In Northern Nevada we are so lucky to be surrounded by the majestic Sierra mountains. Your dogs are excited to get out and play during the sunny season, and we have just the list for you to paw-ruse. Some of the best hikes in Reno/Tahoe are right in your backyard! Whether you need a slow and easy trail for an older, less athletically inclined friend, or you’re looking for a heart pumping, heavy panting excursion, here’s a list of our favorite trails so you can find the right destination for your outdoorsy dog.
- Sparks Marina (Sparks): Once an abandoned quarry, this lowkey walking spot features a cement pathway that lights up after dark. The sparks marina covers two miles and is perfect for older dogs looking for an evening stroll.
- Rancho San Rafael (Northwest Reno): This beautiful landscape is perfect for exercising your dog. With a self-guided natural trail and a wide-open space for games, your pup will be beggin’ to play past dark. Rancho San Rafael also features access to Peavine mountain trails for the more ambitious canine.
- Mount Rose Wilderness (Lake Tahoe- North Shore): Is your dog fond of endurance runs? Get your wilderness fix with the 6-mile, 2000-foot hike to the Mount Rose Summit. Mount Rose also has more than 20 miles of designated canine trails.
- Prey Meadows/Skunk Harbor (Lake Tahoe-East Shore): With beautiful views of the lake and a thick pine forest, your dog will be howling for the 1.5-mile hike to Prey meadows and Skunk Harbor. Explore the remains of an old railroad built in the 1870’s, then sit back and enjoy the waves and the sandy cove at Skunk Harbor.
- Hunter Creek Trail (Southwest Reno): This trail takes you through the forest and guides you to a beautiful waterfall. The 5.2 mile high-desert trail can be a little much if your dog isn’t an experienced hiker, but fear not! At the base of the trail you can follow the Steamboat Ditch trail instead. This lazy, winding trail runs through neighborhoods, a better option for mellow dogs.
- Lower Galena Creek Trail This moderate hike takes you 4 miles through the sagebrush and the Jeffrey Pine Forest. There is plenty of shade on this trail, so this is a great hike for super hot days.
Fuel up before the fun at one of these dog-friendly eateries in Reno!