Untamed
Explore America's 'Ultimate Urban Basecamp'
Pro surfer Dane Gudauskas knows there's one way to experience the untamed side of Reno Tahoe: by leaning on the locals who know it best. The exposure starts with filmmaker Jordan Drew, who takes Gudauskas paddling down the Truckee River into the heart of downtown, then up the granite slabs of Donner Summit with area climbing phenom Maddie Barnes. A trip to the turquoise waters of Lake Tahoe has them surfing an "infinitely rippable wave" with Roy Tuscany, founder of the High Fives Foundation, alongside some inspiring adaptive athletes, before riding the array of trails at Sky Tavern with local bike expert Robert Watts. "It's the crew that makes the place special," says Gudauskas, reflecting on days stacked with activity where the city and mountains are stitched together, offering access that's both unique and immediate.
Limitless Adventures
At the crossroads of the Sierra Nevada range and Nevada's high desert, Reno Tahoe serves as an ideal basecamp. At the heart of it all, the colorful and dynamic city of Reno anchors a broader region where alpine recreation meets wild open spaces, putting an outsized roster of adventures within easy reach, from destination classics like Lake Tahoe to adrenaline-filled whitewater runs and overlooked trail systems — not to mention the eclectic cultural tastes of unique desert culture that only add to the mix.
Relaxing Floats and Fishing Finds
You may have heard of a not-so-little body of water called Lake Tahoe. Just 45 minutes from downtown Reno, this massive alpine lake — the largest in North America — sits at 6,200 feet and is a recreational dream. (Think: paddleboarding at Sand Harbor, beach days, and boat tours.) But it's not the only game in town.
Drive 40 minutes in the opposite direction, northeast of Reno, to Pyramid Lake, northern Nevada's second biggest lake. Here, the high-desert scenery and tufa rock formations offer a wholly different experience compared to the treelined shores of Lake Tahoe. Launch your kayak from the southwestern shore of the lake to paddle near Anaho Island, a national wildlife refuge that's a major nesting ground for one of the largest colonies of American white pelicans. Since the lake is a sacred landmark for the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, the shores of the island and certain sections of the lake are not open to the public. You can still observe the birds and marvel at the unique geology while paddling a safe distance (500 feet) from shore.
Whitewater Thrills Through Downtown
The 120-mile Truckee River, which flows from Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake, cuts right through the heart of downtown Reno and is a central part of life in the city, both on and off the water. Grab a tube and set out on a relaxing river float from Mayberry or Dorostkar parks on the west side of town. Or hone your paddling skills at the channels, waves, and pool-drop features of the Truckee River Whitewater Park, that caters to kayakers of all skill levels. (Upriver, a nearly 30-mile section of Class II-IV rapids offers a more challenging run for experienced paddlers and guided raft tours.)
For ideal in-town tubing, wait for lower water levels (200-500 cfs), typically from late June to early September during average snow years. If you miss that window, you can still explore the Reno segment of the river on foot or by bike along the 12-mile paved path that follows approximately the same route as the city river float.
Singletrack Fitness and Flow
Reno's proximity to the Sierra Nevada range makes for easy access to top-notch mountain biking. Head 20 minutes south of Reno toward Mount Rose to ride at Sky Tavern. This community-supported bike park offers downhill trails with features for all skill levels, plus connectors to other popular Reno Tahoe trails. Pedal-up access is open to the public, while a season-long or monthly membership grants riders access to the shuttle.
On the other (northwest) edge of Reno, Peavine Mountain hosts an expansive, interconnected network of singletrack trails, stunning hikes, and motorized OHV routes. Then in town, Sierra Vista Bike Park has a more high-desert feel, with flowy routes through the sagebrush, plus a pump track and skills zone. For a full-service (aka lift-access) experience, opt for the Northstar Bike Park, where riders can explore 30 downhill and cross-country trails.
Eclectic and Illuminated Art
As the closest city to Black Rock Desert, site of the annual Burning Man gathering, Reno has become a hub of creative expression in its own right. Many of Burning Man's famed art installations have found a permanent home in the city, and new pieces are regularly added to the public art roster. See some of the most odd, intricate, and immersive of the structures, including the stained-glass Space Whale, at City Plaza Park along the Riverwalk District.
Or explore the up-and-coming Reno Neon Line, a revitalized downtown district quickly growing into a hub of large-scale art. The half-mile corridor features rotating installations from Burning Man as well as nine historic neon signs—all restored or fabricated as a tribute to original, iconic Reno signage.
Why Reno Should Land on Your Adventure Travel List
The Biggest Little City is the ultimate basecamp for even bigger outdoor adventures and creative pursuits.
