February 22, 2009
Review: If you want this to be an epic ride, park at Donner Lake Interchange (just behind the gas stations next to the hotel) and ride the singletrack along the south side of Donner Lake Park. When the trail hits pavement continue along South Shore drive towards the West End of Donner Lake, about half way there is a forest service rd. that goes up Lakeview Canyon and to the historic townsite of Eder. At the top of this climb (short but steep) you will hit the old SP tracks which you can then ride the old rail bed and tunnels to the summit. Once there take the Lake Mary/Sugar Bowl singletrack/dirt road to Emigrant pass between Mt. Judah and Donner Peak. At this point there is the Coldstream Single track that will take you back down into Donner Lake Interchange. There are many hidden singletrack options off of this with historic value. Apolies for not being more specific, but mountain biking is about discovery-at least it used to be. Go to Paco's in Truckee and they can give you all you need to go on this ride (25 mile loop/intermediate thru advanced).
Similar Trail: Donner Rim Trail, Pole Creek.