Donner Lake – West End Beach, Donner Lake loop from Bermgarten Parking
Donner Lake – West End Beach, Donner Lake loop from Bermgarten Parking
2.8
(26)
29
riders
Donner Lake – West End Beach, Donner Lake loop from Bermgarten Parking
01:36
32.0km
340m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 27.1 km for 163 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
8.60 km
Donner Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
9.92 km
West End Beach, Donner Lake
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
11.7 km
Lake View Canyon Road
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
13.7 km
China Cove on Donner Lake
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
22.2 km
Donner Lake Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
27.2 km
Truckee Downtown
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
32.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
23.1 km
5.29 km
3.30 km
231 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
26.1 km
5.28 km
258 m
201 m
152 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 24 June
25°C
7°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging ride that combines elements of road cycling with the terrain typically found on mountain bike trails, the Donner Lake – West End Beach, Donner Lake loop from Bermgarten Parking offers a unique experience. This route, despite its name suggesting a simple road cycling loop, is a moderate 19.9-mile (32.0 km) journey with a significant 1099 feet (335 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 35 minutes. It's best suited for cyclists comfortable with varied terrain and ready for more than just a paved lake circuit.
What to expect on Donner Lake – West End Beach, Donner Lake loop from Bermgarten Parking
This route starts from Bermgarten Parking, which is primarily a trailhead for the Donner Lake Rim Trail. While the Komoot data labels it for racebike, be prepared for sections that might feel more like mountain biking or a hybrid experience, given the starting point and the substantial elevation gain. You'll encounter steady climbs and potentially technical sections, offering panoramic views of Donner Summit, the Sierra Crest, and Donner Lake from higher elevations. The route likely incorporates parts of the scenic Donner Pass Road and South Shore Drive, but the Bermgarten start suggests a more rugged adventure than the typical easy lake loop. This trail is for cyclists who enjoy a workout and diverse landscapes.
Planning your visit
Bermgarten Parking serves as a key access point for trails in the area, so it can fill up, especially during peak seasons. While the traditional Donner Lake road cycling loop is generally accessible, starting from Bermgarten implies you're venturing onto trails that might have different conditions. Always check local conditions before you go, especially for seasonal changes that could affect trail surfaces or access. Carry plenty of water, as the elevation gain and varied terrain will make for a demanding ride.
- Distance: 19.9 miles (32.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 1099 feet (335 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 35 minutes
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