Showing posts with label nature. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nature. Show all posts

Monday, November 11, 2019

Galena Creek Regoinal Park- One of Reno's Hidden Gems, The park that has it all.

Catch the gorgeous sunrise
Mt. Rose Highway


South Entrance, North Entrance - 18250, 18350 Mt Rose Hwy, Reno, NV 89511

Directions to Jones Creek Loop
Directions to Galena Creek Short Loop
Reviews on Yelp

Galena Creek Regional Park is the kind of park that people would be happy to drive long distances to get to. It's beautiful year-round with lots to see and do.


Lucky for me, it's practically in my backyard (10 min from South Reno up toward Mt. Rose)...an enchanted forest with unbelievable views, tranquility, sounds of nature at its best, picnic areas w/ water pump stations in the summer, trails, BBQ grills, dog poop bags, well marked trails, family friendly trails, dog friendly trails, biking/horse trails/difficult trails, visitor center, tall beautiful pine trees, soothing creeks, Marilyn's fishing pond, camp fires and stories in the summer, prime sledding hills in the winter, snowshoeing, cross country skiing... you name it.  

About four years ago, when I first moved here, I was shocked to have found such a beautiful park so close by and until now, I still frequent it with my family.

My kids (3,5,1 yrs, old) love the GALENA CREEK NATURE TRAIL-  (0.9 mile loop, 164 ft. elevation gain).  You can find the trailhead past the entrance of the park, past the sign for park hours. Follow the paved road to the end, past the BBQ grills, to the small parking lot. The trail is short and sweet, with lots of fun paths to follow. 

JONES LOOP (1.5 miles, 259 ft. elevation gain), is also a favorite.  You can find the trailhead before the main park entrance (look for a sign for trailhead) then turn right into the parking lot.  There's a little climb in the beginning, but very enjoyable for the whole family.  You can complete the loop or branch out to more difficult trails (JONES WHITES CREEK LOOP, 10 miles, 2,450ft. elevation gain). Just from doing the first 1/4 mile of Jones Whites, you will come across beautiful views. This trail also seems to be popular with mountain bikers from all the tracks that I saw. 


A short distance from the entrance, there are many picnic stations, including the Bearmat group picnic area that you can reserve for parties and gatherings (10 tables with huge BBQ grill).  There is also a restroom close by, but the paved path is up a little hill. 


Galena fish hatchery is a place within the park where you can fish and have special events such as weddings. Click HERE for directions.

Galena Creek Park is the perfect park for the perfect getaway, especially if you don't have time to plan long trips to the great outdoors.  

If you download the app ALLTRAILS for hiking, you can get more information, directions, read reviews, and track where you're at on the trail (given you have reception).

Recommended 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 for kids, storage, nap-friendly, shade)
-carrier (more affordable, lightweight, shade, storage for keys)

*As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.  Your support is always appreciated and helps support my website.


a little ways from Jones Whites trailhead
Bearmat Picnic Area found in parking lot. By reservation only.
Bearmat Picnic Area Restroom

All Pictures Below- Galena Creek Short Loop