Walking Davis Creek Regional Park

 

This week’s hiking spot is Davis Creek Regional Park in Washoe Valley, south of Reno. It took me roughly 20 minutes and there is a paved parking lot.  Some of the trails were closed due to fire restoration. Check out status on the Washoe County Parks Site for updates. Directions and a directory of other parks are also on this site.

 Washoecounty.gov/parks

Washoe County's official description is as follows:

“Located 20 miles south of Reno, this year-round recreational destination includes over 200 acres of pine and sage desert nestled against Slide Mountain on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Outdoor recreational opportunities include a campground with hot showers, scenic picnic areas surrounding a small fishing pond, hiking trails, an equestrian friendly trailhead, two reservable group camping areas, a large reservable group picnic area, an outdoor amphitheater and various interpretive programs. Be prepared for outstanding views of Washoe Lake and Slide Mountain while visiting Davis Creek Regional Park. Park rules and regulations are based on the Washoe County Code Chapter 95.”

The parking lot is nice, with plenty of parking and quick access to the freeway. Signage marked trail information.

I started out on the Ophir Trail. This trail is 7.5 miles in length and will wind up to Price Lake and Tahoe Meadows. I didn’t go that far. It has some rocky sections and a couple of areas of steep climbs, but the views are worth the effort! Depending on time of year, you can pass over creeks and see waterfalls. This is a “natural” trail, so dress appropriately and be alert for wildlife. The Summit still had snow, so the air was nice and cool. Once I am a little more fit, I plan on walking the entire loop.

 

Most of the trails intersect one another at different points. There are signs directing you to each trail. I also was pleased to find fixed steps and bridges, in some places. Dogs are supposed to be on leash. Horse riding is allowed in some areas (check website). Fishing requires license. I don't fish, but I usually have my binoculars for bird watching and a camera with me. I hope to have a dog to join me in the near future.

 

I changed from the challenging Ophir to the more relaxed Nature Trail. This is the most level of all walking paths. It follows the parking lot to Davis Creek Pond. There were a few spots of elevation, but nothing like the mountainous side where the Ophir (and closed Discovery) Trail is located. Meadows and a beautiful view of Washoe Lake were rewarding.

 

Carson City is a short hop on 395/580. Plenty of lunch spots and antique shops to pass the time before heading back to Reno. Or, cross over and check out Washoe Lake (park fees depend on day or camp use).