3 Best Hiking Trails in Reno, NV

“Rancho San Rafael Regional Park covers 580 acres that has a total length of 7.0 miles, with an elevation gain of 875 feet, and is of a loop type. It takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete the entire trail. Rancho San Rafael Regional Park offers miles of trails for walking, biking, and fishing at Herman's Pond, an urban fishery. The Wilbur D. May Museum, Wilbur D. May Arboretum & Botanical Garden, a visitor center, the historic Ranch House, the Nevada Farms and Families Area, Herman's Pond, five large reservable picnic pavilions, dozens of individual sites, the Basque Sheepherder Monument, miles of trail, a disc golf course, and so much more can also be found here. The park's varied landscape encompasses everything from manicured lawns to native desert grasses and dusty sagebrush wetland habitats, and there are mysteries to explore and discover in a humid environment. The Parks Foundation, through public engagement, education, and the sustainability of their parks, open spaces, and trails, protects and enhances the livability of their communities.”

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“Hunter Creek Trailhead Trailhead is an elegant and exciting location that boasts stunning views of nature. The trail winds along desert slopes for about two-thirds of its length before entering a breathtaking, shaded pine-fir forest that culminates in a spectacular 25-foot waterfall. The trail is 5.9 miles long and heavily trafficked, offering a moderate hike suitable for the whole family. With an elevation gain of 1200 feet, it takes about 2 hours and 57 minutes to complete. The park features a waterfall that flows throughout the year, and the alder and willow greens complement the scenery during the summer, while natural ice sculptures can be seen in the winter. Hunter Creek Trailhead provides ample parking, several picnic tables, and restroom facilities. The trail crosses about 0.5 miles beyond the edge of the wilderness, and a brief climb takes you to the signed entrance to the Mount Rose Wilderness. The trail is well-marked and dog-friendly, and when you reach the end of your hike, you'll be rewarded with a stunning waterfall and large fallen trees to rest on.”

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“Huffaker Park is a 9-acre park that offers scenic views and features native plants. The trail has an elevation gain of 242 feet and is generally considered an easy trail route that takes approximately 47 minutes to complete. The Huffaker Park Lookout Trail circles two hills, and hiking around the entire loop is 1.7 miles. The park has two hills that give hikers a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, ranging from the Virginia Range on the east to the Carson Range (including Mt. Rose) on the west. The park is an undeveloped island that offers unmistakable views in all directions. The Park Lookout Trail has a compressed gravel tread and decomposed granite, making it easily accessible to ADA. Hikers can walk around the whole loop or take the trail between the hills to connect the outer pathways. The park is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the view of the Truckee Meadows. Visitors can use the basketball and tennis courts and the walking and running trails. It also has a huge grass area and a nice, easy-loop trail with decent views.”

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