Summary 
| Difficulty | 1 Beginner |
| Length | 2.0 miles round trip to bridge |
| Starting Elevation |
6250 feet |
| Cumulative Elevation Change |
Nil |
| Navigation | Adjacent to plowed road and map |
| Time | Few hours |
| Season | January through March |
| Snowmobiles Use | Low |
| USGS Topo | 7.5' series, Tahoe City |
| Start | From the bridge across the Truckee River in Tahoe City, drive south (west side of Lake Tahoe) on Highway 89 for 0.3 mile, turn west (right) onto a lesser road, and drive 0.2 mile to a parking area. |
Description
The Truckee River provides a corridor along Highway 89 for cross-country skiers. When deep snow makes skiing difficult elsewhere or when you have only an hour or two to ski, this tour provides a pleasant opportunity to stretch your legs.
The background noise from the nearby highway is an obvious drawback to this tour. Although the season for this tour is January through March, because the route crosses back and forth across the Truckee River it can only be done when snow and temperatures permit the crossings. It goes without saying, be very cautious when crossing the river! Also, your exact route will depend on the condition of the river.
Mileage Log
Numbers in parentheses
correspond to mileage points on map
Waypoint 1 to 2
Miles: 0.0 - 0.3
Elevation change: Nil
From the trailhead (1) ski west for 0.3 mile until you reach a drainage (2) that heads south; power lines cross the river at this point. It may be necessary to take off your skis to cross a plowed road in this section.
Waypoint 2 to 3
Miles: 0.3 - 0.5
Elevation change: Nil
Ski west along the south side of the river, staying in the trees, for approximately 0.2 mile, and then descend to the river (3). Descend to the river at a location where you can ski along it. In a heavy winter it may be possible to avoid this section in the trees.
Waypoint 3 to 4
Miles: 0.5 - 1.0
Elevation change: Nil
Ski west along the river, crossing it where necessary, for 0.5 mile until you reach a bridge (4). If you can and desire to, continue to ski west along the river until the conditions do not permit you to continue.
Return to trailhead
Miles: 1.0 - 2.0
Elevation change: Nil
Retrace the route for 1.0 miles back to the trailhead (1).
