Big Chief Full Loop

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Allowed

Features Flow · Views

This ride is renowned for its length and ease of access from the town of Truckee. A 10-mile fire road climb is rewarded with a 14-mile flowy descent down the primary mountain ridge separating Truckee from Tahoe City. Several small technical sections are interspersed along the way to keep things interesting.

This ride is nicely straight forward, taking a mellow grade fire road uphill for 10 miles from the parking lot. It's well shaded under pine trees with the occasional view out toward the mountains. Once at the summit meadow, where wildflowers and a small lake offer respite, a turn down the well-signed singletrack descent begins the 14 mile cruise back down. Expect swoopy turns, rolling sections, views, secluded forest, and large boulder fields (with optional rolls and technical features).

The parking lot for this ride is close to Truckee, making it possible to ride into town or drive in for food, coffee, or a dip in the river afterwards.