Gallivant in Galena

Snowshoe Galena Creek Regional Park in Reno

Get your fill of winter thrills just a few miles from downtown Reno in Galena Creek Regional Park. The park is full of trails, but Jones Creek Loop makes an easy 1.7-mile route, set to the soundtrack of crunching snow. It’s perfect for novices, and for those seeking a quick adventure close to downtown Reno, which has emerged as a revamped and rapidly developing artisan haven of craft brew and gourmet restaurants.

Begin at the Jones Creek Trailhead and follow the trail heading east. Situated uniquely at the intersection of alpine forest and high desert landscape, sagebrush grows next to Jeffrey pines. A lot of locals enjoy this trail, even decorating the pine trees with festive ornaments during the holidays. The trail climbs up, following alongside quaint Jones Creek with white-barked aspens growing at its banks.

This trail intersects with the 9-mile Jones White Creek Loop, so make sure to follow signs closely and stay on the Jones Creek Loop Trail. After a mile, you’ll come to a small creek crossing and start heading downhill through wintry forest, with plenty of room to frolic along the way. Go ahead, gallivant in Galena!

Park at the USFS Jones Creek Trailhead in Galena Creek Regional Park, off Mt. Rose Hwy. To get to the USFS Jones Creek Trailhead drive 0.4 mile southwest, past the Galena Creek Visitor Center. Snowshoes can be rented at Galena Sport ($12 per day). Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View