Geiger Lookout Wayside Park- A Nice Stop with Great Views on the way to and from Virginia City

1990 Geiger Grade Rd. 

Reno, NV, 89521

Old Geiger Grade OHV Trail

Virginia City Website | Instagram

Geiger Lookout is a favorite spot for sunset lovers and curious travelers making their way to and from Virginia City. You’ll find this gem just a bit up the winding road (built in 1862 to haul silver from the Comstock Lode) from the Reno roundabout, with a turnout offering about 11 parking spaces.

One of the coolest things about Reno is how diverse it is, with its river, farmlands, forests, and Tahoe & Old West vibes all within a short drive of one another. At Geiger Lookout, you’ll be treated to rock lined paths, muted nature colors, and vibrant red mineral mountains, creating a truly unique experience.

With multiple lookout points, you’ll soak in sweeping views of Mt. Rose, the Sierra Mountains, and Downtown Reno. Sitting at about 1,000 feet above the Truckee Meadows, you’ll feel like you're on top of the world being surrounded by stunning scenery.  The park also features the remnants of 1938 barbecues, wells, and even a “love seat,” bringing visitors back in time and sparking curiosity about its history.

Just a quick 15-minute drive up a scenic, winding road will lead you to Virginia City, a charming town soaking in rich mining history and that classic “old west” feel everyone goes nuts for (or is that just me?).  Can you believe that it once inhabited about 25,000 residents at its peak during the 19th century mining bonanza?  That population has since dwindled down drastically to 690 in 2026 (source).  If time machines really existed, Virginia City in its heyday would be among the top places I'd travel back to.

Throughout the year, Virginia City comes alive with annual events, parades, and tours, making it a hotspot for tourists.  With ghost tours, saloon crawls, restaurants, unique boutiques, holiday happenings, tons of historical buildings, and even sleepovers, there’s no shortage of exciting experiences waiting for you in the "Wild Wild West."

Together, Geiger Grade Lookout and Virginia City offer the perfect day trip.  I can't tell you how many times I've found myself wandering around this area.  Sometimes I'll photograph random scenes and places on the way to VC and at VC itself, and sometimes I'll just come for lunch or chat with a VC local (they're always so kind and welcoming).  And at the end of every single trip, I sit back and think about how lucky I am to be living next to a true "Frontier Land (sorry Disney, VC takes the cake)."

Whether I'm soaking in the sunset from the lookout, wandering the streets of Virginia City, or having a showdown with bad guys on C street at noon, I always leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and history that surrounds Reno.

Fun Facts: Geiger Grade was once a crucial route for miners traveling between Reno and Virginia City during the Comstock Lode boom.  

Virginia City still preserves many buildings from this era, some over 150 years old.  Check out the stunning Mackay Mansion, the oldest building in VC (1860). Tours available. WEBSITE

Notes 
-A plaque at the stone stairs commemorates Dr. Davison M. Geiger, a local physician who helped finance the original Geiger Grade Road. The stairs lead to the lookout and a cozy “love seat” where you can relax and take in the views.
-The park covers approximately 2 acres.
-Partial shade is available under the trees.
-There are no functional restrooms on site.
-It can get super windy at higher elevations.  Stay on top of hourly weather and dress accordingly 

Categorized under "Parks and Playgrounds" & "Scenic Overlooks"

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

Photography 

©Katherine Fung

All Rights Reserved

Take a Short and Scenic Hike to a Stunning Waterfall on Mt. Rose Summit Trail

24705 Mt Rose Hwy 

Reno, NV 89511

(about 30 mins. from Reno)

Trail map to Galena Falls from Mt. Rose Summit Trailhead on Komoot. 

Trail Overview

Best used: May through October

Elevation Gain: 323 ft. 

Distance: 2.5 miles

Duration: 1 hrs. 24 mins.

Start Elevation: 9,000 ft.

Friends, it’s absolutely crazy how much beauty you can find right here in our region. If you’re a lover of the outdoors, chances are you’ll fall in love with Reno because it serves as the perfect gateway to adventure. With endless forests to explore, iconic Lake Tahoe just around the corner, and countless natural wonders nearby, it’s easy to see why this area inspires so much awe and appreciation for nature.

A little ways up Mt. Rose Highway is the Mt. Rose Summit Trail, which is easy to get to, easy to navigate, and comes with a beautiful waterfall only 2.5 miles into the trail.  I've heard many great things about the full 11.8 mile loop to the summit, but many visit soley to see the waterfall.  Based on what I’ve read from other hikers, the trail becomes more challenging beyond the waterfall, with the final 1.5 miles to the summit being the toughest climb. Even so, many hikers say the extra effort is well worth it for the incredible views overlooking the Lake Tahoe Basin, Washoe Valley, and Reno.

Aside from a short climb at the beginning of Mt. Rose Summit Trail, you’ll wind through the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest forest and reach the beautiful Galena Falls. The surrounding meadow next to the falls adds an extra touch of beauty that makes this area feel even more magical. Because the waterfall is so rewarding for the amount of effort it takes to reach, this section can get busy. 

As you make your way up the mountain and begin to witness the beauty that surrounds, take a moment to fill your lungs with that glorious alpine air and your heart with a little awe and appreciation for the existence of the great outdoors.  

NOTES
-The beginning of the trail offers plenty of shade as you make your way toward Galena Falls. The path is mostly flat aside from the initial climb.

-Restrooms are available seasonally at the trailhead parking lot.
-If traveling to the summit, pack a windbreaker no matter the season. 

-Higher elevations mean stronger sun exposure, sun protection, plenty of water, and snacks are highly recommended. 

-Hiking poles can be helpful for the rockier sections and steeper climbs to the summit.
-Summer weekends can get crowded, so arrive early or visit on a weekday for easier parking. During winter, the area near the parking lot becomes a popular spot for snow play and sledding. In late summer, you may even catch the beautiful Monarch butterfly migration. Catch colors in the fall and wildflowers in the spring/summer.

-Winter Hiking: Snowshoeing and cross country skiing are popular activities here in the winter.  Proper gear is essential. Be sure to check the weather in advance and dress appropriately. Serious winter hikers like to use an app to help keep them on track, especially when it allows them access to trail info. even without reception.

Nearby 

*Tahoe Meadows: If you’re looking for a lovely flat hike nearby, check out the Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop trail just down the road to the left (you can't miss the parking lot). The Tahoe Meadows South Trailhead is just a minute away from the lot on the main road.  During summer, the parking lot closer to the trailhead opens up to the public. 

*Ophir Creek Trail - Just drive a little ways down Mt. Rose Highway (less than a min.) to the area with the parked cars to enjoy a beautiful boardwalk that lines the meadow creeks.

Winter Fun Next to Mt. Rose Summit Trailhead Parking Lot

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

Photography

© Katherine Fung,

All rights reserved.

Categorized under "Family Friendly Hikes" 

Brown’s Creek Loop Trail Reno: Hiking Guide, Views & What to Expect

3584-3694 Joy Lake Road

Reno, NV 89511

AllTrails Map

Brown's Creek Snapshot

If you’re looking for a beautiful outdoor escape near Reno, Brown's Creek Trail is the place to be. This scenic hike features stunning views, vibrant wildflowers, diverse terrain, and the soothing sounds of the creek. It’s perfect for families and anyone who loves nature.  A rewarding adventure that showcases the beauty of our area.

Level: Moderate

Trail Length: 4.8 mi. 

Elevation gain: 1,000 ft. 

Estimated time: 2hr 25mins. 

I'm always on the lookout for good hikes in Reno that are beautiful, come with shade, views, changes in elevation, and water features. Brown's Creek Trail, located in south Reno, in the Galena area, just off Mt. Rose Highway, checked all the boxes.

Since my kids were getting more skilled and interested in hitting the trails, I decided to push our limits with a longer hike. Usually, we stick to 2-mile trails, so tackling 4.8 miles felt like a bit of a stretch with a 5, 6, and 1-year-old in tow. But if there's one thing I've learned in life, it's that we humans are capable of so much more than we think, and pushing ourselves outside our comfort zones and discovering new places almost always comes with a pretty big payoff.

The first part of the trail, before reaching the start of the loop, weaves through the woods with a gentle uphill slope over about a mile.  The first fork features a beautiful vista worth checking out on a little detour. Here, just a couple of minutes from the main trail, you’ll find a bench, breathtaking views, and an educational sign about Sundown Town, a short lived Old West themed family attraction that once stood nearby. The second fork marks the beginning of the loop, not far from the Vista. Take the left side if you want the easier route, as you’ll descend the steeper section rather than climb it.

Along the trail you'll come across three small bridges that cross the creek.  We took a break at the first bridge so the kids could dip their toes in the water and have some fun. It was a nice stop to for cooling down with plenty of shade provided by nearby trees. After crossing the second bridge, you'll find the third fork. We took a wrong turn at this fork, heading straight into the “National Forest” (the loop sign was a bit farther up and faced the wrong way) resulting in an extra 1.5 miles tagged onto our original route. We retraced our steps back to the sign, and, instead of going straight, made sure to head upward and to the right to get back on course. After the third fork, we crossed the final bridge and made our way back to the parking lot.

In total, we covered about 8.5 miles. It was such an empowering and rewarding journey. My family and I met plenty of friendly dogs, admired stunning wildflowers, encountered many kind people along the way, and leveled up our hiking game a bit.  The best part was being able to experience this adventure & complete wilderness without having to leave the city. 

Wandering through the Galena forest, crossing tranquil Brown's Creek, distracting the kids with tons of snacks & being their cheerleader, and getting over a hiccup with the family was incredibly fun, educational, and refreshing. 

I can't recommend this hike enough.

Notes

-It's super helpful to familiarize yourself with trail maps/apps that include navigation features that help keep you on track

-Dogs, horses, and cyclists are allowed on the trail 

-Enter the Galena Estates to find the trail entrance parking lot on the left side of Joy Lake Road.  

-Trailhead is located across the street

-Bring plenty of water, sun protection

-If hiking with kids, pack lots of snacks. 

-There’s plenty of shade throughout the hike, but there are also lots of exposed areas.  

-Have your phone handy for emergencies.  

-Alcohol pads and band-aids for unexpected scrapes

-Good footwear highly recommended  

-hiking poles may come in handy for those looking for more stability

-lots of vegetation, lizards, and insects to discover and enjoy

 Pick right side for more of a challenge to go up steep left side at end of loop. Left side to go down steeper side.

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

Photography 

© Katherine Fung,

All rights reserved.

Categorized Under Family Friendly Hikes & Scenic Overlooks

Oxbow Nature Study Area Reno: A Peaceful Escape Along the Truckee River

3100 Dickerson Road

Reno NV 89503

HOURS

June through October: 8:00 AM to sunset

November through May: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Website

Oxbow Nature Study Area is a 22 acre preserve and one of the last protected riverside habitats in the Truckee Meadows, tucked away in west central Reno at the end of Dickerson Road. With so much to explore, it’s hard to believe this peaceful preserve is right in the middle of the city. It’s the perfect escape for families, outdoor enthusiasts, river lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature without leaving Reno.

Highlights

-Beautiful scenery

-Tranquility

-Wildlife

-Picnic worthy spots

-Soothing sounds of nature

-Fun & flat 0.8-mile loop trail

-Partial shade from trees

-Location next to the Truckee River

-Natural tree tunnels

When I first visited this park years ago, I immediately fell in love with its vibe. Towering trees, winding ramps to a lookout, interpretive signs, wildlife, picnic tables, and the peaceful sounds of nature... all nestled right by the Truckee River?!!? #spoiled

I’ve been to so many cities, and let me just say that it’s uncommon to find a place like this. Having a peaceful, protected natural area where you can walk along the river, observe wildlife, explore with the kids, and truly feel surrounded by nature is something special. Oxbow Nature Study Area is one of those places that reminds you just how fortunate we are to have spaces like this right here in Reno. 

Oxbow Nature Study Area also has a pretty interesting history. This 22 acre preserve sits along a former bend of the Truckee River and protects one of the last remaining natural riverside habitats in the Truckee Meadows. Today, you can explore the area’s trails, wetlands, river habitat, and cottonwood forest while looking for birds and other wildlife along the way. 

If you haven't already caught on, I always make an effort to seek out places like this that have so much to offer. Fun doesn't automatically have to involve taking your kids to the playground. Adding in some nature trails and sightseeing won't hurt, and just changing up the scene from time to time will go a long way in keeping everyone happy.

I’m so thankful for places like Oxbow Nature Study Area, where I can spend time with my kids and simply enjoy being together, only with a little more adventure and the beautiful soundtrack of nature playing in the background.

Nearby 

Honey Bakery 

A Chinese-style bakery that also offers a limited selection of dim sum, along with fresh-baked Chinese buns made daily. Recommendations: sticky rice in lotus leaf, siu mai, BBQ pork bun, pineapple red bean bun, and ham and green onion bun.

The Nest 

I love this local vintage boutique and the owner who runs it. It’s nicely organized, has a great selection, and is always fun to browse.

Terror 

If you’re a true Halloween fan and don’t already know about this local year-round Halloween shop, you’re seriously missing out! This shop is run by some amazing, die-hard Halloween fans who rented a Victorian house and transformed it into their spooky storefront. Be sure to check out their photo-op rooms.

NOTES

-No dogs allowed

-Restrooms and a water fountain available during park hours

-Benches are scattered around the visitor's center & along the trail, with a couple right by the river

-To get to the deck by the river, take the path all the way to the left, opposite of the  observation deck

-The trail's shady spots are a huge plus, especially during Reno’s hot summers 

-Rain can make the trails muddy. Toward the end of the trail, there’s a log bridge that isn’t stroller or wheelchair-friendly

Pictures taken during winter, 2020

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

Photography

© Katherine fung,

All rights reserved.

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