Unwind on Reno's Trails

Hiking trails in Reno don’t demand you to be a seasoned hiker to get the most out of them.

by American Trails Staff

American Trails (AT) and the Professional TrailBuilders Association (PTBA) will join forces to co-host the International Trails Summit (a collaborative effort of the 25th International Trails Symposium and Training Institute and the Sustainable Trails Conference) in Reno, Nevada during the week of April 17, 2023. Need a break from sessions, or just visiting the Reno area? Reno, Nevada hiking trails offer outdoor lovers of all levels a way to unwind and unplug.

Many of Reno’s most popular hiking trails are perfect for beginners, those short on time, or families with little ones. They are perfect for any fitness level, and anywhere you look in Reno there’s a trail to wander down that will reward you with unbeatable views.

The City of Reno hosts an interactive map of trails in Reno and the surrounding area. You can zoom in and out, pan in any direction, and even view a trail on a street map, satellite image, or topographical image. Select a park or trail name from the list for a detailed map of the area. Find out more >>

A Few Popular City Trails

Explore the most popular city walk trails near Reno with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers, and nature lovers like you.

Huffaker Park Lookout Trail

In south Reno, the Huffaker Park Lookout Trail gives way to sweeping views of the Reno skyline. A hike around the entire loop is 1.7 miles and is perfect for both walking and trail running. There is also a shorter option from the same trailhead if your time is limited. Be sure to look for the informational signs along the way explaining some of the flora, fauna, and geology of the area. View map here>>

Reno Midtown Mural Tour

For art lovers, the Reno Midtown Mural Tour route makes for a fun way to log some miles and enjoy the street art of Reno. There are more than 80 beautiful pieces of art located along this pathway. Discover some of the hidden alleys with colorful murals painted by local artists in the area. This 1.4-mile loop trail is considered an easy route and takes an average of 25 minutes to complete. That's if you don't stop at one of the breweries along the way!

Oxbow Nature Study Area

Oxbow Nature Study Area is a 22-acre conservation area and public access nature space with year-round restrooms. The nature study area is jointly managed by the Nevada Department of Wildlife and the City of Reno. Located along the Truckee River, Oxbow is home to a variety of native Nevadan habitats and wildlife.

photo credit: Stuart Macdonald
A planter on the pedestrian bridge above the Truckee River in downtown Reno.

A planter on the pedestrian bridge above the Truckee River in downtown Reno.

Reno Truckee River Trail

A fun paved urban walk through downtown and along the Truckee River. The trail can be continued in either direction. This 3.5-mile out-and-back trail is considered an easy route. It takes about an hour to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, road biking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.

Truckee River Whitewater Park

Ready for some water? Located in downtown Reno, the Truckee River Whitewater Park is the ideal spot to paddle out in a kayak or as a group in a raft without the concern of major rapids. The man-made course is composed of eleven drop pools that range in difficulty over a half-mile stretch and includes a racing course and other obstacles if you’re in the mood to get your heart rate up. Kayakers, at all levels, including beginners, can enjoy the whitewater park.

Before Heading Out

There are many scenic areas near or adjacent to Reno. Additional hiking near Reno includes a myriad of Lake Tahoe hiking trails to choose from that are only a short drive away. Looking for a greater challenge? Check out Visit Reno Tahoe's guide to backpacking the Sierras. Or use your favorite map or app and get out and explore!

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512 views • posted 03/27/2023