There isn’t a trail anywhere in the world tougher on your Jeep than the Rubicon. Located in the High Sierras near Tahoe Lake, the relentless journey is a non-stop adventure over huge boulders, granite slabs, dangerous ledges, and deep water crossings. The rewards are clean fresh air, amazing views and the satisfaction of conquering one of the most intense trails in North America.
The Rubicon Trail is a 22-mile-long route, part road and part 4×4 trail, located in the Sierra Nevada of the western United States, due west of Lake Tahoe and about 80 miles (130 km) east of Sacramento.
You can start your exploration of the Rubicon Trail from several locations. Be sure you have packed what you need to make the trip fun and successful.
Georgetown Trailhead
The original starting point. This route is now paved all the way to Loon Lake. From there you can continue to take the original route through Wentworth Springs or take the Ellis Creek Trail from Loon Lake to the Rubicon Trail.
From Highway 50, turn North on Highway 49 towards Auburn. It’s not too far down the road. Turn right on Highway 193 to Georgetown. Turn right on to Wentworth Springs Road and in to downtown Georgetown.
From Highway 80, turn South on Highway 49 towards Placerville. When you get to the town of Cool, turn left on to Highway 193. Turn left in to Georgetown.
Out of Georgetown, follow Wentworth Springs Road until it tees with Ice House Road. Turn left and follow Ice House Road to Loon Lake or Wentworth Springs.
Wentworth Springs Trailhead
This is again part of the original route. Coming from Georgetown or Highway 50, don’t turn towards Loon Lake, keep straight. There are two old routes from here. Just before the bridge before Airport Flat Campground turn right and follow the old original dirt route over Geerle Creek to Wentworth Springs. This area is frequented by quads and motorcycles.
Continuing on straight past Airport Flat Campground is the paved route to Wentworth Springs. This has become the accepted original route of the Rubicon Trail. Follow the signs to the Wentworth Springs Campground and the Rubicon Trail.
Tahoe Staging Area and Trailhead
This is the traditional end of the trail for most people but for those of us living on this end, it’s the beginning.
From Highway 50, turn north on Highway 89 towards Tahoe City. After about 16 miles from the famous “Y” at South Lake Tahoe look for the McKinney Rubicon Road and turn left in to the residential sub-division.
Follow the signs to the Rubicon OHV Trail. It’s a left, then a right, then it curves left and right, then another hard left, then straight on to the paved section of the trail.
Loon Lake Trailhead
From Highway 50, turn left on to Ice House Road.
It’s a long winding road with a good climb to it.
Don’t be in a hurry.
