Dog-Friendly Trails and Parks in Reno Tahoe

It’s a proven fact, dogs tend to add a little extra happiness to any activity. Even cat people can agree. So, let your furry friend encourage you to get outside and have some fun. Reno Tahoe offers beautiful, dog-friendly hiking trails and at the end of the day, our area offers some great pet-friendly hotels for you and your best friend to unwind.

Grab your best (furry) friend and check out these dog-friendly outings in Reno, Sparks and Lake Tahoe

Hunter Creek Trail

Turn west on Mayberry Drive from McCarran Boulevard, south on Plateau Road and west on Woodchuck Circle. Follow Woodchuck Circle, and the trailhead is just beyond the traffic circle.

This will prove a great workout for both you and your companion. To make it to Hunter Creek waterfall (water level dependent on the year) you’ll be hiking approximately 7 miles. Of course, with hard work comes big reward… the view of Reno is fantastic. While you won’t want to plan a hike in the dark, time your adventure just right to make the return trip while the sun is setting to see the city lights.

Rancho San Rafael Regional Park

Take the Sierra Street exit off of I-80 and head north on Sierra Street. The entrance to the park is on your left.

Rancho San Rafael offers plenty to do for dogs and humans alike. There are several trails to explore, one of which leads to a fascinating Basque monument hidden in the trees. If you’re ready to take a break, but your pup is still wanting to play, check out the large dog park in the heart of Rancho San Rafael Park. They have plenty of room to run and will quickly make friends with the other visitors.

Looking for more to explore? Head up the local 1.9-mile trail of the ‘N’ offering a view of the park and downtown cityscape below. Look over the white rocks students repaint once a year when they hike to the top.  After your well-deserved break, follow the trail back down and out to your car and start your next journey.

Sparks Marina Loop Trail

Exit I-80 at the N. McCarran exit and head north. Turn right on Nichols and the park will be straight ahead.

If you’re just looking for a leisurely outing, the Sparks Marina is a perfect spot. The trail itself is a 2-mile, paved loop around water with people fishing, paddleboarding and sailing. One section of the marina is gated for dogs to run off-leash. They have plenty of space to run on land and access to the water if they want to take a little dip. It does get busy, so make sure your furry friend can handle other dogs, people and the occasional wildlife critter.

Tunnel Creek Trail

1.8 miles north of Sand Harbor State Park. Park near the Tunnel Creek Cafe on State Route 28.

This 3.3-mile trail is known for a very special reason – it is home to the famous Monkey Rock. That’s right, once you hike your way up you’ll be greeted by a rock with an uncanny resemblance to a friendly gorilla. You can continue to connect with several longer trails like the Tahoe Rim Trail and Flume Trail, or just snap a picture with Monkey Rock and call it a successful day.

Mt. Rose Trail

Approx. 16 miles west on Mount Rose Highway from US 395. Park in the Mount Rose Summit parking lot.

The beauty of this hike, in addition to the actual beauty that surrounds you, is the ability to keep it fairly easy or make it a challenge for you and your pup. The full trail is 4.6 miles one-way with the second half offering more of an incline. For those looking for an easier hike, make your way to the gorgeous waterfall before turning back around. You won’t regret it and dogs love to cool down in the water.

Planning a vacation with your furry friend? Find pet-friendly hotels in Reno Tahoe.