The Donner Summit area is a premiere location for mountain biking at any proficiency level. The abundance of great trails, spectacular views and varied terrain make the area a mountain bikers dream.
The best known ride in the area is the Hole in Ground loop in the Castle Peak area. The route is challenging as it climbs to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) at 8000+ ft. There are also less challenging rides like the loop around Van Norden Meadow that are great for the entire family. One of the best riding areas with a variety of terrain is the area west of Serene Lakes and out along Kidd Lake Rd. A combination of old logging roads and ski trails criss crosses this area of high Alpine forest and offers great single track mountain biking opportunities. The 6 mile loop ride out to Mariah Pt is the best ride in the area.
The area is remote, high and dry and it is highly recommended that the riders bring plenty of water, a tool & flat repair kit, a small first aid kit and a cell phone (even though reception is spotty in many areas). It’s probably a good idea to take it easy if you are coming up from lower altitudes and are not used to the thinner air. With a few sensible precautions you can experience some of the best mountain biking in California.
Rides