4 Outdoor Activities To Do While Staying at River West Resort
Reno isn't just about casinos and entertainment—it's a gateway to some of Nevada's best outdoor adventures. Whether you're in town for work or leisure, River West Resort puts you minutes away from exceptional outdoor recreation. Here are four activities that will transform your Reno visit from ordinary to unforgettable.
1. Fishing: Cast Your Line in Trophy Waters
Truckee River (River West Resort’s Backyard)
For fun fishing without leaving the resort, the Truckee River delivers. This historic waterway flows 121 miles from Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake, passing right through Reno's heart. You'll find healthy populations of rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat throughout the urban sections. The best part? River West Resort positions you perfectly for a quick access point. Cast a line from the shore while having your home just feet away.
Pyramid Lake (40 miles northeast from River West Resort)
This ancient desert lake draws anglers worldwide with good reason. Pyramid Lake holds the record for the largest Lahontan cutthroat trout ever caught—an incredible 41 pounds. The striking turquoise waters against dramatic tufa formations and desert mountains create a fishing experience unlike anywhere else. Managed by the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, you'll need a permit to fish here, but the opportunity to hook into massive cutthroat makes it worthwhile. Prime fishing runs from October through June, with spring offering the best action as fish move into shallow spawning areas.
2. Skiing & Snowshoeing: Winter Adventures Close to Town
Mt. Rose Ski Resort (27 miles from River West Resort)
When winter arrives, Mt. Rose delivers Tahoe's most convenient skiing from Reno. The resort sits at 8,260 feet—the highest base elevation around Lake Tahoe—which means better snow quality and longer seasons. With 1,200 acres spread across 60+ trails, everyone finds their challenge here. Beginners enjoy gentle learning terrain while experts tackle The Chutes, featuring sustained 40-55 degree pitches that rank among North America's longest continuous steeps. From River West Resort, you're looking at roughly 30 minutes to the slopes.
Chickadee Ridge at Tahoe Meadows (30 miles from River West Resort)
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts shouldn't miss Tahoe Meadows. The 3-mile round trip to Chickadee Ridge combines stunning Sierra scenery with a truly magical wildlife encounter. As you near the ridgeline overlooking Lake Tahoe, curious mountain chickadees will actually perch on your hands, shoulders, and head if you bring unsalted sunflower seeds. Nevada Nordic maintains groomed tracks here, and the terrain suits everyone from first-timers to experienced Nordic skiers. After a fresh snowfall, this becomes one of the region's most photogenic winter destinations.
3. Hiking: Waterfalls and Forest Trails
Hunter Creek Trail (15 minutes from River West Resort)
Located right in northwest Reno, this 6-mile round-trip hike ranks as the area's most popular waterfall destination. You'll climb gradually through open canyon terrain before entering shaded pine forest near the end. The reward? A beautiful 30-foot waterfall where you can rest, cool off, and refuel before heading back. The trailhead offers parking, restrooms, and drinking water. Plan for about 3 hours total, and remember to pack sun protection—most of the trail has limited shade. April through October provides the best conditions.
Galena Creek Regional Park (20 miles From River West Resort)
For variety and family-friendly options, Galena Creek Regional Park excels. Just seven miles up Mt. Rose Highway from I-580, the park features trails from easy half-mile nature loops to the demanding 9-mile Jones-Whites Creek Loop with substantial elevation gain. Galena Creek flows through the property, creating pleasant creek-side hiking in summer when you can wade in cool mountain water. Stop at the visitor center before you hit the trails—they provide helpful maps, current conditions, and trail recommendations based on your group's ability.
4. Mountain Biking: Trails for Every Rider
Peavine Peak (3.5 miles northwest from River West Resort)
Peavine Mountain stands out as Reno's premier mountain biking destination. Located just northwest of downtown, this massive trail network offers hundreds of trail options from mellow flow to technical gnar. The classic McCarran-to-Peavine route covers 13 miles round trip with 1,500 feet of climbing—perfect for an after-work adventure or weekend training ride. Beginner-friendly options like B-Lite and Rancho Connector let newer riders build confidence, while experienced riders tackle steep descents like Snake Run and Fisticufs. The high-desert landscape provides sweeping views of the Truckee Meadows and surrounding peaks.
Sierra Vista Bike Park (13 minutes from River WEst Resort)
Sierra Vista transforms 200 acres of former golf course into mountain biking heaven. With 20+ miles of purpose-built trails, this park accommodates everyone. Beginners progress on green trails with smooth surfaces and gentle features. Intermediates enjoy flow trails with bermed turns and optional jumps. Advanced riders challenge themselves on black diamond routes featuring large gaps and drops. The park also includes a pump track for skill building. Best of all, Sierra Vista sits just minutes from downtown Reno, making it ideal for quick sessions or extended explorations—all within easy reach of River West Resort.
Tahoe-Pyramid Trail (minutes away from River West Resort)
Hop on your bike right from our resort, and head right onto 2nd street, then south on Keystone Ave. You’ll reach the Truckee River and the Tahoe Pyramid trail that runs along it. The trail connects Tahoe City with Reno, and in the future it will reach Pyramid lake.
Why River West Resort Is Your Perfect Base Camp
River West Resort gives you strategic access to all these outdoor adventures while keeping you close to Reno's amenities. Whether you're here for Hot August Nights, a volleyball tournament, travel nursing, or exploring the West Coast, we provide:
Convenient Location – Quick highway access means you're never more than 40 miles from world-class recreation
Comfortable Accommodations – Full-hookup RV sites and mini cottages with modern amenities
After-Adventure Ease – Return to clean facilities, laundry, and relaxation space
Flexible Stays – Short-term options perfect for event visitors and weekend warriors
Gear-Friendly Sites – Ample space for bikes, skis, fishing equipment, and adventure vehicles
Value Pricing – Quality accommodations that fit your travel budget
Don't let Reno's outdoor opportunities pass you by. Whether you're landing trophy trout, carving fresh turns, hiking to hidden waterfalls, or shredding mountain bike trails, River West Resort positions you perfectly for Nevada adventure.
Ready to explore? Reserve your spot at River West Resort today and discover why outdoor enthusiasts choose us as their Reno home base.