The best walks and hikes in Storey County

The Hidden Valley Backcountry Loop is a demanding 4.8-mile (7.7 km) hike that packs 1202 feet (366 metres) of elevation gain into a challenging 2 hours and 53 minutes. This difficult route near Sparks, Nevada, offers expansive views of the Truckee Meadows and Reno from its higher points, with eastward vistas stretching into the desert. You'll navigate a mix of sand, gravel, and bedrock singletrack, often finding horse tracks along the way. The trail follows a west-facing slope, providing consistent sun exposure and a rugged backcountry feel.

Access the Hidden Valley Backcountry Loop directly from the Highland Loop trail, located southeast of the main parking lot. Be aware that this trail is known for its challenging terrain, including steep and slippery sections, and crucially, there are no reliable trail signs or marks. While cairns exist, they can be unreliable, so strong navigation skills are a must for this backcountry experience. Plan for a demanding ascent or precarious descent on the southern part of the loop.

This trail is a true test of skill and endurance, connecting at its summit to a jeep trail that heads towards Virginia City. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as wild horses, jackrabbits, and coyotes, which are commonly spotted in this area. The Hidden Valley Backcountry Loop hiking overview suggests it's best for those with prior experience and possibly specialist equipment, making it a rewarding challenge for seasoned adventurers.

The Tahoe-Pyramid Trail: Reno Section offers a unique blend of urban exploration and natural riverside tranquility. As you follow the Truckee River, you'll pass through diverse scenery, from the shade of Mayberry Park's trees to the vibrant downtown area, with continuous river views. The route is mostly paved, making it a moderate 7.7-mile (12.4 km) hike with a gentle 142 feet (43 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking just over 3 hours.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is accessible year-round, even serving as a good winter hiking option when other trails are snow-covered. Parking is available at various points, with free options in outer parks and metered parking downtown. This popular trail is shared by hikers, cyclists, and runners, so be mindful of others.

This Reno section is part of the larger, ambitious Tahoe-Pyramid Trail, aiming to connect Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake. It follows a historic corridor, once crucial for pioneers, and offers a unique way to experience Reno's natural beauty and urban integration, passing landmarks like the Original Reno Sign and the Truckee River Whitewater Park.

The Lagomarsino Petroglyphs trail offers a rugged journey through a largely trail-less streambed, where you'll navigate soft sand, dense brush, and slippery boulders. The scenery unfolds with rolling hills, scattered juniper trees, and panoramic views of the Truckee Meadows, culminating in the awe-inspiring ancient rock art. Keep an eye out for cool columnar basalt wall sections and potential wildlife sightings like wild horses.

This moderate 7.9-mile (12.8 km) hike, with 590 feet (180 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes. Access to the trailhead often requires a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle for a significant portion of the approach. Cell service is very limited, so come prepared with downloaded maps and plenty of water, especially given the desert climate.

The primary draw is the Lagomarsino Petroglyph Site, a National Historic Site boasting over 2,000 ancient petroglyphs, some potentially 10,000 to 12,000 years old. These fascinating artworks, created by the ancestors of the Northern Paiute people, offer a profound connection to the past. The challenging terrain makes this a unique and rewarding adventure for those seeking a deep dive into Nevada's cultural and natural history.

If you're seeking a long, scenic walk that prioritizes distance over steep climbs, the Mustang Ranch Trail is a solid option. This 9.9-mile (15.9 km) route, rated moderate, follows the Truckee River, offering a mix of dirt and gravel paths. You'll encounter some short sandy and rocky sections that add to the challenge, but the minimal 78 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain means it's more about endurance than vertical effort. Keep an eye out for wild horses roaming the area, a truly special sight along this roughly 4-hour and 1-minute journey.

Planning your visit means being prepared for a shared-use trail; it's popular with both hikers and cyclists. While the trail is generally flat, those sandy and rocky stretches mean sturdy footwear is a good idea. Access points are typically found along the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail in Washoe County, so check local maps for the best starting location. Consider an early start, especially on warmer days, to enjoy the river views and wildlife in peace.

This trail is a significant segment of the broader Tahoe-Pyramid Trail, highlighting the region's natural beauty and ongoing conservation efforts by The Nature Conservancy. The presence of wild horses adds a unique, untamed element to the landscape, making it a memorable experience. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local environment and appreciate the river and wetlands restoration work happening here.

The Lockwood Loop Trail offers a delightful, easy escape into nature, winding along a historic section of the Truckee River. You'll experience a unique blend of riparian and high desert scenery, with opportunities for birdwatching and even spotting wild horses. The flat, gravel and dirt terrain makes this 0.9-mile (1.5 km) route, with its minimal 6 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, an ideal choice for a relaxing outing.

Planning your visit to the Lockwood Loop Trail is straightforward, as it's located in Lockwood Trailhead Park with convenient parking and a vault toilet. This easy 22-minute hike is perfect for families and beginner hikers, offering a peaceful atmosphere away from crowds. There are no permits or fees required, making it an accessible option for a spontaneous outdoor adventure.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Lockwood Loop Trail holds historical significance, tracing a portion of the historic California Trail migration route, marked by a dedicated sign. This adds an interesting layer to your walk, connecting you to the past while enjoying the present-day river views. It's a great option for a quick, high-reward hike in the region.

The Silver Terrace Historic Cemeteries Loop offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, winding through ten distinct burial grounds that feel more like an outdoor museum. You'll traverse hard-packed rock and dirt paths, enjoying wide-open views of Virginia City's historic C Street and the majestic Mount Davidson. Keep an eye out for wild horses, which are known to roam these historic grounds, adding an unexpected element to your walk.

This easy 0.7-mile (1.1 km) hike involves a gentle 71 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 19 minutes to complete, making it accessible for most. While there are some potentially slippery sections, you can opt for easier gravel roads if you prefer. Consider downloading the audio tour to enrich your visit with stories from the past.

What truly sets this trail apart is its rich historical context, showcasing the diverse community of the Comstock Lode era through its unique cultural landscape. It's a place for quiet reflection, connecting you to the miners, shop owners, and working people who built Virginia City, all while surrounded by blooming sagebrush and remnants of past gardens like Vinca and Lilac.

The Damonte Ranch Wetland Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll through a protected wetland environment, providing a refreshing break from city life. As you navigate the paved path, you'll be treated to expansive views of the wetlands, framed by the distant, impressive peaks of Mt. Rose and other surrounding hills. Keep an eye out for seasonal wildflowers and lush greenery that add vibrant color to the landscape, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for a quick escape.

This 0.4-mile (0.7 km) loop is incredibly accessible, featuring only 4 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, making it an easy 10-minute hike suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It's a fantastic choice for families with young children or anyone looking for a gentle outdoor activity. The trail is also dog-friendly, with amenities like doggie bag stations, and connects to Damonte Ranch Park for added convenience.

Beyond the scenic views, the Damonte Ranch Wetland Loop is a haven for wildlife, particularly birdwatchers. Over 155 species have been recorded here, including various ducks, geese, herons, and raptors like American Kestrels. You might even spot muskrats or, if you're lucky, wild mustangs roaming in the broader area, making it a unique spot for wildlife viewing right in Reno.

The Sparks Marina Loop Trail offers a delightful and accessible escape, circling the 77-acre Helms Lake with continuous water views. This paved concrete path is smooth underfoot, making it a breeze for walkers, joggers, and even those with strollers or wheelchairs. You'll enjoy the urban park setting, complete with beaches and picnic areas, all while taking in distant vistas of Mt. Rose and Peavine Mountain.

This easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) loop has a negligible 22 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain and takes roughly 48 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick, family-friendly outing. The park is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM, with multiple parking lots available, ensuring easy access for your visit. Restrooms and benches are conveniently located along the route.

Beyond just hiking, the Sparks Marina Loop Trail is a versatile multi-use path popular for trail running, road biking, and birding. The marina itself offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing, and its location near restaurants and shops makes it a great spot to combine outdoor activity with other local amenities.

For a tranquil and accessible outing near Reno, the Damonte Ranch Wetlands Loop offers a delightful experience. This 3.1-mile (4.9 km) paved path guides you through protected wetlands, providing serene views of a lake and the distant, impressive Mt. Rose. With only 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, it's an easy hike that typically takes around 1 hours and 15 minutes, perfect for a leisurely escape into nature.

Planning your visit is simple, with ample parking available at Damonte Ranch Park, which also provides restrooms and picnic areas. The trail is open year-round and is a popular spot for catching beautiful sunrises and sunsets. It's also dog-friendly, though you'll need to keep your pet on a leash.

This loop is a true gem for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting over 155 recorded bird species, including various ducks, herons, and raptors. You might even spot muskrats or, remarkably, wild mustangs roaming nearby. It's a fantastic way to experience a rich ecosystem seamlessly integrated into a suburban setting.