Park Ranger Office: (775) 849-2511
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, scenic hiking trails, 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 the Reno skyline 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.
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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.    For those looking to turn this into a longer adventure, the Upper Thomas Creek, Dry Pond, and Upper Whites Creek trails can be combined into a scenic loop. The route takes you through beautiful sections of pine and aspen forest, along the creek, past Dry Pond, and back down alongside Whites Creek. The Dry Pond Loop is roughly 6.5 to 7 miles depending on the exact route, making it a great option for hikers looking for something considerably longer than the Lower Thomas Creek section. |
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).
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
