Northstar-at-Tahoe Ski Resort Photo Gallery

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The two best ranger districts for mountain biking are Downieville and Truckee. Biking in Downieville is so splendid that it was singled out in GORP's Meccas Beyond Moab. If you don't get to any other, take a spin down Butcher Ranch Trail. You'll be treating yourself to stunning views and access to a clear mountain creek. Other recommended trails include Upper Salmon Lake Trail - Sierra Buttes Area, Pauley Creek Trail, Chimney Rock Trail, and Bullards Bar Trail.

The higher elevation Truckee District has some celebrated trails of its own. Martis Peak Lookout is a four-mile chug up an old dirt road to a 360-degree panorama of glorious mountain forest. If you're into making a day of it, take a look at Coldstream Canyon Trail, a 20-mile excursion into varied terrain with great views. More trails to single out include Verdi Peak from Boca Rest Campground, Ellis Peak and Ellis Lake - bike version, Lower Lola Montez Trail, and the Pole Creek Area.