Tahoe-Pyramid Trail Reno segment
A scenic trail following the Truckee River, offering biking and hiking with beautiful mountain and river views near Reno.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Tahoe-Pyramid Trail Reno segment
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic trail following the Truckee River, offering biking and hiking with beautiful mountain and river views near Reno.
"Awesome trail and well worth the hike. Pulloff is a great place to stop for sunset too!"
Gravel Bike Friendly
Mostly hard-packed dirt, great for gravel bikes! Be ready for a steep hike-a-bike section further east. :athletic_shoe:
Sunset Spot
The Pulloff is a fantastic spot to catch the sunset over the river. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Truckee River Views
Along the entire trail
Follow the vibrant Truckee River, enjoying its natural beauty and the surrounding mountain landscapes.
Floriston/Mystic Area
Eastern segment
Experience a more secluded section with great river views and a sense of escape, perfect for a peaceful hike.
Idelwild Park
Reno segment
A relaxing spot to walk or bike, offering serene river sounds and a natural escape within the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Difficulty
Noise & Scenery Balance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Gravel Bike Friendly
Mostly hard-packed dirt, great for gravel bikes! Be ready for a steep hike-a-bike section further east. :athletic_shoe:
Sunset Spot
The Pulloff is a fantastic spot to catch the sunset over the river. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:
River Proximity
The trail hugs the Truckee River for much of its length, offering constant scenic beauty. :evergreen_tree:
Noise Awareness
Sections near Hwy 80 can be noisy. For quieter moments, explore further east from Verdi. :ear:
Tips
from all over the internet
Gravel Bike Friendly
Mostly hard-packed dirt, great for gravel bikes! Be ready for a steep hike-a-bike section further east. :athletic_shoe:
Sunset Spot
The Pulloff is a fantastic spot to catch the sunset over the river. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:
River Proximity
The trail hugs the Truckee River for much of its length, offering constant scenic beauty. :evergreen_tree:
Noise Awareness
Sections near Hwy 80 can be noisy. For quieter moments, explore further east from Verdi. :ear:
Bike Ride from Tahoe
Riders have completed epic journeys from Tahoe City to Pyramid Lake, showcasing the trail's potential. :bicyclist:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail for its beautiful river and mountain scenery, making it a worthwhile hike or bike ride. The trail is generally well-maintained, offering a peaceful experience, especially in sections away from highway noise. Some find the proximity to Highway 80 detracts from the natural ambiance.
"Awesome trail and well worth the hike. Pulloff is a great place to stop for sunset too!"
Josiah Roe
"My first time on the trail. I was on a gravel bike. Great scenery.the trail is well maintained and mostly hard packed dirt. There's a steep hike-a-bike section as you get further east down the canyon."
Ed Burnett
"The Tahoe-Pyramid Trail is a nice trail which follows the Truckee River and Hwy 80. The trail stays close to the river a majority of the way and has a few historic buildings along the trail. It's gradually climbs the canyon and offers a unique and peaceful experience. I mountain biked from the lower start of the trail about two miles before turning back around."
Brendan Kiely
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access points are scattered along the Truckee River. Popular starting points include Idelwild Park in Reno and various pull-offs near Highway 80, such as near Verdi and Floriston.
Yes, the trail extends into California, with access points near Truckee and Floriston. Some cyclists have ridden from Tahoe City all the way to Pyramid Lake. 
Driving to designated pull-offs or parks is the most common method. Parking availability can vary, especially on weekends.
Public transport directly to trailheads is limited. It's best to plan for personal vehicle access or ride-sharing services.
The full trail connects Tahoe City to Pyramid Lake, covering over 100 miles. The Reno segment is a popular portion for day trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail is a public access trail and does not require an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty for free! :moneywithwings:
The trail is open year-round from dawn to dusk. However, conditions can vary significantly with weather, especially in winter.
No permits are required for general hiking or biking on the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail. Always check local regulations for any specific park areas.
Dogs are generally allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash. Always clean up after your pet. :dog:
While the trail itself is accessible, it's not recommended to use it after dark due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail is mostly hard-packed dirt, making it suitable for gravel bikes. Be prepared for a steep hike-a-bike section as you move further east.
A 50-mile stretch from Alpine Meadows to Mae-Anne Ave in Reno can take a significant portion of the day, depending on your pace and stops.
Restroom facilities are limited and primarily found in designated park areas like Idelwild Park. Plan accordingly.
You might spot butterflies, wildflowers, and various birds along the Truckee River. Keep an eye out for local fauna.
Yes, sections like Idelwild Park are great for families. Be mindful of the terrain and potential noise from Highway 80 on other parts.
📸 📸 Photography
The Pulloff offers stunning sunset views. Any point along the Truckee River provides beautiful natural scenery.
Absolutely! The combination of the river, mountains, and open skies makes for excellent landscape photography opportunities.
Golden hours, both sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting. Evenings are particularly popular for sunset shots.
Look for historic buildings along the trail and the dynamic flow of the Truckee River.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can capture wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning a family outing, pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are scarce outside of designated park areas. The trail's natural beauty, with the flowing Truckee River, can be captivating for kids, offering a chance to observe local flora and fauna.
🚴 Cyclists
+1 Plan your route based on your fitness level and desired experience, as sections vary in difficulty and scenery. 🚶 Hikers Seeking Nature
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail
The trail's connection to the Truckee River provides a constant, scenic companion for your ride. When planning a cycling trip, consider the varied terrain. For a day trip from Alpine Meadows to Mae-Anne Ave in Reno, expect approximately 50 miles, which can take a full day depending on your fitness and how often you stop to admire the views.
Cyclists can access various points along the trail, with pull-offs near Highway 80 being common starting points. The trail's gradual climb through the canyon offers a unique and peaceful experience, punctuated by the natural beauty of the river and surrounding mountains.
Hiking and Nature on the Trail
Many visitors highlight the peaceful experience and the chance to connect with nature. You can find plentiful butterflies and wildflowers, especially in the spring and summer months.
It's a great option for a quick nature fix close to Reno, offering a sense of getting away without traveling far. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be uneven.
The Legacy of the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail
Her dedication helped create a vital connection between Lake Tahoe and Pyramid Lake, celebrating the ecological and recreational importance of the Truckee River. The trail's development aimed to provide a continuous, non-motorized route, promoting outdoor activity and appreciation for the region's natural beauty. It serves as a crucial link, not only for recreation but also for understanding the watershed's significance.
This trail represents a significant achievement in regional connectivity, offering a unique perspective on the landscape and the journey of the Truckee River.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit