Here, visitors will find spectacular views of the majestic Sierra Nevada and the Carson Range. Popular activities in the park include nature study, bird watching, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, windsurfing, water skiing, catamaran sailing, jet skiing and fishing. A campground, boat launches, group use area, day-use picnic sites and equestrian trailhead are available. A wetlands area with a viewing tower and interpretive displays is a new addition to the park. The park is located 10 miles north of Carson City and 15 miles south of Reno. Take U.S. 395 north to the East Lake Boulevard exit, than drive north on East Lake Boulevard approximately 3.1 miles to the park entrance. From Reno, take 395 south to the East Lake Boulevard intersection, turn left, and drive south on East Lake Boulevard for 7.1 miles to the park entrance.
not really a defined trail. had a few wild horses block part of the path and there were lots of birds around but overall wasn't what I expected from reviews here :/ meh
really good trail definitely getting into snake season saw one snake slithering across the trail so definitely be careful.
Realy good trail did most of the trail without looking at the map. Both of our dogs handled the trail easily
I wasn't real excited going around the back side of the hill to discover that there was not a path where the app said there was. Considering the sign at the beginning of the trail talking about Rattlers, I did not want to chance things with my dog and head off through the sagebrush. We ended up walking down the road until it met back up and the bottom. The trail going back was very flat and in my opinion the best part of the trail. From this part you can see the view of Washoe Lake and the mountains. The heard of deer was there for me as well and the flowers are starting to bloom, which was very nice.
I enjoyed the gazebo and view from the top.
We were pleasantly surprised with this hike. We hiked it the end of April, which was perfect. It’s high desert, so it could get pretty hot in the warmer months of summer. Very little shade or water. Spring is definitely the time to go on this hike. We took the trail up to the gazebo, which had a lovely little stream, beautiful desert peach blooming, other wild flowers and great markers identifying the different plants along the trail. At the top where the gazebo is, is a spectacular view of Washoe Valley, Washoe Lake, Mt. Rose and Slide Mountain. Then we hiked over to Deadman’s Loop which has no trees. no shade whatsoever. We came across beautiful wild flowers tucked alongside the sagebrush, more desert peach blooming and a large herd of deer. This hike is worth doing. As others have stated, it’s a great first hike after the winter months. We feel like we found a gem with this one.
Nice little hike! Enjoyed the little creek and gazebo on the way. Beautiful view of washoe lake! Kid friendly
Started trail from North of Virginia City, and went West to Washoe Lake. Great trail for beginners looking to challenge themselves on a few technical spots throughout. Would not suggest a stock full size truck or SUV as the technical areas are quite small and washed out. Most of the trail is easy with the exception of previously mentioned technical sections which would be difficult for first timers without a partner. Full trip will take about an hour.
(Vehicle used was a 2016 Colorado with 2 inch lift and 32 inch tires)
This trail surprised me. Even though this time of year, all the fauna is brown. I had a really good time seeing all of the birds. a bunch of Wood ducks, a couple of Mallards, a Heron, a Red Tailed Hawk and a few Black Birds. There were prints from several Deer on the trail. I was thankful for the strong breeze that Washoe Valley is known for. Without it the bugs could have been bad even at this time of year.
Great hike for getting back in to the swing of things. My dog enjoyed it. I imagine in the summer there isn’t enough shade to bring a dog though.
Easy hike although there is no shade and it was blazing hot today! I recommend doing this less than 2 mile walk on a cooler day.
Nice little hike with amazing view of Washoe Lake. We saw wild horse as well.
Very narrow and grass up to your knees in some spots. Trail disappears about .7 miles in if you start to the left. We ended up taking the road for about a quarter mile to get back on a walkable part of the trail. There is a break off point behind the hill where you can hike it to get a good view of the lake.
We camped at Washoe Lake in August 2016 to view the Perseid Meteor shower. Got an early start one morning with one of the doggos & enjoyed this jaunt.
Great walk, beautiful area with a lot of flora and fauna.
Kids enjoyed the gazebo lookout point and small creek.
Great view of Washoe, easy warm up hike.
This is a great trail with beautiful views of Washoe Valley. Today I asked a park ranger who was buried in the grave site at the bottom of the hill, apparently there is a dog and a memorial for a woman who hiked the trail every day, however she is not buried there.
nice little hike
Someone put up a coded gate on Duck Hill Road. This trail is no longer accessible via that route. If you drive a couple miles down the road, there is a small area to park that is at the base of the hill with the gazebo. Relatively steep.
Awesome short trail. Did it this morning, New Years Day, 2015, ON a great sunny day. Cant wait to do it again and going further up the hill.