The Local Lens – Exploring Tahoe’s East Shore, With Tahoe Multisport

Guest Author: JP Donovan, owner of Tahoe Multisport, in Incline Village

The Local Lens highlights the people and businesses that help make Incline Village and Crystal Bay unique. This issue, JP Donovan, owner of Tahoe Multisport, shares why the East Shore Trail has become one of Lake Tahoe’s greatest outdoor experiences—and how everyone can help keep it safe and enjoyable.

When I first heard an old Sand Harbor Story Years ago, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. A coworker told me his father used to visit Sand Harbor decades ago and ride his motorcycle right down to the beach. He’d park nearby, spend the day swimming in Lake Tahoe, and ride home when he was ready. At the time, it sounded like the perfect Tahoe experience.

Things have changed.

Today, Highway 28’s east shore is one of the most visited recreation areas in the Sierra. The informal roadside parking that once existed has disappeared in favor of designated parking areas, improved safety, and better protection of the lake and surrounding environment. While you can no longer pull up to the water in a vehicle, something even better has emerged.

The East Shore Trail.

The trail has opened this incredible shoreline to far more people than ever before. Families with young children, grandparents, visitors who aren’t comfortable hiking rugged terrain, and people of varying fitness levels can all experience the beauty of Tahoe’s east shore without battling highway traffic or difficult dirt trails.

I remember riding sections of the old dirt paths between the highway and the lake years ago. They were beautiful—but they were also rough. I had a couple of crashes that I was fortunate to walk away from. Today’s paved trail has made this coastline dramatically more accessible and enjoyable.

Electric bicycles have taken that accessibility even further.

The climbs that once discouraged many riders are now manageable for almost everyone. One of our favorite recent projects was building an electric tricycle for a 92-year-old rider who wanted to continue enjoying Tahoe by bike. Seeing someone continue exploring the outdoors at that age is exactly why this trail is so special.

With more people using the trail than ever before, courtesy and safety have become everyone’s responsibility.

Here are the reminders we share with every rider before they leave our shop:

Ride at a safe speed for conditions and the people around you.

When passing or encountering other cyclists or pedestrians, alert them of presence with the bell or by greeting them, avoid saying on your right or left as they may misinterpret.

If riding on the shoulder of the road, follow road rules and signal, stopping at stop signs.

Watch for children, pedestrians, runners, leashed dogs and slower riders who may move unpredictably.

Assume another trail user will be around every blind corner.

Look carefully before crossing driveways.

Choose a helmet with proper size and aspect ratio.

If crossing sand/gravel/ice/pine needles, brake/turn before/after.

Never assume motorists are stopping to allow you to cross.

When parking your bike, choose a location that does not impede others.

Just as important as riding safely is respecting everyone else who uses the trail. A smile, a wave, slowing down for others, and showing patience go a long way toward making the trail enjoyable for everyone.

At Tahoe Multisport, we’ve helped thousands of visitors experience the East Shore Trail over the years. Every rental includes a helmet, route recommendations, and a safety orientation because we believe a great ride starts before the wheels begin turning.

Today’s bicycles also allow more people than ever to find the right ride for their adventure. Some riders enjoy a traditional cruiser for the challenge and exercise. Others appreciate the comfort of an electric bike for exploring longer distances. Families can bring children along on cargo bikes, while riders seeking additional stability often find electric tricycles to be an excellent option. Mountain bikes make it easy to continue beyond the pavement and explore Tahoe’s extensive trail network.

No matter what you ride, the destination remains the same.

There’s still something magical about reaching one of Tahoe’s beautiful beaches under your own power, locking up your bike, diving into the clear water, and spending the afternoon by the lake. We may not be parking motorcycles on the sand anymore, but in many ways, today’s East Shore Trail offers an even better way to experience this remarkable place.

Ride safely, be courteous, and enjoy one of the most beautiful bike rides anywhere.

JP with Tahoe Multisport