Hit the Trail – Explore These Favorite Local Hikes

Here’s the good news, Reno Tahoe is perfect for hiking all year round! Explore the great outdoors, soak in the sunshine, and enjoy the beauty of the mountains and the spring colors with these hikes for all fitness levels. Whether you enjoy a casual, scenic short hike, or breaking a sweat and finding vistas you can have all to yourself, here are some favorites to suit whatever you’re looking for. This fall weather is even the perfect condition for your heart-pumping hikes.

“Conversational” Hikes

Want to catch up with friends while enjoying the fresh air? Or even get your outdoor fix even if you’re short on time? These trails are perfect if you are looking for a short hike that isn’t too strenuous. 

Bartley Ranch Loop Trail is a 1.5-mile hike located near suburban south Reno that rewards hikers with great views of the city from the top. There isn’t much shade during the summer, so be sure to bring a hat and a bottle of water, especially for your furry friend.

Good for all skill levels, the Tom Cooke Trail is a 3.9-mile trail located west of downtown, with lots of side trails and views of the city and surrounding desert. This loop trail is dog-friendly and perfect for hiking, walking and running.

Silver Willow Trail, Galena Creek Recreation Area and Dorostkar Park Nature Trail are all well-trafficked trails under 2 miles long. Leashed dogs are allowed on these trails, and their moderate terrain makes them perfect for group hikes or outings with little ones.

“Heart-Pumping” Hikes

Pack some extra sunscreen and water, and check out one of these more challenging hikes near Reno. The tired legs will be worth it – you will be rewarded with panoramic views and other hidden gems!

The popular Hunter Creek Trail is an out-and-back hike, over varied terrain, that follows Hunter Creek and rewards explorers with a waterfall at the end. This 5.8-mile hike starts in a desert landscape and turns into a pine forest as the elevation increases. It is dog-friendly and the creek provides a place for your furry friend to get a drink and jump in for a quick swim. This trail is popular and well-traveled year-round.

Cross Peak Trail is easily accessible from northwest Reno and has expansive views of the city from the top – a perfect reward and photo opportunity. The last 1/4 mile is very steep, but it only takes about 20 minutes to reach the summit.

Two other moderately difficult trails are Keystone Canyon Trail and Poeville Trail, which are both out-and-back trails longer than four miles. Poeville Trail is commonly used for hiking and Keystone Canyon Trail appeals to both hikers and mountain bikers. In the spring and early summer, both have budding wildflowers and it is a good idea to bring extra water due to lack of shade. In the fall and winter you can enjoy the color of the trees and the freshness of the air. Or if you’re looking for a hike near Lake Tahoe, you can explore the Rubicon Trail‘s five-mile stretch to see the Rubicon Point Lighthouse and Vikingsholm Castle.

“Up For a Challenge” Hikes

If you’re feeling ready for a challenge and some 360 degree views, then these hikes to the top of two of the area’s peaks are worth the effort.

Peavine Peak Trail is an 8.5-mile, dog-friendly hike with an elevation gain of 2,834 feet. This hike is not easy so it is recommended that hikers have a strong endurance and be ready for a steady, constant climb. The effort pays off since the views of Reno, Sparks and the surrounding landscape are hard to beat from the top! Bring extra water and expect to be out for most the day.

Marlette Lake Trail from Spooner Lake is a 10.2 mile out and back hike located on the beautiful east shore of Lake Tahoe. This trail has almost 1800 feet in elevation gain and is the perfect path to explore with your dog. With perfect views of Marlette Lake and Lake Tahoe, this can be a challenging hike but totally worth it.

For more information on other great hikes in the Reno Tahoe area, visit alltrails.com for reviews and facts, and check out these pictures that will motivate you to get moving! Hiking in the springtime? Visit our guide to the best Reno and Lake Tahoe hikes with waterfalls and wildflowers here.