Page Contributor(s): John Summerson, The Ultimate Guide to Climbing (by Bike) 2nd Ed.
Page Contributor(s): John Summerson, The Ultimate Guide to Climbing (by Bike) 2nd Ed.
Cycling Mt. Rose from Incline Village (west; Lake Tahoe)
Ride 8.1 miles gaining 2,476’ at 5.8% average grade.
The summit is the highest pass open year round in California and is on busy State Highway 431 which connects Reno and Lake Tahoe (Incline Village).
Climbing Mt. Rose from Incline Village is not quite as harrowing as from the east, but it is a close second. This is a busy roadway and traffic whizzes by at 60+ mph. We suggest you do this climb on an early weekend morning.
Start the climb at the Roundabout at Highway 431 near Incline Village.
“The west side of Mount Rose is a smooth ascent over a solid grade up from scenic Lake Tahoe in western Nevada. There are excellent views of the lake in a few places on the way up. The road also carries a bit of traffic most days heading back and forth to reno so stay alert as you ascend. There can be a bit of congestion on its lower slopes along with the majority of its traffic. Soon the houses and most signs of civilization recede and you are riding through pine forest. The grade is solid and steady throughout several sweeping turns. Near the top there is a short descent but climbing soon resumes over solid grade. The hill soon ends at signed Rose Summit in a scenic setting with views down into the valley in spots. The summit also includes a rest area and hiking possibilities on top. It is a very fast and sweeping descent as well; just be alert down low for turning traffic.” (This quote is provided with the approval of John Summerson from his book, The Complete Guide to Climbing (by Bike), 2nd Edition, pg. 192.)
Top Photo: Mt.Rose Summit and Highway 431 from the west (left) and east (right).
Bottom Photo: Top of Mt. Rose Ski Resort.
Ride east on Highway 431 from Incline Village to Mt. Rose Summit.
Lake Tahoe Scenic Overlook is at mile 3.5.
Runaway Truck Ramp: a good sign of a steep road.
900’ to go . . .
Climb summit.