Mount Rose Trail is a 11.8 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Incline Village-Crystal Bay, Nevada that features a waterfall and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking, horses, and snowshoeing and is best used from May until October. Dogs and horses are also able to use this trail.
Conquer the summit of Mt Rose and enjoy the waterfalls, alpine lakes and great Lake Tahoe views. Mt. Rose may be the second tallest peak in Tahoe basin and prominent feature of the northern Lake Tahoe skyline, but despite its 2,300ft elevation gain the journey to the peak is best described as pleasant rather than challenging.
As of summer 2018, users have reported that the restrooms at the trailhead are closed for maintenance.
California Travel and Tourism Commision, P.O. Box 1499 , Sacramento, CA, 95812-1499, Phone: 800-862-2543
Tips: - Early summer thru November is a good time to tackle this peak, though the best of the wildflowers in this area can usually be found during late July or early August. - Because of the high elevation snow can remain here well into July. If you're thinking of tackling this trail earlier in the season it would be useful to bring any crampons or snowshoes you may have.
Directions -- From Truckee take interstate I-80 East 2.5 miles to CA-267/CA-89, exit 188B, towards Lake Tahoe. Drive 11.6 miles toward the lake and turn left on CA-28. Drive 4.6 miles on CA 28 until a left turn onto NV-431. Drive 8.2 miles uphill to Mount Rose Summit worry large parking lot is located on the left-hand side. From interstate I-80 in Reno, drive 10 miles South on US-395 to NV-431, the Mount Rose highway, and drive 16 miles East to the summit parking lot. Pit toilets and trash receptacles are available at the top of this year-round pass.
January 18, 2021It’s a bit hard to follow the trail with a lot of snow you must have a good GPS map and confidence to go forward.
January 17, 2021Lots of snow, beautiful scenery. Snowshoes a good idea.
January 16, 2021Snowshoe adventure. We tried to make it to the waterfall but we were losing light. AllTrails map download a must as there is rarely any signage. Perhaps when it is not covered with snow it is easier to follow. Beautiful and peaceful trail!
January 11, 2021Insane. Awesome views.
December 25, 2020Summited Dec 24, 2020. Left trailhead at 7:30am and returned at 5pm, dawn to dusk. I was probably the only person of that day summitting Mount Rose. Trail was well packed for a mile or so, after which it was snowshoe territory right before the summit. In winter conditions, the first half of final ridge climb, right after intersection between Mount Houghton and Mount Rose, was most difficult, as one was traversing along ~40 degree incline while navigating among trees. The north slope of Tamarack Peak was sort of a preparation for that (not the most fun, though). There seemed to be two sets of tracks rounding Mount Houghton, it’s super-easy to slip off trail, which could be disastrous on the way down. The northern slope of Tamarack Peak had lots of ski tracks, bringing some navigational challenges if one wanted the least laborious way around. On a clear and not too windy day like that, the views of Reno and Lake Tahoe at the summit was gorgeous, and overall it’s quite enjoyable even in winter, if weather cooperates.
December 19, 2020December 18, 2020You'll need snowshoes. Winter paths don't follow the AllTrails map, it is whatever is most safe.
November 24, 2020There is a clear trail all the way to the waterfall but you’ll post hole and sink pretty often without snow shoes. Get gaiters and poles and keep extra time.
November 23, 2020November 22, 2020November 19, 2020very nice trail, scenic views and the majesty of mt rose always looking at you till you conquer the summit!! Intense hiking for certain sections.
November 2, 2020Clean and clear!
November 1, 2020November 1, 2020November 1, 2020This hike has been on my list for awhile. Thoroughly enjoyed this hike. Galena Falls was stunning in its frozen state. The trail is well groomed....a tad rocky in spots. The last part of the ascent is a tad steep and loose rock so be careful. We used poles which helps a lot. I do not consider this hike as 'hard' but yet I've been hiking for a while. For those starting out, this can be challenging especially hiking up to 10,778'. Once you reach the Peak, make sure you hike over to the 'Fortress' <wall of rocks> which faces Washoe Lake. It's the perfect place to get out of the wind and be still. Loved it. Be very prepared. Lots of water, food/snacks, and depending on time of year, dress accordingly...layers. During our hike we saw a lot of trail runners, families, and dogs. Stay safe out there and enjoy.
October 31, 2020I did this hike many times. I would not consider it hard but a little but of a challenge at parts. The peak is windy and unless you hike in summer make sure you layer your clothes. Starting September I recommend gloves and a jacket. Beautiful views and very rewarding. Highly recommended.
October 30, 2020Loved this hike! The trail is well established and has a sandy/small rock base for the most part. I believe I viewed 6 lakes from the peak!! So fun and I would revisit anytime!!
October 29, 2020Beautiful hike! Super rewarding. It was very crowded up to the waterfall on a Saturday in October. The beginning of the trail is relatively flat, winds through the woods. After about 2 miles you’ll reach a waterfall, then the incline begins. It was a steep incline with plenty of opportunities to catch your breath with a view. Beautiful fall colors! Amazing 360 degree views of truckee, Reno, & Tahoe. I did this hike as a backpacking trip. We started at 2 pm. Summitted by sunset around 6, then made our way back down to the valley to camp. We tackled Relay peak in the morning, which is how I’d recommend doing it- felt like cake after doing mt. Rose! Hiking up a 10er with a backpack is no joke, but was doable. We camped by a stream so there is water available! Great camping opportunity since Tahoe basin is currently closed to camping.
October 29, 2020October 29, 2020October 25, 2020
