Hiking Tom Cooke in Reno

Hike A Fall Classic

Hike a Fall Classic in Reno Tahoe

11.20.2024

Reno hit the jackpot with its well-planned urban trail system, including the Tom Cooke Trail adjacent to the Truckee River. Used by hikers and mountain bikers, the trail is also dog-friendly, and popular with Reno locals.

The trail is striking in fall, with golden tones streaming over the landscape, accentuated by the season’s low-lying sun.

Check out the trailhead map and go on a short loop hike (the Tom Cooke Steamboat Ditch Loop is roughly 4 miles all in). While this trail isn’t ADA accessible, nearby Mayberry Park has a paved path paralleling the river.

Between Reno and Carson City, Washoe Lake State Park could be the opening scene in an epic western film—with wild horses in meadows and a trifecta of mountain ranges (Sierra Nevada, Carson, Virginia) reflected on the lake. Sandy Beaches Park is a nice spot for a picnic or a dog-friendly waterside wander.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN RENO TAHOE

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View