Reno Nevada is the 3rd biggest city
in Nevada, and lays claim to being the “biggest little city
in the world”. Many out of state visitors come to Reno expecting
it to be a smaller version of Las Vegas, but Reno has a character
all its own. Those looking for casinos and gambling will find
plenty here, but they’ll also find a number of opportunities
for outdoor adventure.
There are many good hikes in and around Reno Nevada. The Hunter
Creek Trail is a 5-mile round-trip hike down canyon walls and
through the forest to a peaceful and attractive waterfall. For
a view of the canyon from above visitors should try the Jones
Creek/White Creek Loop. Hiker in the mood for an alpine experience
can take the somewhat more demanding Mt. Rose trail and get wonderful
views of Washoe Valley and the Tahoe Basin.
There are several state parks near Reno to enjoy. The Davis Creek
Regional Park 20 miles south of Reno gives visitors the opportunity
to paddle around Washoe Lake, camp in the Toiyabe National Forest
or hike the Sierra Mountains. Galena Creek Park has cross-country
skiing trails for use in the winter, as well as hills for sledding.
Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park’s 13,400 acres are chock full
of outdoor adventure, including a bike trail over the Comstock-era
water flume 1,600 feet over Lake Tahoe.
The Truckee River Whitewater Park is open all year round in the
heart of downtown Reno. There are 11 drop pools and Class II &
III rapids to ride, and a kayak racing course is under construction.
