Mount Rose is Washoe County's highest mountain within the Carson Range, ranking 37th among the most prominent mountains in the state. The hike begins at 8,700 feet above sea level, with Mount Rose's summit at 10,778 feet. This extinct volcano is located in the Mount Rose Wilderness in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest between Reno and Lake Tahoe. The stunning 10.6-mile hike to Mount Rose's summit takes hikers past beautiful waterfalls and through alpine forests en route to the top and is highly touted as a fun family outing suitable for children and well-behaved pets.
Hikers are immediately rewarded with gorgeous panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and Tahoe Meadows. The early part of the hike is a smooth trail that provides a leisurely stroll to the lush meadow at Mount Rose's base.
The first 2.5 miles of the hike are fairly level. After this, hikers pass a gorgeous waterfall signaling the start of the more difficult part of the hike up the mountain itself.
Mount Rose's lush meadow at its base is nourished by a waterfall from Galena Creek.
There are a few shady spots throughout the hike; however, there is also much sun, so hikers should take and reapply sunscreen often. The trail is home to many wildflowers and indigenous animals like chipmunks that are often seen scurrying along.
Views from the trail are fantastic and nearly unlimited. Hikers can see Lake Tahoe, Reno, Virginia City, and Washoe Lake. Many hiking enthusiasts have said this is the best view in the entire state.
Hikers can climb Mount Rose year round, provided the roads are open. During the winter, as would be expected, the hike takes longer depending upon the amount of snow. Some years there is little snow until December, while in others, such as 2006, there was still snow on the ground in July.
The trail is open year round with peak season in the late spring/early summer; however, it is open year round and accessible depending upon weather conditions. As this is a long hike so be sure to take water, snacks, sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen.
Hikers pass numerous beautiful waterfalls along the 10 1/2-mile hike. Run off is courtesy of melting snow and serves to nourish the meadow below and assorted flora within the area.
Atop the summit, hikers have a 360-degree view for miles, from Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the south to the Truckee Meadows to the north at an elevation of 10,776 feet. The trailhead elevation is 8,900 feet, and hikers who make the summit will have gained a whopping 1,876 feet in elevation, nearly two miles above sea level.
The stunning views of Lake Tahoe are to die for.
Periodic signs provide hikers with information about the mountain and the area, as well as point out various flora and fauna indigenous to the area.
One of the many stunning waterfalls along the Mount Rose trail.
As gorgeous as a painting, another of the many breathtaking waterfalls along the Mount Rose hiking trail.
Getting to Mount Rose isn't too difficult. From Reno, take 395 South to the Mount Rose Highway (431). The trailhead is about 20 minutes further. From Carson City, take 395 North to 431.
Granted, there are several beautiful hikes in Nevada, yet Mount Rose remains consistently atop the lists of hiking enthusiasts. Its adjoining campground near the Mount Rose Summit parking area has picnic tables and restrooms for day picnics or longer stays. What is your favorite Nevada hiking spot? Please comment below.
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