The best walks and hikes around Reno

Yes, Reno is quite dog-friendly. Many trails in the area welcome dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in popular areas or where wildlife is present. Trails like those in Galena Creek Regional Park and along the Truckee River are great options for you and your canine companion. Always check local regulations before you go.

Reno has several family-friendly trails. For a very gentle and accessible walk, the Damonte Ranch Park loop is a great choice. It's a flat, paved path around a wetland area, perfect for strollers and little legs. Galena Creek Regional Park also offers shorter, easier nature trails that are educational and fun for kids.

The most well-known waterfall hike is the Hunter Creek Trail. This popular out-and-back trail follows a creek and culminates in a beautiful 30-foot waterfall, offering a refreshing destination, especially during the warmer months. The trail involves some elevation gain and rocky sections, so it's considered a moderate hike.

You can hike in Reno year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions with moderate temperatures. Summer can be very hot, especially on exposed desert trails, so it's best to start early in the morning and bring plenty of water. Winter hiking is possible on lower elevation trails, but higher routes in the Sierra Nevada will be covered in snow.

Absolutely. For a true challenge, the trail to the summit of Mount Rose is a classic strenuous hike. It's a high-altitude trek that rewards you with incredible panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the entire region. This is a full-day commitment and should only be attempted by experienced hikers who are prepared for the altitude and variable mountain weather.

For summer hiking, it's crucial to dress for the heat and sun. Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. The sun is intense, so sunscreen is a must. Even on shorter hikes, sturdy hiking shoes are recommended as many trails are rocky. Always carry more water than you think you'll need.

Yes, there are many enjoyable loop trails. The Evans Canyon & Miner's Trail loop is a pleasant option that offers a mix of scenery over a manageable distance. Loop hikes are great because they provide constantly changing views without having to retrace your steps.

There are over 40 curated hiking routes around Reno available on komoot, ranging from easy riverside walks to difficult mountain climbs. The region's unique position between the Sierra Nevada and the Great Basin provides a vast and diverse network of trails to explore.

The trails around Reno are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the incredible variety, from the lush, forested paths near Galena Creek to the wide-open vistas from Peavine Mountain. The easy access to beautiful natural scenery so close to the city is a frequently mentioned highlight.

For expansive views, trails that gain some elevation are your best bet. The hike up to the 'N' on the hill in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park provides a fantastic panoramic view of the entire Reno and Sparks area. For more dramatic, high-alpine scenery, the trails in the Mount Rose Wilderness offer breathtaking vistas of the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe.

While most trailheads in the region are best accessed by car, some urban trails are reachable via public transport. The Truckee River Walk, which runs through downtown Reno, is easily accessible. For trails further afield, you will likely need a car. It's always a good idea to check the RTC Washoe bus routes to see if they get you close to city parks like Idlewild or Rancho San Rafael.