For fun, flowing, and novice-friendly singletrack mountain biking in Tahoe, point your fat tires toward Commemorative Emigrant Trail. A few miles north of Truckee, this answer to Marin’s China Camp rolls like a ribbon for miles through pristine high country flanked by granite-capped mountains and golden alpine meadows; there's also a water destination reward—if you go the full distance. The 8.5-mile trail (one-way) has some short climbs and descents, and the terrain is rocky—literally—in parts; but for most of the ride you’ll be coasting at a level 6,000 feet, rolling through sagebrush and Jeffrey Pine forests and catching your breath on sections of dips and downhill. Turn back at any time or ride the entire 8.5 miles to Stampede Reservoir, a tranquil, aquamarine oasis that mirrors the surrounding forest. It’s a fine backdrop for a snack break, which you’ll want to take before heading back the way you came. Rock and roll!

BONUS: Back in Truckee, fuel your appetite at Burger Me! (10418 Donner Pass Rd. #A.) Choose from a variety of specialty burgers—the Truckee Trainwreck combines Meyer beef, cheddar cheese, onion rings, turkey chili, and a fried egg. All aboard!

You can pick up a map of the area at Cycle Paths bike shop in Truckee (10200 Donner Pass Rd.). The Commemorative Emigrant Trail’s trailhead, as well as parking for the trail, is on Hwy 89—4 miles north of 1-80 in Truckee. Look for the “Hobart Mills” sign just after crossing Prosser Creek Bridge; a dirt parking lot is located right at the sign. Dog-friendly!