Is there anything better than admiring the stunning fall foliage on one of the hiking trails in Reno with your doggo?

You know that feeling when that crisp autumn air hits your lungs, and you breathe deep, practically smelling the sunshine in the air? Then, after taking in the puffy white clouds floating in the bright blue sky, you look to see your favorite furry friend frolicking in and delighting in the outdoors.
Yep, it’s the best feeling in the world!

If you’re in Reno (or Sparks or Lake Tahoe—we’ve got you covered!), there are plenty of gorgeous trails that you can hike with your pup and snap some pics of the changing colors. Here are nine of our favorite hiking trails in Reno—and beyond—where you can take your dog and see the fall colors.

9 Scenic Fall Hiking Trails In Reno Where You Can Take Your Dog

Brown’s Creek Loop Trail

Brown’s Creek Loop Trail is a great place to go hiking in the fall in the Reno area. This easy-to-moderate 5-mile hike takes you through Mount Rose Wilderness, where you’ll experience the best of the area’s sights and sounds. There’s something for everyone here, from breathtaking vistas to bird gazing to forest bathing. So, don’t forget to bring your hiking boots and four-legged companions with you on this adventure.

Crystal Peak Park

Near Verdi, Nevada, Crystal Peak Park has a 0.6-mile loop route with a river that’s suitable for hikers of all abilities. From March through October, the trail is ideal for various activities, and the colors are gorgeous when the fall comes. Dogs are allowed on the route, but they must be on a leash at all times.

Galena Creek Trail

Galena Creek Trail, located at the base of Mount Rose, is great for a morning or afternoon stroll. The 4.7-mile trail features aspen, pine, manzanita, and a snow-fed creek. The road winds past communities and surrounds the Montreux Golf Course, giving you a glimpse of life in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.

Hunter Creek Trail

One of the most popular hiking trails in Reno, Hunter Creek Trail is well-maintained and suitable for the whole family. This 6.4-mile circuit exhibits Northern Nevada’s diverse vegetation and animals. This intermediate to advanced route climbs 1,240 feet across a canyon to a 30-foot waterfall. Bring plenty of sunblock and water because there isn’t much shade till the top.

Incline Flume Trail

Located in Incline Village, Nevada, on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, the 4.3-mile Incline Flume Walk is a regularly frequented out, and back trail with lovely wildflowers and is suitable for hikers of all abilities. Hiking, running, wildlife excursions, and snowshoeing are the most popular activities on the trail. Dogs are permitted to use this trail, but they must be restrained on a leash.

Jones Creek Loop

Washoe Valley’s Jones Creek Loop is a 1.5-mile loop route with a river and amenities for hikers of all abilities. The trail is most popular with hikers, walkers, horses, and mountain bikers from April through November. Dogs are allowed on the route, but they must be on a leash at all times.

Spooner Lake Trail

Spooner Lake Trail is a 2.5-mile loop trail with a lake near Glenbrook, Nevada, that is quite popular with hikers in Reno and Tahoe. It is appropriate for hikers of all levels of ability. The path is available all year and provides a variety of recreation opportunities. Dogs are welcome on this trail, but they must always be kept on a leash.

Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop

The Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop is a 1.3-mile moderately trafficked loop route near Washoe Valley, Nevada that features magnificent natural beauty and is suitable for hikers of all abilities. The trail is best used from May to October and is used primarily for hiking, walking, nature tours, and snowshoeing. This trail is also open to dogs, although they must be kept on a leash.

Upper Thomas Creek Trail

The 14.7-mile Upper Thomas Creek Trail is a visual treat in the fall. This southwest Reno path is excellent for an all-day adventure or a dog walk. Water and food breaks are plentiful along the route, which parallels Thomas Creek. River crossings and aspen tree lanes almost guarantee you’ll feel invigorated and at one with nature.

Training Your Dog To Behave On Hiking Trails In Reno

OK, so there is one feeling even better than enjoying one of these hiking trails in Reno with your pup—and that’s when your BFF (best fur friend) can hike like a pro—whether they’re on or off-leash.
Wondering if your doggo really needs training?

Consider the following:

Signs your dog needs off-leash training:

• They’ve never been off-leash!
• They’re a flight risk and have run out or charged doors in the past
• They don’t come back reliably when you call them
• They put their nose in random holes and bushes with reckless abandon
• They chase anything that moves

We’ve all been there—tugging at a leash to rein in fido or calling out their name endlessly and disturbing the beautiful quiet of nature. It’s frustrating, frightening, and embarrassing to be that dog parent. So, consider our “Best-Of” Training Program an early holiday present to you and your pup.

The “Best of” Package from Dog Gone Amazing includes two classes outdoors and on hiking trails in Reno. We’ll work with your dog one-on-one to ensure they’re familiar with the traffic laws. To prevent them from ambushing people and other dogs on the route, we’ll concentrate on off-leash control, educate your dog to come when called, and work on vital skills like “get off” or “let go.”
So, get ready to hit some happy hiking trails in Reno and get your dog the training they—and you—deserve.