Reno, NV 89511
Park Ranger Office: (775) 828-6612
Pavilion Reservations (775) 823-6501
Pavilion Reservations (775) 823-6501
Bartley Ranch occupies a cherished spot among my favorite parks in Reno. Its Western ambiance, unique beauty, and array of amenities, along with special events, firmly establish it as a top contender on my all-time favorite list.
This park offers a variety of spaces, ideal for diverse activities such as picnics, leisurely strolls, wildlife observation, pet walking, and the hosting of special events like parties, concerts, weddings, or even providing an immersive experience of stepping back in time.
The park is decorated with old vintage tractors and wooden shacks, evoking a sense of what life was like in bygone days. The presence of horse tracks along the trails enhances the historical experience.
The park features a beautiful Western Heritage Interpretive Center, a vintage Huffaker School, and an amphitheater available for rental for special occasions. Informative pamphlets in front of the interpretive center provide details about the park's flora, fauna, and history.
Approaching from the south, a scenic lookout presents breathtaking views before descending into the ranch. From this vantage point, one can appreciate a white picket fence shaped like Nevada, observe runners traversing the slopes, witness dog walkers, and see individuals enjoying the scenery from benches.
Within a short 30 minutes, I encountered a wide variety of wildlife and traversed various terrains during a short walk. A charming nature trail, complete with a quaint bridge, led to a wooden walkway against picturesque mountainous hills, followed by a zigzagging trail looping back to the ranch.
Whether participating in a special event, embarking on a scenic stroll, observing wildlife, taking in scenic views, walking your furry friends, celebrating a special occasion, or enjoying a picnic, Bartley Ranch Park is sure to please. It's a park that consistently draws me back for more, and I'm delighted to share this experience with all of you.
Notes
*Plenty of parking available
*Arrive early for special events as parking fills up fast
*Bartley Ranch Park is a popular place for photo sessions
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)
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Bartley Ranch in Fall
Park at Audrey Harris Park for lookout.
Categorized under "Parks and Playgrounds, Family Friendly Hiking and Picnic Spots"
Photography
©Katherine Fung,
All rights reserved.
I took my little ones here to get some fresh air and I fell in love right away with the feel of the park. Tall trees, ramps, interpretive signs, a little visitor center, American Robins, picnic tables, and nature sounds were what welcomed me.
Upon Entering, I noticed a NO DOGS ALLOWED sign. It seems that the city aims for wildlife to be uninterrupted so as to allow an ideal habitat for wildlife to thrive. If I were to take a field trip to this area as a kid, I would be so excited to learn about nature.
The beginning of the trail was very inviting, with it's narrow, tree-lined entrance and sounds of birds nearby. Up on the observation deck, I could spot three nests.
Shade is a big plus for me and my family as it provides relief from the blazing sun during the summer. You will find many shaded areas throughout the trail. As you may already know, because of Reno's higher elevation(4,506ft), the sun is much more intense. Sunblock is always good for protection in any case.
There was no problem with getting around with my stroller, but I could imagine that during a rainy and wet day, conditions may not be favorable, as the trail would be too muddy to get around.
Toward the end of the trail (after the last bush tunnel), there are long tree logs laid out to create a bridge to get to the other side. It's not completely flat, so crossing with a stroller/wheelchair may pose a problem. Turning back and going the way you came is what I'd suggest. Anyway, the path after crossing the log bridge is only a few min back to the same path you took to get to the bush tunnel. Note that there's a fork at the end before the bush tunnel. The path with a tire and stick leads to a dead end. Take the fork to the right.
I love that within the 0.8-mile looped trail, you get to experience all sorts of different areas-the the river, open areas, tree/bush tunnel areas, and the picnic study area located at the entrance.
Me and my little ones had a blast walking the trail, reading the educational signs, checking out the river, checking out wildlife, listening to the train nearby, and snacking near the river. I'm so thankful for this precious area that has been preserved.
As others have suggested, visiting the park during busy day times is ideal, as it is well-lit, safest, and easy to get around. I have not yet visited during fall and would imagine that it would be even more stunning to see the trees change colors in such a sweet spot.
Notes:
-Restrooms and water fountain available during business hours.
-benches laid out throughout the trail. You can find two benches in front of the river.
-To get to the deck in front of the river,(facing the park)take take the path all the way to the left. This path connects to the main path.
-Bring some chairs or a blanket to enjoy a picnic or just relax on the deck in front of the river or anywhere else in the area