Hidden Gem - Crystal Peak Park, Verdi.

561 Crystal Park Road

Verdi, NV 89439

Park Ranger Office: 

(775) 828-6612

Website 
Trail Map

One of the things I love most about living in Reno is how close we are to breathtaking natural beauty, and Crystal Peak Park is the perfect example of that. Just 10 miles from Reno, this gorgeous park is tucked between mountains and the Truckee River, making it a great little escape.

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 

-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, adding a rich historical layer to your visit.

But history isn't the only draw. 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—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 view.

I’ll be honest, 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.

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

Whether you’re here for a bit of history, an adventure in quartz hunting, or just a peaceful day outdoors by the river, Crystal Peak Park has something for everyone. The combination of rich history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities makes it 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

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

Take a Scenic Stroll Back in Time and Walk the Lands of the Cowboys at Bartley Ranch, Nevada.

6000 Bartley Ranch Road,

Reno, NV 89511

Website

Map of trails

Facebook

Park Ranger Office: (775) 828-6612
Pavilion Reservations (775) 823-6501

Bartley Ranch holds a special place in my heart as one of my all-time favorite parks in Reno. Its Western vibe, shaded grassy lawns, natural beauty, amenities, events & concerts make it an absolute must visit.  At 56 acres, the park may seem big, but the way it's landscaped and designed make it feel like an intimate & welcoming park. 

Stepping into Bartley Ranch is like stepping back in time. The park has vintage tractors and wooden shacks that give you a glimpse of the past. The horse tracks along the trails only add to that old timey charm. 

Some of the highlights of the park is the Western Heritage Interpretive Center, a cool vintage Huffaker School, and an amphitheater that you can rent for special occasions. Right outside the interpretive center, you’ll find pamphlets with interesting tidbits about the park’s plants, wildlife, and history.

Coming in from the south, you’re greeted with a scenic lookout - Audrey Harris Park - that offers stunning views before you descend into the park. From there, you can spot everything from the white picket fence shaped like Nevada to runners hitting the trails, dog walkers, and people simply soaking in the views from the benches.

Within just a short 30 minute walk at the park, you can encounter wildlife, different landscapes, and a cute nature trail that leads to a charming wooden bridge. From there, a wooden walkway takes you along the gorgeous hills, and a zigzagging trail brings you right back to the heart of the park.

Bartley Ranch Park never disappoints. It’s a place I keep coming back to, and I’m so excited to share it with all of you.

2024

Main Events at Bartley Ranch Regional Park

Come in from the Cold 

Winter Saturday evening concerts (bluegrass, jazz, cowboy poetry) at the Western Heritage Interpretive Center.

Evenings on the Ranch 

Summer Wednesday evening performances on the Plaza lawn (bluegrass, Chautauqua, poetry).

Hawkins Amphitheater Events 

Summer concerts, plays, community performances, Artown events, and special rentals.

Gardening Series 

Spring evening classes on fruit trees, pollinators, and desert gardening.

Junior Ranger Programs & Ranger-Led Hikes 

Educational programs for kids on nature and history.

“Washoe County Rocks!” 

Geology-focused workshops at the Interpretive Center.

Fall Harvest Festival 

Seasonal festival with petting zoo, carriage rides, crafts, and community activities.

Community Gatherings 

Music, potlucks, and local events hosted by groups like the Northern Nevada Bluegrass Association.

Notes

-Plenty of parking available

-For special events, get there early as parking fills up quickly

-Bartley Ranch is a hot spot for photo sessions

-Catch the fun annual festival here benefiting NYEP

-Restrooms available

-Nearby at The Shops at Bartley Ranch:

*Icecycle Creamery 

Great spot for adventurous, small-batch ice cream flavors and deli sandwiches.

*Kuma Sushi 

All‑you‑can‑eat sushi in a modern, cozy space.

*Bighorn Tavern 

In the Shops at Bartley Ranch; a casual neighborhood tavern with burgers, tacos, wings, and more. 

*Smiling with Hope Pizza  

Also in the Shops at Bartley Ranch; classic New York–style pizza.

Bartley Ranch in Fall

Park at Audrey Harris Park for lookout.

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

***Information subject to change.

***All opinions are my own.

Photography

©Katherine Fung,

All rights reserved.