Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, California - California Mountain Biking

Located in South Lake Tahoe, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride is one of the best known rides in the Western US. While this reputation is largely based on a section of fast singletrack with a series of banked turns, don't be fooled into thinking that you'll be coasting through this one.

In fact, the 3,200 foot climb is probably one of the easiest parts of this ride, as much of it is done on paved and dirt roads. Only the last three to four miles are climbed on trail, which for the most part, is in good condition.

After you reach the top, you'll be treated to a steep and increasingly technical decent. After surviving the technical section, you'll be faced with a series of up's and down's. The local map*, which generally is very useful, fails to mention this, so make sure that you have saved enough energy for this section.

The final three miles are probably how most people describe this ride. Fast singletrack with banked turns provide a final thill on this 20 mile loop.

To get here from South Lake Tahoe, drive south on Highway 50 until you reach Pioneer Trail Road. Turn left and go 7 1/4 miles where you reach Oneidas Street. Turn left and continue until it ends at an OHV trail sign. Park here.

For more information on Mr. Toads Wild Ride, make sure to check out MBR's Roadtip '96 visit to South Lake Tahoe.