Showing posts with label Lake Tahoe. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lake Tahoe. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

Cave Rock Trail — A Short Walk to Amazing Views that will Take Your Breath Away


Cave Rock Drive and Winding Way
*No fees at trailhead


Cave Rock State Park

Cave Rock Trailhead


Lake Tahoe is filled with endless beauty and Cave Rock, a 250-ft volcanic formation, is no exception.  The rock, located on the eastern shore is hard to miss on the way to South Lake Tahoe from Reno, as it is found right on the path of highway 50.  The cave has unique beauty, tunnels, and proximity to the shore, is easy to get to, and is a must to visit.
 
A 0.8-mile-walk with little elevation gain will earn you breathtaking views that people would be happy to hike much further distances for.  Luckily, this is one view that requires little to no effort making it enjoyable for all ages.  

Right from the start you'll be met with views of the lake and more and more views of the lake with rock formations and piers as you go further along.

Views are great at the base of Cave Rock,  but people that are looking for more adventure have the option of climbing to the top to access even more magical views.  There's an out-and-back trail to the top, with some spots that will allow you to step to the side for people to pass. 

My 6-year-old climbed to the top with little help.  Also, my two-year-old  got pretty far for his age.  Had I not intervened, I have no doubt he would've made it to the top.

This fun and unique spot is more than worth the effort to get to and is enjoyable year-round.


Notes:
-0.8 mile out and back (10-15 mins), 137 ft. elevation gain
-about six parking spaces at trailhead
-catch amazing views at sunset
-more parking to the side of the road just a little way up the hill away from trailhead 
-dog friendly, on leash, no trash or poop bags available
-path is wide
-Since there are lots of people that utilize the trail, I suggest the use a carrier for kids instead of a stroller
-this location would be epic for photo shoots. Next wedding I shoot is going to be here
-I always carry my hiking backpack or carrier, and portable potty and Liners when on a hike, just in case the kids get tired or need to go
-snacks and water are always a must for kids on hikes
-empowering for kids
-mostly exposed. sun protection would help, esp. in summer
-checking the weather before you go will help with planning what to wear. it can get windy
-room is limited at the top of the cave
-ideal for snow-shoeing in winter
-I slipped a couple of times on small loose rock.  I recommend appropriate footwear 
-For more of a challenge, you can park across the street at Cave Rock State Park boat landing, cross the street, and walk up to trailhead.  Parking lot on the right after passing tunnel.  
-Picnic tables, restrooms, sand play, snorkeling and swimming available at Cave Rock State Park next to highway 50

Reccomended Gear
-Sunscreen (after trying so many options, this is my family's favorite)
-Water Bottle (definitely a must in Reno's dry climate)
-Portable potty Liners (priceless gadget that makes any hike with kids a breeze)
-hiking backpack (great view for kids, storage, nap friendly, shade)
-carrier (more afordable, light weight, shade, storage for keys)

*As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.


Categorized under "Lake Tahoe," "Scenic Overlooks,"  and  "Family Friendly Hikes"

Photos
©Katherine Fung,
All Rights Reserved.

Monday, November 9, 2020

Take a Short & Scenic hike to a Beautiful Waterfall - Mt. Rose Summit Trail


24705 Mt Rose Hwy 
Reno, NV 89511


When I think about why I love living in Reno, Mt. Rose Summit Trail is one reason that's up there on the list.  It's a 11.8-mile loop trail that includes stunning views and enjoyment for every skill level.  

Will little to no effort and a fairly flat path (with exception to the beginning of the trail) winding through the woods, in about 2.5 miles, you will reach beautiful Galena Falls and a grand view of a meadow.  For the little amount of effort needed in getting to a beautiful waterfall, Mt. Rose Summit Trail has become popular and can get busy for this part of the hike.  

From the falls, the hike is said to get more and more difficult, with the last 1.5 miles being more on the most challenging side.  Regardless, many see the hike as rewarding and pleasant, with stunning views of Lake Tahoe Basin, Washoe Valley and Reno (AllTrails).

Notes:
-Best used May–October
-30 min from South Reno
-4.5–6 hrs round trip
-Elevation:10,778' ft. Altitude sickness can be a risk for some individuals, esp when going over 8,000 feet.  Here's an article with more information.
-The summit at top is always windy and hikers on AllTrails recommend windbreakers no matter what the season.
-Download the app AllTrails (free) for more reviews, directions, photos and navigation tools
-As always, check the weather and road conditions to plan accordingly.
-Don't forget sunblock. The higher you are, the more intense the sun is.  Dress in layers.
-Bring lots of water and snacks.  Picnic opportunities available throughout the hike.
-Going early on weekends in the summer and winter will help beat the crowds. Parking lots can fill up fast.
-During winter, lots of people like to sled and play with snow next to the parking lot. Slopes are awesome.
-Most shade is found at the beginning of hike. At the last part, a sprinkling of trees helps provide relief from the sun.
-In Mid to late August you can catch the great Monarch Butterfly migration
-Beautiful in the fall, and in the spring and summer with lots of wildlife and wildflowers
-People have found walking poles to be of benefit for the last part of the rocky hike and for the ascent
-there's a restroom that's open during certain parts of the year.  Porta Potties available.
-Dog and equestrian friendly
-For those looking for a beautiful flat hike nearby Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop trail is down the street to the left (you will see a parking lot).  Tahoe Meadows South Trailhead is just a min down from Tahoe Meadows and features more options for hikes. Here you will find another loop hike that leads to a boardwalk that is fun to hang around.
-The Mt. Rose area is popular in the winter for sledding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
-If hiking in the winter, bring snow gear and a map or make sure your phone is charged so that AllTrails can help you navigate.  The trails can easily be lost covered in snow.
-During longer hikes where bathrooms are not nearby, I like to bring my portable potty for my kids.

Reccomended Gear
-Sunscreen (after trying so many options, this is my family's favorite)
-Water Bottle (definitely a must in Reno's dry climate)
-Portable potty Liners (priceless gadget that makes any hike with kids a breeze)
-hiking backpack (great view for kids, storage, nap friendly, shade)
-carrier (more afordable, light weight, shade, storage for keys)

*As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

If you want to see an amazing video that does this trail justice, check out this video made by Supai Adventures.  You can even run into butterflies!!!



Right Next to Mt. Rose Parking Lot

Categorized under "Family Friendly Hikes