Start with the place
Sawyer Trail sits in the Sawtooth area of Truckee, reached from the trail network near Thelin Drive and the 06 Fire Road. This zone is one of Truckee's practical trail areas: close to town, easy to lap, and connected to several named routes.
The location gives you forest, flow, and wider views toward Martis Valley and the Carson Range. It is easy to treat it like a quick ride, but the trail links still reward reading the route before you start.
Before you roll
- Area: Truckee / Sawtooth Trailhead.
- Level: Easy.
- Distance: 4.9 mi loop.
Average time: 45 mins-1 hr.
- Gain: 440 ft.
- Views: Foliage, Martis Valley, and the Carson Range.
- Pets: Allowed, with control.
How the ride feels
Sawyer has an easy Truckee rhythm. You climb enough to feel warmed up, get a view, and then enjoy the smoother parts on the way back.
The route links several trail names, so read the turns before you start and keep the group together at junctions.
Finding your way
Start on Timber Cruise from the Sawtooth area. Use Sawtooth Spur Road, drop into Sawyer, and stay right onto Westside.
Climb Back-Cut, then return to Sawyer for the downhill. You can finish by reversing the start or using Happy Face if that fits your route.
Keep the flow friendly and watch for hikers, dogs, and other bikes.
Who this ride is for
This ride is good for newer riders who are ready for a bit of route finding.
It is also a calm spin for stronger riders who want a short ride with Martis Valley and Carson Range views.
Keep it local
Use the California 89 Bike Card before you roll so the trail names make sense once you are moving.
California 89 has the everyday pieces that fit Sawtooth laps, coffee stops, and the rest of a Truckee day.