In The News – Tahoe from two wheels: A bike path guide to experiencing Lake Tahoe’s hidden gems
September 7, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 9/7/2026, Written by Katelyn Welsh
Sunscreen—check. Hiking boots—check. Swimsuit and towel—check. It’s the final checklist review before embarking on the Lake Tahoe vacation of your dreams, but did you remember to bring your bike (and helmet)?
With Tahoe’s expansive multi-use path system, there’s a scenic bike ride just around the corner, no matter where you stay—offering a unique way to explore Lake Tahoe and discover its hidden gems.
The smell of pine trees, the wind nuzzling your hair, and the crunch of pine cones are just a few examples of how these paths pave the way to a more palpable Tahoe experience.
North Tahoe
North Tahoe is known for its smaller, charming towns, laid-back vibes, rich history, and abundant recreational opportunities with both Lake Tahoe and the Truckee River to explore. A vast network of paths offers access to nooks on the east, west, and north sides of the lake, as well as along the scenic Truckee River corridor to Olympic Village.
East Shore Trail
The crown jewel of multi-use paths in Lake Tahoe, this new trail teleports users to one turquoise cove after another and ends at Lake Tahoe’s most well-known beach, Sand Harbor. Biking to Sand Harbor allows you to skip the reservation system and the entrance fee is 80% off ($2) if you arrive by bike. For no fee, Hidden Beach and many other coves are scattered along the path. You can add the ride along the Lakeshore Blvd path adjacent to lakeside mansions and head up Village Blvd for food and drinks in Incline Village. Note, the beaches along Lakeshore Blvd are private.
Originally published by TRPA ENews – September 2026
When U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg gave the keynote address at the Tahoe Summit in 2024, he told the crowd of 1,200 people how he would explain his visit to his 3-year-old daughter.
“I went to a place full of people who are working to make their roads safer, to make their air cleaner, and to keep their lake safe,” said Secretary Buttigieg.
His words capture the interconnectedness of transportation and environmental protection in Tahoe. How people move through the basin affects the air we breathe, the water we protect, and the communities we call home.
Tahoe’s seasonal influx of visitors puts significant pressure on the region’s environment, roads, recreation sites, and communities. Through the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program(EIP), TRPA and Team Tahoe partners are working together to create safer, more connected, and more sustainable ways to get around the basin.
Whether it’s building bike trails and shuttle systems that reduce vehicle use or upgrading trailheads to improve parking and signage, Team Tahoe transportation partners are helping people enjoy Tahoe without losing what makes it special.
One of the most transformative examples is taking shape along Tahoe’s iconic East Shore. Photos by: TRPA and Brandi Caskey / Indigo Photography
A Safer, More Connected East Shore
The 28-mile Nevada State Route 28 (SR 28) corridor serves more than 1 million recreation visitors and 4 million vehicles each year. It’s a National Scenic Byway and an iconic stretch of Tahoe shoreline, connecting visitors to some of the region’s most popular recreation destinations. But accommodating that demand while protecting this extraordinary landscape is a complex transportation challenge. Limited parking and pedestrian facilities have created significant safety, congestion, and environmental challenges.
In 2013, 13 partner agencies came together to develop a shared vision for the corridor: safer travel, better recreation access, less impact on Lake Tahoe, and more transportation choices. That collaborative vision continues today through a suite of projects being advanced by partners throughout the corridor.
The Tahoe East Shore Trail was the first major milestone, opening its first 3 miles between Incline Village and Sand Harbor State Park in 2019. The trail, combined with managed parking areas at the north end and active parking enforcement outside of the park, effectively eliminated unsafe roadside parking along a key section of SR 28 and helped manage capacity at Sand Harbor State Park.
The trail is now being extended with funding from a federal grant and significant philanthropic support through the Tahoe Fund, creating more opportunities to walk and bike along the shoreline. Work is underway to expand the East Shore Trail from Sand Harbor to Thunderbird Lodge and eventually all the way south to Spooner Summit, where the Nevada Department of Transportation is constructing the Spooner Mobility Hub. This managed parking area will also house a permanent aquatic invasive species watercraft inspection station.
Other pieces of the vision are coming together, too. The U.S. Forest Service and partners recently completed improvements to the Chimney Beach trailhead parking area, providing safer off-highway access to popular recreation areas.
The East Shore Express, operated by the Tahoe Transportation District, offers another way to access the corridor and leave personal vehicles behind. The Express is planned to extend beyond its current route between Tunnel Creek and Sand Harbor State Park, connecting more recreation sites to new and planned parking areas along the corridor.
Together, these projects are transforming SR 28 from a challenging two-lane highway into a safer, more connected, and sustainable gateway to Tahoe’s abundant public lands.
Graphic by: Tahoe Transportation District
The improved Chimney Beach parking (left) and the in-progress Spooner Mobility Hub and Aquatic Invasive Species Inspection Station project (right) showcase how EIP investments can improve safety and recreation access while protecting Lake Tahoe’s water quality and supporting more sustainable transportation. Photos by: TRPA
New lots, new fines, new laws — Tahoe agencies are racing to get cars off the highway shoulder and into managed parking
Originally published in Moonshine Ink, 8/13/2026, written by Alex Hoeft
Every summer, Lake Tahoe’s transportation challenges become impossible to ignore. Gridlocked roads, full parking lots, and unsafe parking along busy highways are the visible signs of a problem that dozens of agencies have spent decades trying to solve.
Gavin Feiger, policy director for Keep Tahoe Blue, put it like this:
“Transportation in Tahoe has been one of the largest contributors to clarity decline. It has one of the biggest impacts on the environment and on our day-to-day lives. It’s a huge issue that we haven’t been able to crack as a region yet. We’re tackling aquatic invasive species. We’re doing restoration projects. Development is getting more sustainable, and it’s limited. Growth is capped. We’ve done all these things, but we just haven’t worked out transportation yet.”
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.
Originally published in the TRPA Newsletter, 7/27/2026
Over the July 4 holiday, Tahoe residents, visitors, and partners came together to protect the region through cleanup efforts, responsible recreation, and stewardship actions. Photo by: TRPA
Early summer data show continued progress from Tahoe partners working to manage peak-season visitation, protect natural resources, and improve transportation options across the basin. Some highlights:
The Emerald Bay Shuttle served 956 riders in its first 10 days, providing an alternative transportation option to one of Tahoe’s most visited destinations.
The East Shore Express continues to see strong ridership, averaging 310–370 riders per day. In 2025, 22,374 total riders left their personal vehicles behind to experience Tahoe’s East Shore via the East Shore Express.
The 13th Annual Keep Tahoe Red, White & Blue cleanup on July 5 brought together 446 volunteers who removed 1,330 pounds of litter from beaches and surrounding parking lots, trails, and streets across six sites—less litter than the event’s historical average and a positive indicator of ongoing stewardship efforts.
Boaters, watercraft inspection teams, and Tahoe Keepers continue to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by practicing Clean, Drain, and Dry protocols. Marina partners also helped stop six illegal boat launches. With golden mussels proliferating in nearby California waterways, vigilance at every entry point remains critical to protecting Lake Tahoe Basin waterbodies from this significant threat.
Partners across the basin are implementing Destination Stewardship efforts to promote responsible recreation and protect Tahoe during the busy summer season. Increased law enforcement presence and stewardship signage at Tahoe Blue Beaches are helping create a safer, more welcoming experience for visitors.
As summer continues, residents and visitors are encouraged to help protect Tahoe by recreating responsibly, following stewardship practices, and staying engaged in the future of the Tahoe Basin.
In The News – Spooner Transportation Hub makes noticeable progress
July 10, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 7/10/2026, Written by Katelyn Welsh
The Spooner Transportation Hub appears to be making very rapid progress, with the removal of trees drawing attention along State Route 28.
The project, which began in May, will supply an additional 250 parking spots, a watercraft inspection station and an access point for Tahoe Transportation District transit services, along with restrooms and EV charging spaces.
The project site is located near the Spooner Lake State Park entrance and is a part of regional partners’ larger initiative to reduce unsafe roadside parking along State Route 28.
In The News – New Destination Stewardship efforts aim to enhance the Tahoe experience for everyone
June 16, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 6/16/2026, Staff Report
From convenient public transportation services to new efforts designed to encourage everyone to learn how to help take care of Tahoe, regional managers share what to ‘Know Before You Go’
With so much to do, see, and experience in Tahoe, it’s no surprise that every year, over two million unique visitors spend an average of 15 million days in the region. This summer, Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Council partners are sharing what to “Know Before You Go” to have a high-quality experience in Tahoe, and a reminder that taking care of Tahoe is everyone’s responsibility.
“We’ve learned a lot over the past several years about how to better manage visitation to popular sites in our region,” said Nettie Pardue, Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Council managing director. “To that end, we’re continuing to add and expand services like the new Emerald Bay Shuttle that we invite everyone to use in an effort to recreate responsibly and continue to enhance the Tahoe experience for all.”
In The News – Work on U.S. 50 Tahoe Stateline to Spooner Summit repaving project to continue after holidays
June 15, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 6/15/2026, Staff Report
Work on the U.S. 50 Tahoe Stateline to Spooner Summit repaving project will continue through the summer. The work will impact drivers. Here’s what you need to know:
WORKING HOURS: 24-hour work zones with single-lane closures begin Sundays at 8 p.m. and conclude at noon on Fridays.
HOLIDAY HOURS: Crews will conclude working on Thursday, June 18 at 5 p.m. with no work on Friday, June 19 and resume on Sunday, June 21 at 8 p.m.Crews will conclude working on Thursday, July 2 at 6 a.m. and resume Sunday, July 12 at 8 p.m. following the Fourth of July holiday weekend and American Century Championship Celebrity Golf tournament.
REMINDERS: Drivers can anticipate moderate travel delays through the work zone.Work zones are there to improve the roads, and are not a place for impatient or aggressive driving. Please Take it Slow Tahoe: speed is reduced to 35 mph through all zones. Double penalty in work zones: the Nevada Revised Statute 484.3667 doubles the penalty for speeding, up to $1,000, in any marked road construction or maintenance work zone when workers are present. More info: https://www.dot.nv.gov/safety/work-zone-driving-safety
In The News – ‘No parking’ signs along east Tahoe corridor spark access questions
June 8, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 06/05/2026, Written by Katelyn Welsh
As Tahoe’s peak season approaches, parking signs stand along Tahoe’s east shore corridor in an attempt to curb dangerous off-shoulder parking along the winding and narrow highway.
The new “No Parking” signs and “20-minute Parking” signs were installed on State Route 28 from south of Sand Harbor to the Carson City line last fall.
Since their placement, parking citations have almost quadrupled compared to a year prior, according to data from the Nevada Highway Patrol. Traffic citations have increased by close to 30%, and crashes have decreased by 24%. The full impact of these changes will become clear as peak season comes into full swing.
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 6/4/2026, Written by Kayla Anderson Tahoe Magazine
One of the great things about Lake Tahoe is its biking culture. With more than 50 miles of paved bike paths around the basin (not counting the 100-plus miles of dirt singletrack mountain bike paths up in the mountains), there are quite a few campgrounds nestled between Tahoe’s safely paved paths meandering through the trees and Big Blue that you can get to without having to deal with traffic. Here are a few of Tahoe’s most accessible bike spots to pitch a tent and stay for the night:
