaks here and there, but I was really looking forward to getting to the top.

Mules Ears on the Tahoe Rim Trail

I’ve done this loop a few times, but always in the clockwise direction. My reasoning was that I didn’t want another big climb immediately following the grueling ascent up North Canyon. After being chastised by a friend though, “You never climb singletrack, and then ride down a road! You did it backwards!”, I decided to toughen up and just get all the climbing done up front.

On top of the world

We had just finished the worst of the steep climb when we ran into friends Dan and Wendy. They were doing the loop clockwise for the first time and remarked that counterclockwise was the way to go. With their insight and the worst behind us, I was excited to get on the Tahoe Rim Trail just ahead.

View of Marlette and Tahoe from the Rim Trail

Not far into the Tahoe Rim Trail section, we came to the TRT Campground. It’s developed quite nice with a few sites, complete with some nice picnic tables, a bathroom, and even a well. If you’re running low on water, and don’t have a filter, this stop may be your best bet.

We have to go over this? Really?

From here, the Tahoe Rim Trail climbs up out of the trees, and gives the rider good views of the valleys to the east. One particular section is full of tall healthy Mules Ears, and the trail looks like it climbs up into the clouds. A group of mountain bikers apologized that they were blocking the trail for photos, but I told them not to worry. I was stopping too!

Hiking the snow bank

The remaining climb up Marlette Peak was very enjoyable with incredible vistas. A variety of wildflowers covered the ground, nearby mountain peaks towered around us, and the trail climbed and twisted its way to the top. As the trail crests the peak, you feel like you’re riding on top of the world. Once back on the west side of the mountain, you get treated to an almost sacred view of Marlette Lake and Lake Tahoe together. I always have to stop here and just stare. It’s a wonderful spot to have lunch and rehydrate.

Descending the switchbacks to Tunnel Creek Road

After reluctantly leaving the heavenly views of Marlette Peak, we continued north along the Tahoe Rim Trail. Riding on perfect trails with only a bit of mud here and there in the shadows almost made me forget the trail conditions mentioned on the Flume Trail website. We came around a corner to a massive white wall, and then I remembered the words, “A bit less than 5 minutes of hiking is all it takes to traverse this snow bank.” Wow. How could it be that the ground was completely dry where I was standing, but covered in 10 feet of snow just a few feet away? The trail disappeared underneath the glacier, and a dirty staircase stomped into the snow climbed up and over and out of sight. Kristy said, “Really?”

Twin Lakes

The soles of Kristy’s shoes are pretty worn, and she was having problems getting traction climbing the snow. It took some time to get up onto the bank, but once up top, we found firm snow for walking. The path came perilously close to some deep tree wells, so we took our time. Before long we could see the dirt again. Once we rejoined the trail, it was clear of snow for the rest of the ride.

View of Sand Harbor from the Flume Trail

After finishing up the last little climb, it was time to descend the switchbacks all the way down to Tunnel Creek Road. We had a blast zipping through the trees, rolling over boulders, and trying to find the best line through the obstacles. Kristy thanked me for not making her climb this section. At the bottom we passed Twin Lakes. This may have been the first time I’ve actually seen water in these two seasonal ponds. Usually it’s just a meadow by the time I get up there.

Keep Left

Once at Tunnel Creek road, it was just a short descent down to the Flume Trail. Climbing this steep road is always tough, so it was a real treat to just effortlessly coast down! We got onto the north end of the Flume Trail and began our easiest pedal of the day so far. The smooth, packed, heavily-used Flume Trail gave us a nice break from the technical Tahoe Rim Trail.

Water Crossing at Marlette Dam

When we got to the cliff section, we both remarked that it seemed scarier than normal. Maybe it was just a different feeling having the drop-off on the right hand side. Or maybe a cliff is just a cliff, and this trail gives you a thrill no matter how many times you’ve ridden it. I said I wasn’t going to stop for pictures that much, but the views are so beautiful through here, that it’s almost impossible not to reach for the camera. It was a bit later in the day by now, and we didn’t encounter too much oncoming traffic. We even saw some groups we passed in North Canyon earlier in the day.

Smooth forest road along Marlette Lake

We climbed up to Marlette Lake at the top of the Flume Trail, and rode past the dam. Later in the year it’s possible to ride this section and stay dry, but with the water so high right now, we were going to get wet. Normally I like to keep my drive train and other moving parts dry, but there wasn’t an easy way around the water this day. It was splash, splash, splash as the pedals smacked the water until we were back on the road around Marlette Lake.

Marlette Lake

It was nearing 5PM, and the forest road was peaceful and shady. It was nice and relaxing after the Flume Trail where you constantly have to pay attention. I even rode with no hands for a bit. Storm clouds were brewing to the south, and far away thunder rumbled. It still seemed far in the distance though, so we didn’t feel rushed, only enjoying the beauty of Marlette Lake in the subdued light.

Still some big puddles

The climb back from Marlette Lake to North Canyon is not long, but it always seems like a grinder at the end of a long day. We took our time getting to the saddle, looking forward to the long four mile descent back to the trailhead. The sky was getting darker, and a few raindrops fell here and there. There were still riders coming up the canyon, just starting their ride late in the day with the dark clouds chasing them.

Leaving Marlette Lake

We made it back to the trailhead and checked in with my son. He said he was worried about us, because of all the thunder and rain back home. Apparently most of the weather had missed us. We only had a few drops, and the weather was already starting to clear again. It’s strange to go to the mountains to get out of the weather. We were both exhausted, but had a great time. Plans for the next adventure are already underway!

The complete photo collection of this trip can be found on Flickr HERE.

Maps, trail conditions, and information about bike rentals can be found on The Flume Trail Website.

Carson City to the Flume Trail Loop

Posted on June 30, 2010 by Jeff Moser

Our extended winter left a lot of snow in the Sierras, and mountain bikers have been waiting week after week for the snow to melt enough to ride the trails in the high country. Although many sections of the Tahoe Rim Trail are still under some snow, the Flume Trail is finally open! On the morning of June 26th, the Northridge Riders assembled for an epic ride that took us from our driveways, all the way up to the Flume Trail 1,000 feet above Lake Tahoe, and then back home again.

Northridge Riders leaving the neighborhood

Due to high levels of excitement and anticipation, everyone was on time for the ride and ready to go. This included me too, which can be a rare occurrence. We huddled together briefly for a photo, and then got underway. You could sense the enthusiasm. I thought everyone was pedaling a bit too hard for the amount of miles ahead of us. Thankfully we only made it about a mile before we had to pull over and make minor adjustments to derailleurs and shoes. Once on the road again the pace was more relaxed, and we pedaled through the scenic west side of Carson City.

Leaving Carson City up Kings Canyon

The adventure seemed to begin when we reached the end of the pavement on Kings Canyon Road; the feeling of leaving the security and familiarity of town, and heading out into the unknown. We were glad to have gotten an 8:00 AM start, because the temperature was already starting to get warm. I took comfort in knowing we could refill our water once we got up to Spooner Summit.

Looking South towards Carson Valley and Jobs Peak

Kings Canyon steadily climbs out of Carson City, and you gain altitude fast. The gravely road switchbacks up the side of the canyon, and transitions from the desert feel of the valley below into the forest of the Sierras. Once you climb out of Kings Canyon, you have great views of the Carson Valley to the South. The road to Spooner from here is easier going as it parallels highway 50 below, but the roadbed is mostly loose decomposed granite. The sand can become deep at times, so you have to pick your way around the road to find the best traction. As you near Spooner Summit, there is a lot more shade, and several creeks cross the road. It was at this point that I started feeling that I was far away from home.

Stopping to smell the flowers on the climb to Spooner Summit

Kings Canyon to Spooner Summit was the longest leg of the journey. We had a slow and steady pace and our legs were fresh, but we started feeling the burn at the end of the 14 mile climb. We were really looking forward to the ice cream at the Flume Trail Bike Shop.

Flume Trail Bike Shop at Spooner Lake

We finally reached Spooner Summit, joined up with the Highway, and then bombed down to Spooner Lake State Park. We each paid our $2 entry fees, and rode over to the Flume Trail Bike Shop. The first order of business was to refill our water and get some ice cream! When I got over to the freezer though, it was nothing but a big white empty void. I suddenly understood how Christopher Columbus probably felt when he promised the crew that they would reach land by the next morning. Scott J glared at me with a look of betrayal. “You promised…”, his eyes said. The guy at the shop heard our discussion, and told us that the ice cream delivery hadn’t showed up for the week. It was late.

Glamor Shot – Scott R and Brent

I’m not certain if the guy at the shop sensed our sadness or was trying to avoid the bloodshed of a violent mutiny, but he said, “Hold on guys…” as he walked over to a freezer marked Employees Only. He pulled out last season’s freezer burned treats, and offered them to us for free! My frozen yogurt bar was encrusted in ice crystals, but tasted way better than it looked. We sat outside and enjoyed our frozen snacks. Two dollars to enter the park, and they give you free ice cream. You just won’t find cheaper entertainment anywhere. The steep climb ahead didn’t seem so bad now.

Jon smiling up North Canyon

Sometimes when I do a ride that I’ve done before, I like to try something different. Maybe I’ll change the route up a little bit, or try it on a different bike. I recently built up a new single speed, and I’ve had a hard time riding any other bike. It’s a lot of fun. For days leading up to this ride, I was trying to get the courage to try this route with one gear. Additionally, I really haven’t done any long rides this year, so I wasn’t sure if I could do it. I finally committed to riding the single speed the night before after I ran the idea by Scott R over a beer. He seemed surprised by the idea, but he didn’t talk me out of it. I figured I could walk if I needed to, and half of the ride would be downhill, right? I made it up Kings Canyon easier than I had expected, and only the grueling North Canyon was left.

Marlette Lake – Jon, Scott J, Jeff, Brent, Scott R, Sandie (photo by Jesse)

Overall, the climb up North Canyon went pretty well with one gear. I was riding up ahead with Scott R, and most of the steep parts were short. Until we got to the final climb, that is. The final climb is less than a mile, but it’s really a granny gear climb. The steepness spiked my heart rate quickly, so I looked around for things to take photos of in an effort to rest. One by one, the rest of the gang caught up with me and passed me, motoring up the climb in their tiny gears. Thankfully, the grade eased up at the end, I was able to ride up to the saddle. Most of the climbing of the day was done!

Beef Jerky? – Jesse and Scott R

We had a nice break at Marlette Lake, and everywhere around us was a beehive of activity. Hikers and cyclists were all around the lake enjoying the day. We even saw one small group using a rope swing to jump into the lake. Brrrr. No thank you!

Marlette Lake is used as a hatchery for Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout

The Nevada Division of Wildlife was busy at the south end of the lake at the Trout Spawning Station. Marlette Lake is used as a hatchery for Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout, and there were several fine specimens swimming in the inlet creek. Rather than have these brood stock fish at a hatchery, they are raised in the lake in a completely natural environment. Hundreds of thousands of eggs are produced by these fish each year for Nevada fisheries.

Scott J fording the submerged trail near Marlette Dam

As we pedaled along the west shore of Marlette Lake, we rode past the last patch of snow on the trail. It was nearly melted and was easy to go around. When we reached the dam, the high water had the trail submerged. A couple of us ported our bikes over the rocks, but those of us who didn’t mind squeaky chains and wet feet pedaled on through.

Flume Trail Vista

It was a busy day up on the Flume Trail, and we waited our turn for the traffic to clear. There’s a fun section that descends from the Marlette Dam, makes a sharp switchback over some granite boulders, and then finishes with a bridge crossing by a waterfall. It’s always fun to try to clear this section without putting a foot down, so we were patient as the riders ahead of us disappeared down the trail.

Single Speed Karate Monkey above Sand Harbor

Just across the bridge, the Flume Trail begins, and riders are offered stunning views of Lake Tahoe. I always enjoy taking someone new on this trail and watching their jaw drop as they come around the first corner to view the lake from 1,000 feet above it. You try to tell them how beautiful it is, but it can’t be fully imagined even by looking at a photo. It’s just something you need to see in person.

Jeff on the Flume Trail

While the Flume Trail is narrow and cut into the side of a steep mountain, it is smooth and well maintained. There is one hazardous rock slide area, but it is well marked. The biggest challenge of the Flume Trail is to keep riding and not stop constantly to take pictures or enjoy the scenery.

A treacherous spot on the Flume Trail

Caution, Landslide Area! – Sandie following instructions

When we arrived at Tunnel Creek, we began our final ascent of the day. The hill is only .6 miles, but it’s steep, and our legs were protesting any more climbing. We took a break at the saddle near the intersection of the Tahoe Rim Trail.

Scott J crossing the pass at Tunnel Creek

The trail drops down a steep sandy road after leaving the saddle at Tunnel Creek, but soon becomes one of my favorite sections of this route, the Red House Flume. While the Marlette Flume is up high and exposed, the Red House Flume is shady and enclosed in a more heavily wooded area. It’s a pleasant ride all the way to Franktown creek with many flowers and streams to enjoy along the way.

A big tree down on the Red House Flume

Blooming Mules Ear on the Red House Flume

At the end of the Red House Flume Trail is Franktown Creek and a skinny concrete dam. Riders must dismount here and carry their bikes across. It has been made more treacherous by a recently built structure on the upstream side enclosed in a chain link fence. It feels like you’re going to get tossed into the creek far down below. This is the only part of the ride that made me feel uneasy, and a different route to get to the Red House may be more desirable.

Crossing the Dam at Franktown Creek

Directly below the Red House Flume is the Red House itself. The Red House, as you might imagine, is painted red. But it is reportedly nicknamed for a caretaker named Harry “Red” McGovern, a past caretaker along Franktown Creek. The system of tunnels, dams, and flumes that brought water from the Sierras to Virginia City required constant monitoring and repair, so caretaker stations were built along the water route. Hobart Station, or “The Red House” was one of these stations. There is a shaded picnic table at Red House, the babbling Franktown Creek is nearby, and the remains of an old 1924 Dodge Roadster peacefully rest out in front of the house. It’s a perfect spot to take a break.

Red House

The inside of Red House could use a woman’s touch

After taking some photos at Red House, we began the next leg of the journey. After a short descent down Franktown Creek Road, the trail becomes Tanks Road, a long, mostly flat road that follows the contour all the way to the water tanks high above Lakeview. The trail here is easy going, and you have plenty of time to enjoy the views of Washoe Valley below and Slide Mountain to the North.

Snowball Contest

One particular photo stop was near a snow covered northern slope. Scott R suddenly got the urge to make some snowballs and commence target practice on an old dead tree that was several yards down the hill. He couldn’t seem to hit it, and before long the whole gang was over there making snowballs and trying to be the first one to hit the target. In the end Brent was the winner, and I believe Scott may owe him five bucks.

High above Washoe Lake

The final descent back to Carson City

Once you reach the water tanks, the pleasant road becomes really steep. It’s a fast descent all the way down to Lakeview from here as the road twists and turns down the mountain. We got our first glimpse of Carson City since Kings Canyon, and it was still way below us. Several minutes later we had reached the pavement of Lakeview, descended down Combs Canyon, and finally arrived back in the City.

Post Ride Celebration!

We finished our ride with a celebration, enjoying Brent’s famous margaritas, chips, and salsa. The riders that brought along their GPS units recorded 42.5 miles ridden, 7.5 hours out on the bike, and 4,491 feet of elevation climbed! There aren’t too many places where you can have this much fun all day and enjoy spectacular views, all for the low price of two dollars. Especially when you throw in the free ice cream!

42.5 miles, 7.5 hours, 4,491 feet of elevation gain!

More Resources:

For riders looking to trim off some miles or climbing, Spooner Lake is a great place to start. Flume Trail Bikes has a full service bicycle shop, bicycle rentals, shuttle service, and staff knowledgeable with the area. Their website has full details including a great trail map, and can be found at http://theflumetrail.com.

More photos of the ride can be found:
in the Bike Carson Flickr Set
Scott R’s Flickr Set
and Jesse’s Flickr Set.

Special thanks to the Northridge Riders for a great day and sharing some of their photos!

Tour of Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park

Posted on July 2, 2009 by Jeff Moser

On June 27th we got friends together from both near and far and toured Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. Lauren, Morgan, and a couple of their friends were up from the Bay Area, and Brian was visiting all the way from Michigan. Many of the Carson City gang was there to join in on the adventure too.

North Canyon Rest Stop

We left Spooner Lake in the early afternoon, and made our way up North Canyon. The temperature was warm, but not so hot that we were sweating buckets. Lots of butterflies were flying around the green meadows, and gave our minds something to concentrate on rather than the steep climb. It was a good time for conversation too, since we would be more spread out later in the ride.

Jesse on the Flume Trail

We didn’t stop at Marlette Lake, but rode along the shore on the way to the Flume Trail. Brian was talking about North Canyon still, and wondering where all the switchbacks were. He’d get them soon enough. The water was still high at the dam, and we had to ride through a little water to get over to the flume.

Sandie and Lauren on the Flume Trail

We rode out the flume, pausing often to look around the lake and take pictures. “Wow” was heard often along this stretch of trail. We even encountered the typical couple that was in way over there head. The lady was pushing her bike, and when we said hello to the guy, he got real nasty. It’s doubtful their relationship lasted after they turned in their rental bikes. Our group was in high spirits though, and pedaled on to Tunnel Creek.

Lauren and Brian on the Tahoe Rim Trail in search of oxygen

Before ascending the short, steep hill to the Tahoe Rim Trail, energy bars and gels were consumed. The road up Tunnel Creek is steep, but it subsides just when you think you’re about done. We caught our breath at the Tahoe Rim Trail intersection, and then pressed on to find the rest of the gang.

Brian summiting Marlette Peak

The Tahoe Rim Trail took us by “Twin Lakes”. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen water in these lakes except for snow. I bet they’re only lakes for a few weeks, if not only a few days. There are definitely signs of standing water, but it must drain really quickly.

Lauren and Morgan on the Tahoe Rim Trail

We continued climbing the many switchbacks on the Tahoe Rim Trail on our way to Marlette Peak. The high elevation was getting to some of our sea level friends, and I even heard someone utter the dreaded words, “death march”. Thankfully there were plenty of rest stops at the end of the switch backs, and we got spectacular views of Lake Tahoe and giant granite boulders.

Marlette Lake

When we got above tree line, the gang seemed to spring to life and charged up the final climb to Marlette Peak. Marlette Peak offers one of the best views of Lake Tahoe, with Marlette Lake visible in the foreground, and Lake Tahoe as the backdrop. You can even see the three peaks of Jobs, Jobs Sister, and Freel, towering above the Carson Valley to the South. I always wish I could spend the entire day at this spot, and just stare off into the distance, taking it all in. The burritos back at Brian’s condo weren’t going to eat themselves though, so we got on with the descent.

Group pose before the descent back to Spooner Lake

The Tahoe Rim Trail coming off Marlette Peak is a blast, and was the funnest descent of the day. There were some great photo opportunities when we rode through fields of mule’s ears, but there was no stopping at this point. We twisted and turned all the way down to the road, and then descended through a beautiful aspen grove along Marlette Lake. We finished off the last big climb out of Marlette, and then rode down 4 miles of double track to get back to Spooner. Some even commented that the downhill was too long! I think we were tired. A few of us headed back to Brian’s condo for New Belgium brews and Rene’s burritos. We ate and drank heartily, and great conversation was flowing. It turned out to be a great day for everyone to get to know each better, and we’re all looking forward to the next big ride.

Tahoe Rim Trail / Flume Trail Loop

Posted on August 25, 2008 by Jeff Moser

Last Friday, my friend Todd organized a ride on the Tahoe Rim Trail out of the Tahoe Meadows near Mount Rose. This is one of my favorite rides, so I jumped at the chance to go. The 30 mile loop we rode has fantastic views, fast smooth singletrack, and many challenges along the way to test your skills.

Tahoe Meadows Below Mount Rose

We met up at the Mount Rose Tahoe Rim Trail trailhead around 9:00 AM, and rode south towards Tunnel Creek. Scott J got to try out his new Stump Jumper’s suspension along the way. We all had fun climbing and jumping off the rocks.

Scott J on a Boulder Crossing

The first 9 miles to Tunnel Creek crosses back and forth along the ridge, giving you views of Washoe Valley on the East side, and Lake Tahoe on the West side.

Washoe Valley Overlook

Jon’s tube decided to die seconds after the picture below was taken. Pinch Flat! We swapped the tube rather quickly, but then I “thought” I saw something wrong with his brakes. I pulled one of the pads out, only to discover that there was nothing wrong, that they were just Avid Brakes…not the Hayes I’m used to looking at. We spent the next 20 minutes or so trying to reassemble Jon’s brakes, and got to meet many friendly people that passed us. At least we stopped near a pretty view! Jon forgot to bring his own tube, so Scott made an easy $40. It’s amazing what price you can command on such commodities when you’re in the middle of nowhere!

Above Crystal Bay

After reaching Tunnel Creek, we continued along the Tahoe Rim Trail. This section of the trail switchbacks up for a few miles to reach Marlette Peak. We ran into our friends Mike and Kathy along the climb, and chatted with them for a while. They were doing a loop in the opposite direction.

Riding Through Boulders

After a bit of a climb, we broke through the trees and made the final ascent to Marlette Peak. When I get my first glimpse of Marlette Lake and Lake Tahoe below, an overwhelming feeling comes over me. I’m not a religious person, but this place is about as spiritual as it gets for me. Marlette Peak is a wonderful place for lunch, so that’s just what we did. Ate and basked in the greatness.

Jon Riding up Marlette Peak

Scott J Above Marlette Lake

Marlette Peak

Lunch Break on Top of the World

In My Happy Place

After a nice break atop Marlette Peak, we began the fun descent down to Marlette Lake. The singletrack is fast, smooth, twisty, and goes in and out of the woods. Almost makes you want to pedal back up and do it again! We kept going though as there were many miles ahead of us. We got onto Marlette Lake Road, and made the final descent to the lake through the Aspens.

Marlette Lake

Leaving Marlette Lake

We pedaled around the south end of Marlette Lake, and then over to the dam where the Flume Trail starts. We met a couple at the dam, and the girl had lost a cleat bolt on her brand new shoes. Doh! Don’t forget the lock-tite folks! This may be a good item to keep in the tool bag come to think of it. It weighs next to nothing, and may save the day!

On The Flume Trail

There was a lot of traffic on the Flume Trail for a Friday! Can’t imagine what it must be like on the weekend. We took advantage of the frequent stops to snap some photos. The lake was glass smooth in some spots, and it looked like the boats were just floating in space!

Sand Harbor as seen from The Flume Trail

On The Flume Trail Looking South

We made it back to the Tunnel Creek crossroads, and took an extended break. We had a good chat with another group of riders that had done our loop the opposite direction. We both argued that our direction was much better. After refueling, we began our 9.5 mile trek back to Tahoe Meadows. Early into this final leg, we ran into Mike and Kathy again. They had a long ride ahead of them too.

Back on the Tahoe Rim Trail

Above Crystal Bay in the Afternoon Sun

It was now the afternoon, and going the opposite direction with different light made the trail all new. It is also deceiving how much elevation you lose on the way in. It feels like nothing but climbing on the way out! One by one we started to run out of water. A couple of the guys even uttered the dreaded “Death March” phrase.

Come on Guys! It’s Not a Death March!

Weary Adventurers

We finally made it back to Tahoe meadows around 5:00 PM, tired and thirsty. There was just one final ascent, and we decided to do it on the road to get it over quickly. The next drink of water was back in Reno, as there is no running water at the Tahoe Meadows trailhead. We all eyeballed a high school cross country team bus back at the top. Had there been an ice chest, we would have raided it. I think a small water filtration system might be good for these long summer rides. We were all loaded to capacity with water, but still ran out.

The Final Stretch

We were all pretty quiet on the drive home. I had to look in the back seat occasionally to see if Scott J was even still in the truck with us. The next 24 hours would be spent refueling and rehydrating. I slept good that night!

As always, more pictures of the ride can be found over on the Bike Carson Flickr page HERE.

Kings Canyon to Ash Canyon Loop

Posted on June 24, 2008 by Jeff Moser

On Saturday, I got to do something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time. A ride up into the Carson Range, starting from Carson City. I’ve done all the pieces of this trek, but never all together in one ride. I was tired of hearing about how great it is from friends, and decided to go see for myself.

Leaving Carson City on Kings Canyon Road

Scott R and I left Carson City from my front door at 8:45 AM. We met up with Lester on the west side, and then picked up Ryan and Christine at the Kings Canyon trailhead.

Looking Towards Carson Valley

I really haven’t done many longer rides this year, usually only riding for one to two hour durations. I was wondering how I’d do on the long ride. By spinning a low gear and taking our time, I found that the hills went by quite nicely. I would’ve been cooked early on at our usual pace.

Kings Canyon Road

Kings Canyon gains a lot of elevation up front, but then provides a pretty gentle ride for several miles after that. The views along the road are outstanding, and it is safe to stare off into the distance while riding. Well mostly…just about all of us washed out in the sand at one point or another while gawking at the scenery.

Break Time at Flume Trail Bikes

Getting to the top of Kings Canyon was a mental milestone for me. Once at the top of Spooner Summit, I felt good and knew I could do the rest of the climb. This was probably the scariest part of the ride, as we had to ride along the shoulder of HWY 50 for about a mile. The roadside construction cones pushed us a little too close to traffic. I can’t imagine doing an around the Lake tour. It was a relief to get off the road and enter Spooner Lake State Park.

We stopped off at Flume Trail Bikes at Spooner Lake State Park for some cold beverages, and topped off all the Camelbaks and water bottles before leaving for North Canyon.

Indian Paintbrush in North Canyon

The higher we climbed, the more lush the vegetation got. North Canyon was a stark contrast to the lower elevations we had climbed from. Down below, the greenery is starting to fade, but things up here seemed to be just getting started. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature were sublime.

Final Grind up North Canyon

When we regrouped at the top of North Canyon, we talked about the route that we’d finish the ride on. As we did this, it started to rain a little bit. The Flume Trail seemed like a bad idea, none of us wanting to be stuck on a cliff wall during thunder and lightening! We chose to head towards Hobart via Sunflower Hill.

Marlette Lake

The road along Marlette Lake took us through an Aspen Grove. This was one of the most peaceful sections of trail. A couple riders commented that it felt like they were back East.

Crossroads at Marlette Lake

The peacefulness ended, and it was time to climb again! And quite steeply. Everyone was back down to the granny gear for the climb up to the saddle beneath Marlette Peak.

Another Grinder up Marlette Lake Road

We finally reached the highest point of our ride for the day, somewhere around 8,500 feet above sea level. We took a break on the granite boulders, and enjoyed the view of Marlette Lake and Lake Tahoe below.

Marlette and Tahoe

We ran into construction as we neared Sunflower Hill. There was a big sign on the side of the road that read, “NO SMOKING”. It seemed wildly out of place for where we were at. Big trucks have been using the road, so it was freshly graded, and pretty silty. Not the best for riding.

Photographers on Sunflower Hill

After descending through a dark and dusty section of the woods, we came out upon the area known as Sunflower Hill. The “sunflowers” are actually Mule’s Ear, and grow all over the eastern Sierra; however, this hillside has a high concentration of them. The scene stopped us dead in our tracks, and we all had to get the cameras out.

Sunflower Hill

After descending a few switchbacks through the Mule’s Ear, we came to an intersection that gave us the choice of a downhill to Lakeview or more climbing to Hobart and Ash Canyon. We chose more climbing!

Hmmm…Which way today?

There were lots of large trucks and other heavy equipment parked around the area. A big sign advertised the “Marlette Gas Project”. There were more “NO SMOKING” signs here too. Ahh…explosive vapors. The signs made more sense, although none of us were sure why there was a gas line being put in.

Discussing the Marlette Lake Gas Project

We stopped for an extended break at Hobart Reservoir near a nice little campground and restroom. Since you can drive up Ash Canyon to within a relatively easy walking distance to the reservoir, there were quite a few fisherman and other visitors here. It was strangely noisy. Not what you would expect from such a secluded spot.

Hobart Reservoir

After a nice break, we continued to climb to get to Ash Canyon. We were all getting pretty tired at this point, and were all looking forward to some downhill. Just when we thought it was time to descend, another little hill would be presented to us.

Do We Really get to go Down Now?

Normally I would go down Lakeview, but I haven’t seen the top of Ash Canyon for over a decade. I remember it being terribly steep, and even remember crashing on it. Still, I wanted to get an updated visual of the area, since we ride the lower areas of Ash Canyon daily.

Carson City

We had another jaw dropping moment when we came out of the woods and saw Carson City below. Wow! We had done a lot of climbing!

Dropping into Ash Canyon

Once we were done soaking in the view, we began the final descent down Ash Canyon. This road is probably one of the steepest roads I’ve ever been down. Even with disk brakes, my arms required rest breaks at a few points during the descent. Lester and I both experienced rear brake fade. The lever was spongy, and you could pull it all the way back to the bars! Boiled brake fluid? Not sure…

It was almost a bummer to drop elevation so quickly. After so much climbing, a more relaxing descent would have been nice. Next time we will take the Lakeview route for sure!

Almost Home

We finished off the ride with a trip down the Creek Trail. We were all pretty fatigued, and took it much slower than normal. I felt like a pinball.

After saying farewell to the other riders, Scott R and I made it back to my house around 4:15. What a day we had had, and what a great feeling to have done such a great ride without the use of a car for a shuttle. I can’t wait to do it again!

More pictures of this ride can be viewed on our Flickr site by clicking HERE.

Bike Carson

Bicycle News, Culture, and Lifestyle in Carson City, Nevada

Tag Archives: marlette lake

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