3-Day Truckee Mountain Biking Itinerary

🗓️ Day 1: Northstar Bike Park & Donner Lake Cool Down

Morning: Breakfast at Coffeebar Truckee
Start your adventure with a strong espresso and breakfast burrito at Coffeebar, a favorite pre-ride fuel stop for locals and visitors alike.

Late Morning to Afternoon: Ride Northstar Bike Park
Head to Northstar California Resort for a full day of lift-served mountain biking.

Trails like Livewire, Gypsy, and Sticks & Stones offer everything from flowy berms to rocky tech.
Rentals and safety gear are available onsite if needed.

Lunch: Rubicon Pizza (Northstar Village)
Break mid-day at Rubicon Pizza.

Order the BBQ Chicken Pizza—it’s a staff favorite for a reason.

Afternoon: Swim at Donner Lake
After the lifts shut down, head to West End Beach at Donner Lake. Cool off with a swim or just soak in the alpine views with your feet in the water.

Evening: Dinner at Truckee Brewing Company
Wrap up your first day at Truckee Brewing Co., where great beers meet casual eats like tacos, pretzels, and pizza. Their laid-back vibe and friendly staff make this a must-try in Truckee.

🗓️ Day 2: Happy Face Loop & Legacy Trail Recovery

Morning: Breakfast at Wild Cherries Coffee House
Grab a quick, hearty breakfast and coffee at Wild Cherries—a classic Truckee stop with easy in-and-out access for riders.

Mid-Morning: Ride Happy Face Loop
Start your ride from Forest Service Road 06, just across from the Sawtooth Trailhead host station (off Thelin Drive in Truckee). Look for signs marked “Happy Face Trail to Bald Mountain.” After about a half-mile, watch for a spur trail on the left—this is your key turnoff. From there, follow the Happy Face Loop signs and ride in a counterclockwise direction for the best flow and scenic views.

This scenic singletrack winds through open forest with mild climbs and fast, flowy descents.
Great for intermediate riders and those looking to cover distance with a good rhythm.

Lunch: Full Belly Deli
Post-ride, head to Full Belly Deli for some of the biggest, most creative sandwiches in town—perfect after a calorie-burning morning.

Afternoon: Recovery Ride on the Truckee River Legacy Trail
Hop on the Truckee River Legacy Trail, a paved riverside path ideal for a chill afternoon cruise.

Multiple spots along the river offer cool-down dips and shaded rest stops.
Great for stretching your legs without pushing the pace.

Evening: Dinner at Truckee Tavern & Grill
Enjoy a relaxed yet elevated meal at Truckee Tavern, featuring seasonal dishes, wood-fired meats, and local ingredients in a cozy, downtown setting.

🗓️ Day 3: Flying Squirrel + Dancing Bear & Taproom Tour

Morning: Breakfast at Squeeze In
Go big with breakfast at Squeeze In, known for its massive omelets, funky decor, and friendly vibes—fuel for your final ride.

Mid-Morning Ride: Flying Squirrel + Mustang Sally (Tahoe Donner Trail System)
Begin your ride from the Alder Creek Adventure Center and hit two of the best trails in the area:

Flying Squirrel – Smooth, flowy singletrack through pine forest, great for warming up with fun rollers and gentle corners.
Mustang Sally – A local favorite featuring moderate climbs, swooping descents, and classic Tahoe forest scenery. It pairs perfectly with Flying Squirrel for a satisfying loop without excessive elevation.

Lunch: Red Truck Café (Truckee Airport)
Refuel at Red Truck Café, a local gem serving globally inspired wraps, rice bowls, and fresh salads in a casual airport-side setting.

Be sure to check the daily specials—they’re always rotating and always amazing.

Afternoon: Paddle or Chill at Donner Lake
If you’ve got time before departure, head back to Donner Lake to paddleboard, kayak, or simply relax on the beach.

Evening: Taproom Tour – Truckee’s Best Craft Beers
Celebrate your trip with a relaxed local taproom tour:

FiftyFifty Brewing Co. – Home to the award-winning Eclipse stout and a solid variety of hoppy favorites.
Alibi Ale Works – Truckee Public House – Creative small-batch beers, a lively atmosphere, and great live music.
*check their website for live music schedule
Craft & Logic – A curated tap house pouring standout beers from across the West in a laid-back, community-forward space.

🏡 Recommended Vacation Rentals for Mountain Bikers

Truckee Escape – Ride out to nearby trails right from your door.
Tahoe Stoneridge – Walk to downtown restaurants and taprooms.
Cottonwood + Maple – Pet-friendly and close to Donner Lake.
Pinnacle Classic – Private hot tub and access to Tahoe Donner trails (with HOA fee).