In Reno Tahoe, the outdoors are a refuge from the hustle and bustle of daily life. And since we have so many outdoor options right at our fingertips, it's easy to find ways to rest, relax and recharge in nature. We've rounded up some of the best outdoor activities for those looking for accessible trails and parks in the area.
Wilbur D. May Arboretum & Botanical Garden
Located minutes from downtown Reno in Rancho San Rafael Park, the 23-acre Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Garden is home to beautiful gardens and plants that can be explored year-round. The arboretum grounds have both paved and gravel paths. The gravel paths are wheelchair accessible when dry but can become muddy. Service dogs are allowed in all areas of Rancho San Rafael Park, including the May Arboretum.
Oxbow Nature Study Area
As one of the few relatively intact riparian areas along the Truckee River, Oxbow Nature Study Area is a natural oasis close to downtown Reno. There is a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that begins near the interpretive center.
Tahoe East Shore Trail
This 3-mile long path connects Sand Harbor Nevada State Park and Incline Village via a wide, paved path. Paid parking is available at either end of the Tahoe East Shore Trail, near Tunnel Creek Café in Incline Village or at Sand Harbor. Be aware that Sand Harbor fills up quickly and can limit parking options for all visitors accessing the trail.
Tahoe-Pyramid Trail
The Tahoe-Pyramid Trail runs from Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake, and the section between Mayberry Park and downtown Reno is paved with several access points. Parking for trail access can be found at Idlewild Park, Mayberry Park, Dorskar Park, Crissy Caughlin Park and downtown Reno.
Tahoe Meadows
Located near the Mount Rose summit, Tahoe Meadows offers an accessible trail system that winds through the beautiful meadow. Since this area does receive plenty of snow trails are often snow-covered in the winter months so check before you plan your winter visit to this area.
Taylor Creek Visitor Center
The accessible 1/2-mile trail at Taylor Creek Visitor Center takes you through forests, meadows and marshlands to the creek. In the fall, you can see Kokanee salmon spawning in the creek - a truly unique event to witness!
Genoa Trail System
The Genoa Trail System includes two accessible hikes in the Nature Conservancy's River Ranch, along with a trail between the town of Genoa and David Walley's Hot Spring Resort. At the River Ranch, there is the East Brockliss Loop, a 3/4-mile long trail that is fairly flat with a natural surface and two boardwalks over water, and the West Fork Trail, a two-mile trail that is flat and wide. The 1.3-mile-long Genoa Vista Trail connects David Walley's Hot Spring Resort and the town of Genoa. There are also several other Nevada hot springs and hot springs resorts that are accessible.