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    Mt Rose Summit

    4.9 (22 reviews)

    Mt Rose Summit Photos

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    Muoi H.

    A must hike in the Tahoe Region ! It's gorgeous and worth burning those extra calories You get to see both Tahoe and Reno on top of the summit!

    Robbie R.

    We didn't hike to the real mountain summit, that's for the Sierra Clubbers. We got to the summit of the Mt Rose Highway. There's a nice parking area here and trail starting spots for hiking. We had our pick up truck on the super hot day down in the valleys. Here at over 8900 feet, the temps were much cooler and pleasant. This makes for a great place for a picnic in the back of the truck on lounge chairs. Bust out the ice chest and the bucket of fried chicken and we're set! If you're not used to high altitude, it might be a little hard to breath. Living down in the Sac Valley in Red Bluff, I don't get much high altitude breathing practice. If you're driving over the pass here, stop and check out this stopping spot.

    Tara T.

    Decided to "trail run" up to Mt. Rose Summit on Labor Day weekend with a friend. We walked a couple miles of it a few nights before and thought we could handle it as the first 1.5 miles are a nice dirt path with minimal incline. We accidentally veered off trail around 2.5 miles in so we turned around to continue on the Mt. Rose path. Slowly hiking/jogging/trotting we made it to the top in well under 2 hours. We quickly enjoyed our view before dusk and jogged down. What an adventure and great view!

    Danny H.

    Not for the faint-hearted, and definitely not a trip you should consider lightly if you're going in mid-February. Mountain was still entirely covered in snow and it was actually mildly dangerous considering how easy it was to lose the trail. Would recommend coming here closer to March or when you're sure the snow has melted. Otherwise, if you're sure you want to get in that quad burn, make sure you have proper snow boots with ski shoes. We rented them at a local store and that place was packed with people! We must have waited about a good 45 minutes or so until we were all serviced (with a semi-large group of 6 of us). Make sure you have the essentials for preparing for the unexpected- apart from snow shoes and sturdy ski poles, you'll want the basics (water, snacks, snacks, did I say other snacks or sources of energy, some form of actual food (can't go wrong with peanut butter & banana sandwiches), unless your water bottle opens in your pack and gets all your sandwiches soggy). Consider having a battery pack if you're going to rely on your phone- and even then make sure you have a compass and at least a map. There was surprisingly good reception for most of the mountain but always be prepared is the only motto there is for hiking out this remotely. Huge safety public service announcement here that I can't seem to emphasize enough! Another rule is to ALWAYS have a buddy. We actually ran into a lone hiker who was having some combination of mild high altitude sickness or a type 1 diabetes hypoglycemic episode who we had to help call search & rescue for so make sure you know what you're doing but always with a buddy!

    Perfect day for a hike
    Mark M.

    I'd you're looking for an awesome day outside, this is your spot. Starting from the Mt. Rose parking lot puts you a good 2.5 hours from the summit without snow. If you've got to contend with snow, make sure to get an early start. This hike has tons of views so don't forget a camera. But also don't forget sunscreen if you get tired of the weekend crowds on the main trail don't be afraid to check the less traveled side trails around the summit area. Dog friendly

    Grace L.

    We came here in December, before all the snow started. Driving here is not too far from El Dorado hotel, where we stayed. I really enjoyed the view from up above and the little snow that kept us busy sledding. The view is phenomenal. We can't wait to come back for the ski season.

    Bathrooms. Closed for now.
    Michelle M.

    OVERALL: Five stars! This is a great stop by the freeway that has a parking lot you can park your car. About a 40 min drive from Reno. Came on a Sunday before noon. More people started coming after 1pm. SNOW ACTIVITIES: Easily walk onto a vast flat area with semi soft snow perfect for gathering together for snow balls or making snowmen. We grabbed chunks of snow and played with our dog. A family made a snowman and took photos. Saw two other dogs a group brought who were off leash, but we kept our dog leashed the whole time especially with kids around I know some people get nervous about dogs near kids. If it's hills you seek, there are hills with nice clearings without trees and not too steep for sledding. I mention the trees because the last thing you want is to sled head first into a tree. There were a few families with children sledding down on sleds or circular discs. They were all laughing having fun and taking photos. Plus with the flat land at the bottom you have plenty of space to slow down and land in soft snow. Some freeway stops with snow are super icy and hurt when you fall because it's so hard, but this place has perfect snow! Not too soft where you sink down to your knees and not hard. Ski or snowboard? The group who brought the dogs had skiis and walked somewhere higher up the hills past the trees so I assume they went up to the top to then ski down, but I never saw them come back down by the time we left. BATHROOMS: had a sign that said they're closed. Trash can by the bathroom building.

    Wilderness sign
    Julie P.

    Today was my second time summiting mt rose after at least 5 years and I'm asking myself why it took me so long to revisit this beautiful hike. The trail itself it mostly sand or a mix between gravel and some areas with larger pieces of broken up granite but nothing too gnarly. The first 2.5 miles to the waterfall is mostly flat. The real incline doesn't happen till after the waterfall and it's really not that bad either. I think from there's it's approximately another 2.5+ or so miles to the top. There's still some wet areas on the trail because of the late snow melt but that's ok because the abundance of wildflowers is real right now!! I must have went super late in the year last time because I don't remember this. Anyways .. after the water fall the accent starts but it's not that bad. It is steep but it's do able and shouldn't scare anyone away. I would rate this trail as moderate-maybe hard for some. Take your time and rest on the way up if you have to! It's worth it - The last mile gets a bit steeper and close to the summit its rockier. If you weren't breathing heavy before, you will be now. Once your at the top you are rewarded with a beautiful view , 360° - so make sure you look all around you. And this hike is dog friendly :)

    Looking eat toward Reno
    Dennis L.

    Amazing hike, and well worth the effort. I think you could actually break this hike in parts. The first to the waterfall and then if course to the summit. The first part is fairly easy hike. The views are nothing less than spectacular. Hiking past Tamarack Lake with it's clear mountain blue tint, amazing. There is plenty of shade along the first half as well. Obviously available of water is awful handy, as halfway on the hike are the waterfall. The second half of the hike is a lot more challenging, but so worth the effort. It's s extremely well maintained trail. The views are the continued to get my epic as I made my way all the way to the summit. Just a overall knock your socks off kinda day. Go for it, you won't regret it.

    Lake Tahoe
    Sina R.

    Great hiking spot. We did 2.6 miles total before 8am and it was nice and quiet. Got more busy when we left around 9ish so go early to beat the crowds. Beautiful trees and lots of little chipmunks

    Katy E.

    We had such a fun time at the summit and meadows. The best part is that we could have our dog sliding with us.

    On top of the summit.

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    Ask the Community - Mt Rose Summit

    Review Highlights - Mt Rose Summit

    If you happen to visit the trail head in mid-August, you will see the largest migration of monarch butterflies you have ever seen in your entire life.

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    Upper Thomas Creek - Whites Creek - Dry Pond Trail

    Upper Thomas Creek - Whites Creek - Dry Pond Trail

    4.9(7 reviews)
    2.5 mi

    Ski season is over for me, cycling season is starting, and maybe hiking, but only in shaded areas…read more Quality/Quantity - So I am looking for more and more new bike paths. We just cycled The Tahoe East Shore Trail (6 miles round trip) and I am ready for something new and different. My wife is NOT a big dirt road rider, but she wanted to come here, so we will see. I think she would enjoy this more for just hiking...? We will see. Not much shade and/or amenities. Come prepared. Cut and pasted from the internet: "These trails are open to dogs, bicycles, and horses. Everyone can have a good experience by exercising common courtesy and adhering to some accepted rules of the trail... When hikers meet, those going uphill have the right-of-way unless they stop to let downhillers pass. When approaching other hikers from behind, give a friendly greeting so those in front aren't startled. Horses have the right-of-way over both hikers and bikers. Stand aside quietly while they pass. Hikers have the right-of-way over mountain bikes, but it is usually easier for everyone if hikers let the bikes pass since they are usually moving faster. Mountain bikers should announce their presence in places with limited visibility, like blind turns. When passing, let hikers know if more riders are following." Atmosphere - Depending on where you park, I suggest that you only come here with 4 wheel drive vehicle. Not an issue with us as we have a truck. The internet said that there were many shaded areas...? Maybe we did not go far enough? It just means we will be back. Thomas Creek Trail - 4.4 miles, 1272 elevation, 2.5 hours. Lower White Creeks Tail - 6.9 miles, 931 elevation, 3 hours. Dry Pond Loop - 6.2 miles, 1072 elevation, 3 hours. Service - Self service. Price - Free, thank you. Owner Comment - Thank you to Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Washoe County Regional Parks, and Open Space Teams for maintaining this area.

    I went on the Thomas Creek Trail for a short hike/exercise yesterday. I went out for a mile before…read morereturning back. According to my Fitbit watch, I walked 2.2. miles. This is a beautiful, easy trail right along the Thomas Creek in the Galena area south of the city of Reno, NV. There was a lot of water flowing down the creek with a little snow and ice in some areas.. The weather was perfect (cloudy and not cold or hot). According to the U.S. Forest Service, this trail is 7.8 miles long however (like in my case) I just wanted to walk a couple of miles for my daily exercise routine. I highly recommend it.

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    Upper Thomas Creek - Whites Creek - Dry Pond Trail - 6/4/25 FYI. Time for my cycling season.

    6/4/25 FYI. Time for my cycling season.

    Upper Thomas Creek - Whites Creek - Dry Pond Trail
    Upper Thomas Creek - Whites Creek - Dry Pond Trail - Shaded trails

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    Shaded trails

    Oxbow Nature Study Area - Education center...not open when we've been there.

    Oxbow Nature Study Area

    4.1(28 reviews)
    11.0 mi

    Great easy trail for those of us who enjoy a nature walk but nothing too hard! Lots of nice benches…read moretucked here and there for a quiet break...unless of course a train goes by...but I always enjoy that. On the northern most path, once the shrubs and trees leaf out, you walk thru a green tunnel. I used to bring my mom here when she used a wheelchair for mobility...paths are pretty level and hard packed, and there are a couple of observation points paved with that plastic decking...they are holding up very well! There is a mystery here tho...closing hour is listed as 4:00pm, with notices the gate will be locked and your car stuck...but we've been there later in the afternoon and the gate was open and the parking lot full... We had our dog with us, on her leash, only to see a sign as we left, that dogs are not allowed...sorry.

    Convenient parking in a small lot. Restrooms in the beautiful, round park building. Decks allow…read moreaccess out over the water's edge for comfortable (and dry) viewing of the Truckee River flowing by. Trail wends through the mature trees, leading to other areas with benches and picnic tables. The soothing sound of the river can be heard from most of the trail, and you'll also hear several species of birds. Informational plaques are located throughout the park, describing various aspects of the land, flora, and fauna. Overall, a peaceful park that will get you away from the hustle and bustle.

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    Oxbow Nature Study Area - Look out closed (1/2026)

    Look out closed (1/2026)

    Oxbow Nature Study Area
    Oxbow Nature Study Area

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    Hidden Valley Regional Park - Trail

    Hidden Valley Regional Park

    4.4(32 reviews)
    11.9 mi

    I've been exploring this park lately and I can't say enough about how much I like it. It's a great…read moreopen space to come explore, walk the dogs and do various types of recreation. You'll be happy to know there is also a bathroom on site. There are various hiking trails you can explore, but most of it is not shaded. The Perimeter Loop Trail was fun with scenic views of downtown and the currently snow-capped mountain range to the West. I also did the Hidden Valley Backcountry Loop. It has a 1,033 Elevation gain and approximately 3.7 miles to complete the loop. It's a bit slippery going up, but I took my time and had no issues. As you can imagine, the views and the landscape only got more beautiful.

    Wear your hiking shoes, dress appropriately and bring water!…read more This was a hard graded trail and yes it was. It got really step the higher we hiked up. It was also very windy in December. So happy we didn't get any rain and was able to go for a hike! We hiked for a good hour. Loved the nature and view of the city from the top. There was a lot of gravel towards the top and a few of us did slip going down hill, even with hiking shoes. Even a trail runner said he fell and slipped a few times. There's a few trails so do some research to see which trail meets your needs. Lots of parking and the bathroom is next to the tennis and pickle ball courts. Lucky I had my pickle ball set in the trunk and even got in a few games. Location was only about 15 minutes from downtown Reno, very close! I'd come back next time to hike another trail!

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    Hidden Valley Regional Park
    Hidden Valley Regional Park
    Hidden Valley Regional Park

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    Rancho San Rafael Regional Park - Hot air balloon races

    Rancho San Rafael Regional Park

    4.5(147 reviews)
    12.9 mi

    Beautiful Sunday morning to walk around the park and arboretum. Our annual Dragon Lights Festival…read moreis here and we got to see the decorations unlit, but Beautiful. Peaceful with less crowds. Beautiful naturescapes.

    I love Rancho San Rafael! It's home to a lot of events hosted in Reno that are dear to my family. I…read morehave several fond memories over the years of family photos, baby showers, birthdays and graduation parties here. Inquire within Reno city office to rent parts of the park for your events. I frequently brought my oldest to this park and the Wilbur D May museum over the years for certain exhibitions. It was convenient since we were in NW Reno area. Tea parties and picnics by the playground and hikes up to the "N" during warmer spring and summer months. The playground is currently under construction and might be our favorite. I look forward to bringing my little when it's reopened. This past weekend my kids and I attended the great Reno balloon races and this event never disappoints. It's an annual tradition that I'm glad my oldest still partakes in for now. This was the largest turnout I've seen in all my years of attendance and living in Reno. The staff that organized/worked this event were well prepared and it was organized; thank you for your hard work and for all of the participants. Next year this event will run 4 days! I'm already looking forward to coming back. I look forward to returning when the playground is completed and visiting when I'm in old NW Reno.

    Photos
    Rancho San Rafael Regional Park - Happy Halloween 2022!

    Happy Halloween 2022!

    Rancho San Rafael Regional Park - Outdoor Fitness Court

    Outdoor Fitness Court

    Rancho San Rafael Regional Park - Dog park lake

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    Dog park lake

    Mt Rose Summit - hiking - Updated May 2026

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