Hidden Gem Hikes in Reno Tahoe

Over the years, I’ve explored just about every corner of this region—on foot, on two wheels, and on the open road. What I love most is that there’s something here for everyone: whether you’re in town for a quick weekend escape or you’re chasing a multi-day adventure!

• Most scenic hikes
• Hikes close to Reno
• Best of Tahoe hikes
• Family friendly hikes

Mt. Rose Full Moon Hike

(10.6 miles round trip, 2,500 ft gain)

If there’s one hike I’d bottle up and keep forever, it’s this one. I usually start around 4:30 p.m. in the summer, so I’m up on the summit as soon as the sun starts to set (weekdays are best, if you can swing it, since there are less crowds). On the way down, the moon will start to rise… that's when the real magic starts to happen. Bring a fully charged headlamp and a puffy jacket or windbreaker (yes, even in the summer)! 

• Trailhead: Mt. Rose Summit Trailhead off Hwy 431
• Best Time: June–October (pick a night with a full moonrise)

Shirley Canyon

(3.5 miles one way to High Camp, 2,000+ ft gain)
This trail doesn’t waste any time—within minutes, you’re scrambling over polished granite with waterfalls rushing at your side. Early summer is the best time to hike this trail with its rushing waterfalls, while late summer is perfect for taking a snack break and dipping your feet in the crystal clear pools. I love to pack a picnic and stop at Shirley Lake before pushing on to the summit. Bonus: Dogs are welcome, and they can even ride the Aerial Tram down with you!

• Trailhead: Palisades Tahoe parking area near the base village
• Best Time: May–July for waterfalls, September for fewer crowds
• Pro Tip: Take the tram down from High Camp to save your knees!

Hope Valley

(variable mileage)
When fall rolls around, this is the place to see the aspens explode into gold. From late September to mid-October, the whole valley glows. You can choose mellow loops or longer linked trails. I like starting near the Hope Valley Wildlife Area and making a loop before treating yourself to a post-hike dinner at the Desolation Hotel, near the entrance of the valley on Hwy 88.

• Trailhead: Hope Valley Wildlife Area pullout off Hwy 88
• Best Time: Late September–mid October

Peavine Peak

(trails vary)
Peavine is my go-to for a “big bang for your buck” adventure, the closest trails to downtown Reno! From the summit, you can see the Reno skyline, the Truckee Meadows and the surrounding mountain ranges. In May and June, the wildflowers are in full bloom with varieties of lupine, paintbrush and balsamroot.

• Trailhead: Evans Canyon or Keystone Canyon
• Best Time: Spring for wildflowers

Thomas Creek

(3–9 miles depending on turnaround spot)
 A shady, pine-lined trail that’s heaven in fall when the aspens light up in bright golds and oranges. In spring and summer, the creek is a perfect spot for pups (and overheated hikers) to splash around and dip their feet or paws in!

• Trailhead: Off Timberline Drive
• Best Time: Year-round, though snowy in winter
• Pro Tip: Link to Dry Pond Loop for views of the Carson Range and Mt. Rose Wilderness

Mt. Tallac

(10.5 miles RT, 3,200 ft gain)

A true Tahoe classic, this is my favorite peak to summit in Tahoe. It’s a steady climb, but the summit delivers unmatched views of Lake Tahoe, the Desolation Wilderness and Lake Aloha. Start early—the parking lot fills quickly.

• Trailhead: Mt. Tallac TH off Hwy 89
• Best Time: July–October

Rifle Peak

(6.5 miles RT, 2,200 ft gain)
A very steep but rewarding summit on Tahoe’s northeast shore, with fields of lupine and jaw-dropping views. This is the trail for you if you love high alpine meadows and sweeping views!

• Trailhead: Marlene Street in Incline Village, Nevada
• Best Time: Summer

Flume Trail

(~14 miles one way)

One of the most iconic trails in Tahoe, hugging the mountainside and delivering sweeping views of the lake. If you’re uneasy with heights, take it slow. Starting at Spooner Lake is the easier approach, and the morning light is incredible.

• Trailhead: Spooner Lake State Park
• Best Time: June–October

*There are Flume Trail closures starting March 31, 2025 through 2026. Check your trails and trailheads.

Tahoe Meadows Loop

(1–2 miles)
This easy boardwalk loop is perfect for kids, strollers or just a mellow day. In summer, wildflowers are everywhere, and in the fall, it’s a prime spot for seeing mountain chickadees and other birds. It also doubles as a great stargazing spot thanks to low light pollution.

• Trailhead: Tahoe Meadows parking, Mt. Rose Hwy
• Best Time: July for wildflowers and winter for snowshoeing!

East Shore Trail

(3 miles one way)
A paved, stroller-friendly trail with some of the best lake views anywhere. You can walk all the way to Sand Harbor, stopping for swims in the coves along the way. Make sure to bring a towel!

• Trailhead: Tunnel Creek Café
• Best Time: Year-round; Early mornings before crowds

Truckee Riverwalk 

(2–3 miles)
For an easy-going adventure, stroll along the river in downtown Reno. It’s gorgeous in every season and a local favorite for low-key days.

• Trailhead: Start at Idlewild Park or the Riverwalk District
• Pro Tip: Treat yourself with a little ice cream at Rolled Mountain Creamery

Desolation Wilderness

(Variable distance; Wilderness permits required)
My favorite overnight backpacking trip is from Echo Lake to Lake Aloha in Desolation Wilderness, packed with crystal blue waters, granite peaks and wide open sky. In summer, you can even take the Echo Lake water taxi to shave off a few miles. Just remember: bear canisters are required here, so pack smart and keep the wilderness wild.

• Trailhead: Echo Lakes Resort or Glen Alpine
• Best Time: July–September
• Pro Tip: Bring lots of bug spray - heavy mosquitos in the area