Hiking
Hunter Creek Trail is a Local Favorite
Alex and Pete
Exploring the area since 1992. Anytime outdoors together is a good day. “In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous” - Aristotle.
Have a quick stay in Reno? Looking for easy access to the iconic scenery of the Eastern Sierra? Take a short drive to the outskirts of Reno, and all of it is within reach. Tucked into the foothills of the Sierras, just a hop, skip, and jump from downtown, is Hunter Creek Trail. This trail is not a difficult hike, but there are sections that get narrow and rocky.
Getting to the Trailhead
Depending on the season, you’ll want to get an early start to beat the heat and get a parking spot. On your way to the trail, stop by the locals’ favorite, Coffeebar, for delicious coffee and tea options. Roasted locally, the coffee is exceptional. The shop offers the usual food accompaniments, but the house-made energy bites will keep you fueled up for the hike. There are a few locations in Reno, which makes travel time easy.
Your next stop is the Micheal D. Thompson trailhead, which is easy to find on most map apps. There are water and bathroom facilities located next to the parking lot. Local's tip: if you can’t park near the trailhead, park just west of the Woodchuck Circle and Plateau Road intersection. This will take you along the Steamboat ditch trail, but links up with Hunter Creek at the first creek crossing—can’t miss it, it’s got a big metal bridge to the left of the trail. It will add about two miles to your hike, though.
Hiking Hunter Creek Trail
Once you’re on the Hunter Creek Trail, get ready for a fast 5.8-mile out-and-back ecologically diverse trip through the Eastern Sierra. It starts in the desert with plenty of sage and rabbitbrush. In the early summer, mule’s ear will dot the hillsides with its yellow flowers. The trail can be a little rocky as you move into the canyon, so wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring hiking poles. The trail winds uphill as you head deeper into the landscape. Pause every once in a while to take a look behind you, as expansive views of Reno will open up along the trail.
About two miles in, the landscape shifts very quickly into low aspen, willow and cottonwood trees before you cross into a grove of pine trees. This is my favorite section. The needles from the pines are layered along the trail, absorbing sound and it can become very quiet. The grove of pines in this section also offers plenty of shade in the summer months. This continues until reaching the waterfall (just under three miles), the highlight of the trail.
If you follow the main trail to the left, it will cross over the creek with the use of a bunch of logs. Be careful, as it can be a little slippery! Crossing to the east side of the creek provides a better vantage point for viewing the waterfall. Once across, continue moving towards the sound of the falls. This is a great spot to stop for lunch or a brief snack. The water stays shaded through its journey, so it can remain quite cold.
Once you’re done ionizing in the waterfall’s mist, it’s a downhill hike out the way you came in. This trail can be busy in the summer, but go in early spring and late fall (or even winter!) and you’re sure to get solitary moments. All in all, a great hike that’s easily accessible. Enjoy!
