Five Gorgeous Hikes to Experience Reno-Tahoe’s Vivid Fall Season
The Reno-Tahoe Territory is a kaleidoscope of color and activity during autumn. The crystal clear lakes and rivers ease to a glassy and reflective surface. Aspens, maples and cottonwoods show off vibrant colors. Mountain peaks get kissed with snow and a scurry of wildlife prepares for winter. Hiking Reno-Tahoe Territory’s extensive options of trails and nature walks is the best way to experience this vibrant season. Here are five gorgeous hikes the whole family can enjoy.
Marlette Lake Trail
Marlette Lake is a hidden gem adjacent to Lake Tahoe. Accessed only by OHV and hiking trails, this alpine gem is peaceful, quiet and scenic. Marlette Lake Trail is a moderate 10.2 mile hike lined with aspens, showing off colors of scarlet, ochre and gold. This is a wonderful place to escape to nature and enjoy the beauty of the Lake Tahoe basin.
Rim to Reno Regional Trail System
Easily accessed by Interstate 580 or Mount Rose Scenic Highway, the Rim to Reno Regional Trail System is a network of multi-use, nature and interpretive trails for all ages and abilities. The trails intersect crisp mountain creeks, climb through various ecosystems, and venture into the protected 19,000-acre Mount Rose Wilderness. The Galena Creek Visitor Center Interpretive Trail is great for a quick leg stretch and is ADA accessible, teaching visitors about local ecology and history. The Galena Creek Nature Trail is great for curious little ones where children can learn about local ecology and cultural history along the trail. Active hikers will enjoy the more strenuous options of Dry Pond, Thomas Creek, Jones-White and Rim To Reno Trails, each rewarding with panoramic views of the Washoe Valley and an exploration of Mt. Rose’s impressive elevational zonation. The Galena Creek Visitors Center offers more information on each trail.
Virginia City Cemetery Loop
The Virginia City Cemetery Loop is an easygoing 1.1 mile loop and historical glimpse into the economic and social fabric of Virginia City, once the most important industrial city between Denver and San Francisco. Especially ideal near Halloween, this cemetery loop walks visitors past Victorian-period tombstones and headstones of people from all over the country that came to strike it rich on the Comstock. Visitors can learn more about the historical significance of the cemetery with an accompanying audio tour. The loop is also full of scenic beauty and views of the Virginia range.
Kings Canyon Waterfall Trail
Carson City is nestled at the base of the Eastern Sierra mountain range and offers hikers immediate access to scenic trails of all levels. The Kings Canyon Waterfall Trail is an extension of Kings Canyon Road, where the road turns to trail and makes its way into Kings Canyon. Hikers will find easily accessible tail options. The highlight is the Kings Canyon Waterfall along with other year-round falls, each providing ideal resting places to enjoy the fall beauty.
Pinyon Trail
When the autumn chill and early snows have settled into the mountains, the Pinyon Trail is a gorgeous high desert option. The Pinyon Trail can be found 7 miles east of Gardnerville and is a moderate 5 mile round trip. Situated at the base of the Pinenut Mountains and in a rain shadow of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this trail sees modest precipitation and can be enjoyed year-round. Hikers can enjoy the sun’s autumn warmth, unique high-desert fauna and wide-open views.