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Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop

Moderate

2.9

(1)

hikers

Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop

Q: Where can I park to access the Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop?

Parking is available at Mayberry Park. There's a small lot near the entrance, and you can also find spots along the street.

Q: Is the Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the 7.5 km loop is generally considered moderate, but it is family-friendly and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. The initial climb on the Tom Cooke Trail has switchbacks and can be steep, but once on the main Steamboat Ditch path, it's relatively flat. It's part of an urban trail system and is well-maintained.

Q: Is this trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog remains on a leash throughout the hike.

Q: What interesting features or landmarks will I see along the way?

The loop offers several notable features. You'll cross a Bridge Over the Truckee River , encounter the historic Hole In The Wall (a tunnel for the Steamboat Ditch), and learn about the Steamboat Ditch itself, an irrigation canal built in the 1870s. Keep an eye out for the historic Airmail Arrow on a hilltop above Hole-in-the-Wall. The trail also provides scenic views of wildflowers, cityscapes, and desert landscapes.

Q: What is the terrain like on the loop?

The terrain consists primarily of dirt and gravel paths. Be aware that the initial climb on the Tom Cooke Trail can be steep and eroded in sections. There are also narrow areas, particularly along drainage paths, and a section where the trail drops into a wash. The trail has very little shade, so be prepared for sun exposure.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. In winter, the flume for the Steamboat Ditch can feature beautiful icicles. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Summer can be hot due to the lack of shade, so an early morning or late afternoon hike is recommended during warmer months.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to hike here?

No, there are no specific fees or permits required to hike the Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop, as it's part of an urban trail system maintained by the City of Reno.

Q: How long does it typically take to complete the loop?

The full 7.5 km loop typically takes around 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

Q: Does this route connect to other trails?

Yes, the loop offers access to the extensive Steamboat Ditch Trail, which stretches for over 40 miles, providing options for longer excursions towards south Reno or Verdi. The route also passes through sections of the Steamboat Ditch Trail and the Tom Cooke Trail.

Q: What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

Given the lack of shade, it's essential to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and appropriate footwear for dirt and gravel paths. Binoculars can be great for birdwatching and enjoying the expansive views.

02:05

7.46km

140m

Hiking

Hike the moderate 4.6-mile Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop in Mayberry Park, featuring historical sites and scenic views near Reno.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Waypoints

Start point

Get Directions

587 m

Bridge Over the Truckee River

Highlight • Bridge

Really cool bridge across the Truckee river. There's picnic tables just off the the bridge in a nice shaded area. You can access the river here as well which is …

Tip by

1.50 km

Tom Cooke & Steamboat Ditch Trail Junction

Highlight • Trail

This spot serves as an access point to the Tom Cooke Trail, which leads to Mayberry Park on the Truckee River. It also accesses the Steamboat Ditch that can take …

Tip by

4.38 km

Hole In The Wall

Highlight • Structure

Great destination for a hike or bike along the Steamboat Ditch Trail. Nearby trees provide shade in the summer but the area can be icy/snowy in winter.

Tip by

7.46 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

6.78 km

619 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

4.58 km

1.55 km

1.27 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Thursday 16 July

31°C

16°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop?

Parking is available at Mayberry Park. There's a small lot near the entrance, and you can also find spots along the street.

Is the Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the 7.5 km loop is generally considered moderate, but it is family-friendly and suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. The initial climb on the Tom Cooke Trail has switchbacks and can be steep, but once on the main Steamboat Ditch path, it's relatively flat. It's part of an urban trail system and is well-maintained.

Is this trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog remains on a leash throughout the hike.

What interesting features or landmarks will I see along the way?

The loop offers several notable features. You'll cross a Bridge Over the Truckee River, encounter the historic Hole In The Wall (a tunnel for the Steamboat Ditch), and learn about the Steamboat Ditch itself, an irrigation canal built in the 1870s. Keep an eye out for the historic Airmail Arrow on a hilltop above Hole-in-the-Wall. The trail also provides scenic views of wildflowers, cityscapes, and desert landscapes.

What is the terrain like on the loop?

The terrain consists primarily of dirt and gravel paths. Be aware that the initial climb on the Tom Cooke Trail can be steep and eroded in sections. There are also narrow areas, particularly along drainage paths, and a section where the trail drops into a wash. The trail has very little shade, so be prepared for sun exposure.

What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. In winter, the flume for the Steamboat Ditch can feature beautiful icicles. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Summer can be hot due to the lack of shade, so an early morning or late afternoon hike is recommended during warmer months.

Are there any fees or permits required to hike here?

No, there are no specific fees or permits required to hike the Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop, as it's part of an urban trail system maintained by the City of Reno.

How long does it typically take to complete the loop?

The full 7.5 km loop typically takes around 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

Does this route connect to other trails?

Yes, the loop offers access to the extensive Steamboat Ditch Trail, which stretches for over 40 miles, providing options for longer excursions towards south Reno or Verdi. The route also passes through sections of the Steamboat Ditch Trail and the Tom Cooke Trail.

What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

Given the lack of shade, it's essential to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and appropriate footwear for dirt and gravel paths. Binoculars can be great for birdwatching and enjoying the expansive views.

Is there any shade along the trail?

No, there is very little shade along the Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop. Hikers should be prepared for full sun exposure, especially during warmer months. Plan your hike for cooler parts of the day if possible.