Flume Trail
Flume Trail
August 20, 2006
Second day riding at Tahoe. This time, we opted for the Flume Trail, which is one of the prettiest (and most popular rides) in the Lake Tahoe area. Even the beginning climb was hard (just because of the altitude for me), it was through a pretty forested area.
Reaching the top took a lot of out everyone. There were quite a few folks hiking. As usual, I'm the last one up. We took a group picture at the top (I have no idea why Daryl isn't smiling), and all continued down. Once we made it past this point, we were off to Marlette Lake.
Marlette Lake was the prettiest part of this ride. It was rolling open fireroads, and even some rocks to roll over on occasion. Bill had fun with my camera, and I was even in a few shots on such a beautiful day. This was the prettiest part of the ride.
Next, I heard on the radio "Take a left, then go THROUGH the water.." You have to go through the lake. I've done creek crossings before, but this was a looong way across. The water was clear, and the views were spectacular.
After Marlett Lake, it was mostly a hike-a-bike through a creek-ish area that starts the actual Flume Trail. This trail is very gradual, but your views of Lake Tahoe can't be beat.
While on the Flume Trail itself, it was quite beautiful, and pretty narrow. It was as ledgy as everyone made it out to be, especially since nothing was particularly technical. The worst parts were the outcroppings to get around, and I was feeling pretty slow from the altitude. The good news is that gives you time to take pictures, even of your friend's going the wrong way. :-)
Unfortunately, that was my most common view of Daryl. I didn't see him much, partially because all the crazy people passing me where making me very nervous. However, there were some breathtaking views, and even most of the most popular places to be photographed on a mountain bike.
Despite the exhaustion, it was hard not to enjoy the view. Man, it was beautiful. The worst part was crossing the slide area. That you had to do by walking over. Ugh.
After crossing the slide area, it was a really quick ride until we reached the intersection with the fireroad. At the fireroad, the ride because very sandy and unstable until we reached the end where the shuttle picks up. It's worth riding, but make sure you don't do it on a crowded day.
Route taken: Spooner Lake to Marlette Lake, Flume Trail to shuttle pickup.
