Diamond Peak Trail: The Downhill Marvel of Incline Village, Nevada

Essential Trail Details

• Distance: 8 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Loop
• City: Incline Village
• State: Nevada

Introduction

The Diamond Peak Trail, also known by locals as "Tyrolean," is the hidden gem of Incline Village in Nevada. Offering a roller coaster ride of rock ledges, sweeping turns, and log crossings, this loop trail is an adrenaline junkie's paradise.

Route Description and Highlights

The trail begins at the Diamond Peak ski area parking lot and follows a well-defined loop that climaxes in a mind-blowing downhill section. While the initial climbs are on paved roads, they serve as a mere appetizer for the main course: a non-stop, 4-mile downhill filled with challenges.

Key Segments for an Epic Ride

• Start at the Diamond Peak ski area parking lot
• Head downhill and make a right onto Fairview
• Cross Highway 431 twice, staying on dirt roads
• At about 3/4 mile, veer right and look for bike tracks between Forest Service brown markers
• Engage in a relentless downhill, exiting on Tirol Blvd
• Turn left to return to the ski area and your vehicle

Getting There

From Highway 28 in Incline Village, turn east onto Country Club and then right onto Diamond Peak. Follow the signs to the ski area, where ample parking is available.

Trail Conditions and Features

While the trail tends to get dusty and chattery, especially later in the season, its imperfections add to its raw, downhill flavor. Don't expect a flow trail; Diamond Peak is rugged, with great rock gardens and roots. With awesome banked turns, sporadic jumps, rock banks, and drops, it's important to exercise caution. Protective gear, including knee and elbow guards as well as a helmet, is strongly recommended.

Additional Tips and Caveats

• If the dirt road isn't immediately visible across Highway 431, ride up the hill about three blocks.
• Brown Forest Service trail markers may not be evident. Take the third offshoot to the right and cross a fire road to find the trail.
• Climbs are on pavement, which might not be everyone's cup of tea.

Expert Verdict

Those in search of pure downhill bliss should put the Diamond Peak Trail at the top of their list. Despite the dust and occasional chatter, the trail's features and conditions make for an exhilarating experience that trumps other local trails like The Zipper and even gives Mr. Toad's a run for its money.Diamond Peak Trail is a call to all adrenaline seekers, offering a technically challenging yet intensely rewarding ride, complete with stunning views of Lake Tahoe.