Tuesday, 27 October 2026, 7:55
Bike Tahoe has officially announced the winners of its inaugural Best of Bike 2026 campaign, a region-wide public survey designed to honor the businesses, trails, and destinations that define the cycling experience around Lake Tahoe.
The campaign invited residents and visitors to vote for their favorites across 19 categories representing every facet of bicycling in the area. From mountain biking routes and recreational paths to local bike shops and family-owned eateries, the initiative highlights how cycling connects recreation with tourism, healthy lifestyles, and the natural environment.
Nearly 500 votes were cast during the campaign period, providing a comprehensive snapshot of what cyclists value most when exploring the region. Organizers aimed to encourage greater awareness of the organizations and small businesses that sustain Lake Tahoe’s vibrant bike culture and local economy.
Voters split their selections between North Lake Tahoe and South Lake Tahoe, recognizing standout locations in each area. Key winners in North Lake Tahoe included the Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association for advocacy, Sand Harbor State Park for best beach, Flume Trail Bikes for rentals and shuttle services, and Whitecaps Pizza for bakery and pizza.
In South Lake Tahoe, the Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association again took the advocacy title, while Kiva was named the top beach destination. The America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride won for bike events, and Camp Richardson Forest Trail was recognized for bike path rides. Local favorites also included T’s Mesquite Rotisserie for taqueria and Burger Me for burgers.
Bicycling plays a crucial role in Lake Tahoe’s seasonal tourism and year-round transportation network. By highlighting bike-friendly businesses and trail systems, the awards underscore the financial benefits that cycling enthusiasts bring to local hotels, restaurants, and rental shops throughout Placer and El Dorado counties.
Initiated by Ty Polastri and the Bike Tahoe organization, the project began as a pilot effort to give riders a direct voice in recognizing the places that make the area exceptional. With backing from major sponsors like Lake Tahoe Travel, Visit Lake Tahoe, and the City of South Lake Tahoe, the campaign successfully bridged grassroots advocacy with broader regional tourism goals.
“This first Best of Bike campaign was really about celebrating the entire Tahoe bicycling community,” said Polastri. “The people who ride here know what makes Tahoe special.”
As cycling continues to gain popularity as a sustainable travel option in Northern California, initiatives like Best of Bike will likely expand to include more categories and participants. Residents and visitors are encouraged to follow Bike Tahoe for updates on future campaigns and upcoming bike-friendly festivals and events.
