5 Awesome Mountain Bike Trails Near Placerville
Avid mountain bikers know the area near Placerville in El Dorado County is a great place to be for fun trails and fantastic views. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced biker there’s a trail to suit your skill level.Put on your helmet and hop on that bike, we’re going on a ride to check out five awesome mountain bike trails near Placerville.
Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
Image: mtbproject.com/Roc Paradise
If you’re in the mood for adventure and have some experience mountain biking, then put Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride on your list. The name doesn’t lie, with 2 to 3 foot high drops, you can expect one intense ride. It’s one of the most well-known advanced rides around Lake Tahoe. The single-track trail descends for about five miles on rocky terrain. If that wasn’t extreme enough, there is also a section of stairs that is meant only for the most advanced biker. Although the trail is near Lake Tahoe, don’t expect to see great views of it from here. But, you will see picturesque rock drops as well as some conifer trees.
Power Line Trail
Image: mtbproject.com/Jerome Joanino
The Power Line Trail located near the southern portion of Lake Tahoe is ideal for intermediate riders as well as beginners who aren’t afraid of the occasional short climbs. The smooth rolling single track runs through the El Dorado National Forest, so expect to see some great nature scenes here. Fir and pine trees provide shade if you need to take a break. Beware of a few creek crossings that could tie you up if you’re not paying close attention. Choose to ride back and forth or take advantage of loops available into Cold Creek Trail or the Corral Trail.
Armstrong to Strawberry Trail
Courtesy: mtbproject.com/Empty Beer
The Armstrong to Strawberry Trail has it all. From fast and flowing to more challenging and rocky, there’s something for both intermediate and advanced riders here. The trail can be found in the Southern Lake Tahoe area off Highway 50. While there are some loops that may leave you breathless, there are also fantastic views of Lake Tahoe that will make the trek all worth it. Don’t forget the babbling brooks you’ll see along the way, as well as a plethora of wildflowers. You can also ride through a waterfall when the season is right!
Fleming Meadow Loop
Courtesy: mtbproject.com/Shayne Holderby
Recommended for intermediate to advanced riders, Fleming Meadow Loop consists of a 6.5 mile loop trail of mainly single tracks. There are still plenty of turns as well as an uphill climb of some 450 feet. Although you’ll be pedaling steadily, the view as you ride is breathtaking. The summit is a great choice if you want to rest among the tall pine trees. The trail is located across from Jenkinson Lake. Keep in mind that this is a multi-use trail, so there will be hikers as well as bikers nearby.
Magnolia to Cronan West Ridge
Courtesy: mtbproject.com/Malcolm Chance
Don’t let the beginning of this ride fool you. The first three miles or so of the Magnolia to Cronan West Ridge trail near Auburn Lake Trails is an easy to follow loop trail. From there it gets tricky because there is a long climb and descent. When you pick up the West Ridge Trail, expect to see great views of the valley and the American River.
The West Ridge also provides four solid single track descents within a 14 mile ride. Bikers enjoy it because of the spacing between climbs and descents. There’s always enough time to recover before the next climb. This trail is best suited for intermediate riders.
Now it’s time to match up your skill level to one of these trails and get ready for an awesome ride!
