Witness A Millionaire's Creation During the Comstock Load Mining Boom and Enjoy Beautiful Grounds at Bowers Mansion Regional Park

4005 Bowers Mansion Rd

New Washoe City, NV 89704

775-849-0201

Website

Pavilion Reservations

Pool Info.

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Upcoming Event: Bowers Bluegrass Festival (August 24-27, 2023)

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Nestled among the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains is Bowers Mansion Regional Park, only 15 minutes away from South Reno on the way to Carson City. For 100+ years, people have been visiting this park for its scenic views, swimming pool, mansion, beautiful grounds, history, events, outdoor recreational activities, and more. *Experience a pleasant picnic under towering shade trees *Swim in a secluded pool in the middle of nature *Rent out one of the pavilions for life's special occasions *Take in a piece of history through educational plaques and tours in the most elegant building of its time *Let the children run wild and free while exploring, swinging, sliding, and climbing at the playground I'm so thankful to have such a special and beautiful park nearby, a place that has served and continues to be the perfect spot to learn, have fun, grow, live life to the fullest, and create precious moments.

Friends, can you imagine spending time in a place that once belonged to a millionaire? It honestly feels like a dream. Am I crazy to feel this lucky? This spot is stunning, and it holds so many memories. It’s where my kids learned to ride their bikes. It will always be a special place for us.

2020 hours of operation.  Opening + closing dates are around the same time every year.

Bower's Mansion Tours

Take a trip back in history and walk in the shoes of past millionaires Eilley & Sandy Bowers with a guided tour offered seasonally, usually from Memorial Day through Nevada Day. 

I have yet to take it, but from what I've researched, it's popular and led by people who tell the story of the mansion in an entertaining manner (such as the person in the walk-through video tour below).

The park usually hosts special events like Programs on the Porch (free live music), a Civil War event, & more.

Notes

-49-acre park  

-No pets allowed due to historical significance, except for service animals  

-Plenty of day-use picnic tables with BBQ grills available on a first-come, first-served basis

-Two pavilions, Comstock Picnic Pavilion and Washoe Picnic Pavilion, are located at each end of the park, ideal for special events like weddings. Horseshoe pits and volleyball courts are next to each pavilion

-Two partially shaded play structures are situated at each end of the park

-Plenty of grassy areas available 

-A trail behind the mansion leads to stunning views of Washoe Lake and the Bower family cemetery, accessible via a short dirt trail with stairs (less than 5 minutes)  

-The swimming pool keeps a lane open for lap swimmers, and there’s a new gated splash pad for toddlers with easy entry ladders and a hydraulic lift 

-The park features many trees that change color in the fall, making it an amazing spot for photos  

-Great shade during summer

-Davis Creek Regional Park is just a couple of minutes away, offering family-friendly trails (ranging from easy to difficult), camping grounds, picnic areas, and fishing spots when water levels permit 

-I love taking my kids to the Chocolate Nugget Factory for ice cream sundaes and treats after a fun-filled day, only about 5 minutes down the street

-The park is surrounded by farmlands, making it easy to drive around Washoe Lake and spot various farm animals

-Flushable toilets available 

-Huge parking lots are located on each side of the park

 

Photography 

©Katherine Fung,

All rights reserved.

***Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own. 

Categorized under "Parks and Playgrounds, Picnic Spots & Birthday/Event Venues"

Arrowcreek Park- A Small Great Park with Unique Play Structures, Great Views, and Access to Lower Thomas Creek Trail

2950 Arrowcreek Parkway

Reno, NV 89511

Park Ranger Office: (775) 849-2511

Washoe County Parks Facebook

A Complete Directory of all Parks in Reno

Arrowcreek Park is a hidden gem tucked away across the street from Hunsberger Elementary School, sitting at around 5,300 feet in elevation & offers stunning mountain views and a trail system that provides a gateway into the surrounding foothills. While it may not be the largest park in town, it truly delivers with fantastic play structures, a short & scenic hiking loop, and a delightful secluded park vibe.

Arrowcreek Park isn’t widely known, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a quieter park.  As one of the newer parks in the area, it features modern play equipment suitable for all ages, including both large and small play structures, bouncy seats, a climbing structure, a merry go round, and imaginative play features.

From the grassy area, you can soak in gorgeous views of aspens lining Lower Thomas Creek & even Reno in the distance.  The hilly terrain adds a fun twist compared to the usual flat grassy spaces found at most parks, making it perfect for keeping an eye on the kids as they play below.

Arrowcreek Park is beautifully maintained year round.  I recommend checking it out in the fall for breathtaking foliage, in spring when the wildflowers bloom, or in winter when the surrounding mountains are covered in snow.

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the area, my family often hikes a portion of the Lower Thomas Creek trail. We make our way alongside the creek to two large round containers (you can’t miss them) and then take a left on the flat dirt road back to the park. After about five minutes down, you’ll see the pavilion on your left and can find your way back to the park.

The trail is tranquil, with the sound of the creek running alongside it.  It’s a short yet sweet trail that we love returning to time and time again.

Click to Enlarge. The Lower Thomas Creek loop takes about 15-25 minutes. Start at Arrowcreek Park and follow the dotted line to the two white circles on the map, then turn left onto the dirt road back to the park.

Winter at Arrowcreek Park

If you're looking for a longer trek, check out the full Lower Thomas Creek Trail, a 4.7-mile out-and-back trail best used from March until October (snow accumulation in the winter can make hiking difficult).

Lower Thomas Creek Out and Back Trail

Notes

-11 acres

-AccuWeather for hourly weather (temperature, wind, sun intensity, and precipitation) 

- In early spring, the trail can be covered in snow, leading to some slippery spots. In late spring, snowmelt can make the trail muddy.

-No restrooms available at the park

-BBQ & pavilion available on a first come, first served basis

-A few picnic tables and benches are spread throughout the park.

-Enjoy great views of the mountains.

-The park is great for photography, especially in the fall and spring (wildflowers).

-Download the AllTrails app to access more information, reviews, pictures, and directions for Lower Thomas Creek Trail. You can track yourself on their trail maps, reducing the risk of getting lost. Trail access is at the top of the grassy area of the park.  Look for the sign behind a bush.  It's not obvious.

-Horseback riding friendly.  Equestrian parking available.

-I like to bring my portable travel potty and liners everywhere I go, especially to parks without restrooms, so the kids can play without having to leave to find a toilet.

-Visit early in the morning or at sunset during hot summers.

***Information subject to change. All opinion are my own.***

Photography

© Katherine Fung

All rights reserved.

Categorized under Parks and Playgrounds & Family Friendly Hikes

Phillip Annie Callahan Park- A Close Getaway Within Arms Reach

15960 Callahan Road

Reno, NV 89511

Park Ranger Office: 

(775) 849-2511

Website

Galena Creek Tail Map

Phillip Annie Callahan Park is a hidden gem tucked away in an inconspicuous neighborhood you'd only know about if you lived in the vacinity or you were in the area for a hike, in a serene forest next to Mt. Rose Highway. 

One year, I stumbled upon this park on Google while searching for family-friendly places to enjoy during the summer in Reno.  If you know anything about an average Reno summer day, you'll know how it could really get uncomfortably hot.  Having places like Callahan Park are essential to enjoying summers in Reno.  

It's charm, location, and family friendly factor are the reasons it lands itself among my top favorite parks in all of Reno.  Anyone with children & any lover of the outdoors will be thrilled to know of is existence.  Over the years I’ve been visiting, it’s always been a low-key and peaceful retreat, and I'm so happy to share it with you all here on my blog. 

The main reason I think people miss this gem is likely due to the fact that Galena Regional Park is so close by, and its not so obvious location.  If you've been following me for a while, you'll know that Galena Creek Regional Park ranks among one of my all time favorite parks for the views, trails, events, and serenity it has to offer.  Just 5 minuets up the highway from Callahan Park, the park includes a visitor's center, wedding venue, Marilyn's fishing pond, tons of picnic areas, trails for all levels, views, and so much more.  To learn more about this park, visit my post about it HERE.

Now, back to Phillip Annie Callahan Park.  Although it’s on the smaller side, the park is a unique alternative to your average park. It features all the things you love about an ideal park, but with the added bonus of a forest location.  

Enjoy a pavilion, limited paved pathways, two play structures, grassy areas, a nature tail, a handful of picnic tables, and my favorite feature - a beautiful creek that's so nice to listen to and watch the kids splash around in the summer.  

For trail lovers, take the short nature trail loop or venture out 2.5 miles further up toward Mt. Rose Highway on Galena Creek Trail (4.7 mi. loop, not to be confused with Galena Creek Nature Trail in Galena Creek Regional Park) for a longer & more challenging adventure.  You'll be happy to know that both trails follow alongside Galena Creek. 

To access the short loop, head past the end of the paved path into the dirt area and towards the forest. Keep going until you find a bridge. Walk past it and loop back to Callahan Park. The trail ends at the parking lot for the Galena Creek Trail, which is just a short 1-2 minuet walk along the main road from Callahan Park. 

This charming park is a go-to for summer fun, hiking, picnicking, small gatherings, winter snowshoeing adventures and also features beautiful colors in the fall. 

Access Galena Creek Trail from the park. 4.7 mile Out and Back. 774 ft. elevation gain.

History 

Phillip and Annie Callahan Park is a hidden gem honoring the Callahan family who donated 25 acres for its creation. The park’s history ties back to Nevada’s early settlement days during the Comstock Lode boom in nearby Virginia City.

Matthew Callahan arrived from England in 1863 and established a brickyard that supplied materials for several important local structures. As demand for brick declined, the family transitioned into dairy farming in the Galena area, growing a variety of crops and fruit.

His son Phil Callahan later helped establish a school in Galena using materials from their own land. The historic Galena Creek Schoolhouse now part of the park and listed on the National Register of Historic Places once served as the home of Nevada poet Joanne de Longchamps.

Notes

- Enjoy beautiful golden foliage in the fall

& ample shade in the summer

- play structures provide shade during specific times of the day depending on the season

-enjoy wildlife & wildflowers in spring/summer

-Ideal for picnics and photo shoots

-The downward slope pathway next to the parking lot is a favorite spot for kids to ride their plasma cars & bikes

-Horse and dog-friendly, with poop bags available at the parking lot

-Mountain biking paths and horseshoe pits available

-The pavilion includes a BBQ pit and is available on a first come first served basis

-Water fountain and benches available throughout the park

-While there are no restrooms at the park, you can find a porta potty at the Galena Creek Trailhead, just a two minute walk toward Mt. Rose Highway. 

-The gently sloped paved pathway in the park was a hit with my kids when they were learning how to ride their bikes. If they ever felt like they were losing control, they just safely veered into the grassy area. Fun times...

***Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own.***

Photography

© Katherine Fung,

All rights reserved.

 

Categorized under Parks and Playgrounds, Family Friendly Hiking and Picnic Spots

El Dorado Orchards - Beat the Crowds, Have a Picnic, and Take A Scenic Train Ride

2881 North Canyon Rd.
Camino, CA 95709

INSTAGRAM

More Helpful Links

*Apple Hill Growers Association Website

*Apple Hill's 2025 Visitor's Guide

*Apple Hill's U-Pick Guide

*Official Apple Hill Instagram - for the latest updates and information

One fall,  I was soaking up those cozy autumn vibes, admiring the stunning scenery around me while searching for fun fall activities in Reno. Of course, Google led me straight to what I was looking for.

One of the top suggestions for nearby fall activities was Apple Hill, a collection of 50+ farms nestled in Placerville, CA, offering all types of fall magic from apple picking, to apple milkshake flights and everything you could want and more from a fall experience.  Now this sounded like a type of Disneyland to me - everything I could want for a perfect day out.  I’m a sucker for beautiful views, road trips, farms, random adventures, and all things apple related, so I knew this trip would be an instant win.

As a mom of three, I always like to plan ahead to ensure outings go as smoothly as possible (despite the inherent unpredictablility of parenthood, lol).  I looked up which farms are best for kids, and of course, El Dorado Orchards popped up on Google as a must on that list, offering face painting, delicious apple treats, a craft fair, and a scenic train ride around a pond. 

This farm was the perfect introduction to Apple Hill. I mean... it had a whimsical train that looped around a beautiful pond that was located on a beautiful farm that had all the things. Trains alone are fantastic, but pair them with a view around a pond featuring some fall foliage, and it becomes something else. The ride may not have been as long as I’d hoped, but I still love it and make an effort to return every season because it’s just that special.

Of course, I went all out on my first visit and ended up having the kids get their faces painted, snagged some hot dog meals, enjoyed a 2nd train ride, and brought some apple goods home with me.  If you're on a budget or just love bringing your own food & drinks, you can easily customize your visit to fit your wants and needs.

This charming little farm is tucked away next to the busier and more well known BOA Vista and High Hill Ranch, making it a perfect escape from the crowds.  But feel free to hit them up on the same visit if you're feeling bold and looking to milk Apple Hill of all its magic.

If you’re looking for a place to picnic, relax, shop, enjoy some apple goodies, and get a little dose of whimsy, I can’t recommend a visit El Dorado Orchards enough.

Notes
-Family owned and operated
-Hot dogs and hot sandwiches available for $6-$11
-Train rides were $5/person on my visit
-Small in size but packs a punch with its offerings - craft fair, hot lunch, apple treats, face painting, and train rides available

-The scenery alone keeps me coming back for more 
-They offer pies, brownies, caramel apples, cookies, cider, apple cider milkshakes, and jams, but no donuts.  Head to BOA Vista Orchards just a minute up the road for an awesome variety to choose from.
-Plenty of tables and benches on grassy areas with tall trees providing shade, perfect for picnics
-Restrooms available
-Plenty of parking on site

***Information subject to change.  All opionions are my own. 

Photography

© Katherine Fung,

All Rights Reserved.

Categorized under Seasonal/Holidays ---> Apple Hill Grower's Association

Crystal Peak Park in Verdi: A Hidden Gem Near Reno

561 Crystal Park Road

Verdi, NV 89439

Park Ranger Office: 

(775) 828-6612

Website 
Trail Map

Fishing Permits

Tahoe Pyramid Trail Guide

One of the things I love most about living in Reno is how quickly you can escape into breathtaking natural beauty, and Crystal Peak Park is the perfect example. Just 10 miles west of Reno along I-80 toward Donner Pass, and sitting at around 4,885 feet, this beautiful park is tucked between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Truckee River. Spend the day fishing along the river, exploring the nature trail, enjoying a picnic, or discovering the area's fascinating history. You can even access the Tahoe-Pyramid bike Trail from the park if you're looking to extend your adventure and explore more of the scenic Truckee River corridor, and drive up Crystal Peak for for a rockhounding journey. And when you've worked up an appetite, head into Verdi for a bite at one of the nearby local gems, like Sasquatch Tavern & Grill, Chop 40, or Outlaw Coffee Cafe. These spots make the perfect ending to a day spent exploring the great outdoors.

What Makes This Park Special

-Shade from beautiful, tall trees

-A scenic 0.5-mile nature trail that loops alongside the Truckee River

-Two fishing ponds (stocked with Lahontan Cutthroat Trout)

-Boulders for climbing adventures

-Grassy picnic areas with BBQ facilities

-Restrooms 

-Access to Tahoe-Pyramid Trail (114 miles long. Spans from Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake)

-Interpretive signs with cool facts about the area

-Nearby trails, perfect for hikers and cyclists

From 1923 to 1938, Crystal Peak Park in Verdi was home to the Verdi Glen Resort, a beloved stop for commuters back in the day. Today, you can still explore remnants of that history, including pieces of the Verdi Lumber Company, which started operations here way back in 1860. The sawmill played a major role in helping build Virginia City and the railroad tracks that connected the region.

Crystal Peak Park is also a must visit for anyone with a love for rockhounding. The park, named after the majestic peak towering behind it, is a haven for quartz hunters. If you're ready to dig in, bring a shovel as there are quartz deposits waiting to be uncovered. For the adventurous, the peak itself is about 11 miles up a one way dirt road with some incredible scenic pull over spots to soak in the views.

My attempt to reach the peak in a minivan was... a bit of an adventure. The last three miles are full of deep ruts and uneven terrain, so if you're planning to tackle this route, an off roading vehicle or SUV is the way to go. While I didn't make it to the top, the drive was still full of breathtaking views and the thrill of the journey (& uncertainty, LOL).

If you’re lucky enough to reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. 

The combination of rich history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities makes Crystal Peak a true gem just a short distance from Reno. 

NOTES

-Paved parking lot with easy access to the main trailhead

-Group areas available on a first-come, first-served basis.  No reservations needed.

-Ideal for family outings, nature lovers, and history buffs alike

-Check the weather ahead of time and plan accordingly

-stay hydrated and bring sun protection

-as always, have fun & leave no trace

***All opinions are my own.  Information subject to change.***

Photography

© Katherine Fung,

All rights reserved.

Categorized under "Family Friendly Hikes, Picnic Spots, Parks and Playgrounds"