About Pines to Mines
Partnering together, Truckee Trails Foundation, United States Forest Service, Nevada County, Bear Yuba Land Trust, and Bicyclists of Nevada County, have been working to realize the dream of a long-distance trail connecting both ends of Nevada County with stunning, adventuresome singletrack.
For years the team worked on securing a workable alignment. In 2021, the Truckee Trails Foundation secured $100,000 in funding from Nevada County in order to conduct the necessary resource studies under the National Environmental Policy Act. With an alignment now in place and resource studies complete, the team is gearing up to break ground on this epic trail in 2024.
When completed, the trail will cover over 72 miles, utilizing the highly popular Trout Creek Canyon, Donner Lake
Rim, Hole in the Ground, Spaulding Lake, and Pioneer Trails, among others. Approximately 22 miles of new construction will be required to link these trails into one cohesive whole encompassing the best the county has to offer in the way of sweeping valley vistas and the Sierra Crest, mature mixed conifer forest, historic towns and high quality recreation. The opportunity to add such a grand attraction of stout challenges and jaw-dropping views to Nevada County’s inventory of attractions is overpowering. The extended trail length and significant elevation changes means that trail users will experience distinctly different terrain as part of the overall trail experience.
The Pines to Mines Trail will offer prime recreation opportunities, accommodating a wide range of user abilities for those seeking a rugged backcountry experience hiking, running, mountain biking, and horse-back riding. From easy day hikes to multiple day backpacking or bike-packing trips, there will be something for everyone, and everyone will experience tantalizing terrain, stunning vistas, and variable local vegetation and wildlife. With local restaurant and brewery options at either end of the trail, users will have an enjoyable (sometimes challenging) backcountry experience with all the right rewards. The trail will notably contribute to more active lifestyles among locals, and serve as a major draw to visitors as well.