Mount Watson Peak Road: A California 89 Bike Guide

Start with the place

Mount Watson Peak Road starts from Brockway Summit on Highway 267, the pass between Northstar, Truckee, and Kings Beach. From this North Lake side, the road climbs through forest and opens toward Lake Tahoe views as you gain ground.

Because the route follows a road, it can draw more than mountain bikes. Expect hikers, horses, dogs, bikes, and off-road users depending on the day, and ride it like a shared North Lake access route.

Before you roll

• Area: North Lake / Brockway Summit.
• Level: Easy.
• Distance: 3.3 mi out and back.

Average time: 1 hr 30 mins.

• Gain: 600 ft.

View: Lake Tahoe.

• Start: Brockway Summit snowmobile lot.
• Pets: Allowed, with control.

How the ride feels

Mount Watson Peak Road is straightforward in the best way. You climb the dirt road, work into the view, turn around, and come back with a little dust on everything.

This is a shared-use route, so expect hikers, horses, bikes, and off-road users. Ride with space, call out early, and give horses extra room.

Finding your way

Take Highway 267 to Brockway Summit and turn into the lot marked with a snowmobile sign.

Follow Mount Watson Road toward the lake-facing route. Late season can bring deep dust, so brake early, slow down before passing, and keep control on the way back.

Who this ride is for

This is a good pick for newer riders who are ready for a dirt road climb.

It also makes sense for visitors who want a short North Lake ride with a view and a clear route back to the car.

Keep it local

Use the California 89 Bike Card to keep the plan simple, then leave time for whatever the rest of the North Lake day becomes.

Stop by California 89 for hats, layers, and casual pieces that make sense from Brockway Summit to Kings Beach or Tahoe City.