As the days get longer, and the weather gets (mostly) warmer people can look forward to spending less time inside and more time outdoors. As students, most of our lives are spent inside classrooms, libraries, offices and homes and it can be stifling. Though Reno has been teasing us with a few nice days scattered here and there, warmer days are on the way and you may be wondering what you can do to get outside and have some fun.

The Reno, Tahoe area has many opportunities for adventure, most free or inexpensive. Maybe you aren’t much of an outdoor person, you don’t know how to find new activities, or you are looking for some spring/summer weather inspiration, but The Nevada Sagebrush is here to help. This is News You Can Use with a guide to outdoor activities.

Hiking

It is no secret that Reno and the surrounding area are home to some of the prettiest mountain trails. Not only is hiking a great way to get outside, it’s an easy way to get exercise and explore parts of the city you may have not seen before.

If you’re looking for a moderate, out and back trail enjoyable for both beginners and seasoned pros, the lower Galena Creek trail is a great option. Located at the base of Mt. Rose left off of Mt. Rose Highway, the trail follows a river and features a few man-made bridges as well as a fallen log bridge at the end of the trail. This spot is great for a casual hike, or even a trail-run as it is only 4.7 miles. Don’t forget to take your time by the river, maybe dip your toes in the chilly water, and eat some snacks before heading back down.

If you want a hike that is a little more challenging, Hunter Creek is a beautiful 5.8 mile out and back trail that runs along a creek, and features a waterfall for those that make it all the way to the end. The trailhead is easy to get to, just a short drive from Northwest Reno. Be prepared for a bit of a climb and some tricky river crossings, and make sure you bring lots of water if it is a hot day. This is a highly trafficked trail, so you will come across lots of other hikers and dogs, but the scenery and the waterfall at the top are worth it.

If you want a trail that fits your specific needs, check out AllTrails. This platform lets you search for trails around your city based on difficulty, length, features, etc. and gives you directions, reviews and helpful tips.

Day Trips

If you are longing for a bigger adventure, Reno is the perfect hub for some breathtaking day-trips that will have you thinking, “How have I not done this before?”

Sand Mountain Recreation area is exactly what it sounds like, a giant sand dune in the middle of the Nevada desert. Just outside of Fallon, this spectacular sight is only about an hour and 40 minutes outside of Reno. The giant dune is not only perfect for a fire Instagram post, or some sick off-roading, but it is one of the few singing sand dunes in the world. This natural sound phenomenon can reach 105 decibels, lasting as long as several minutes.

Nevada City is another great day trip. This gem of a city is only an hour and a half away, and is California’s best-preserved Gold Rush town. Deer Creek flows through the center of town and a lot of adorable local shops and restaurants. Nevada City also hosts a lot of fun community events and headquarters including the Nevada Film Festival, farmers markets, the Miners Foundry, and the headquarters for the Tahoe National Forest.

Of course, we can’t forget about Tahoe, one of the world’s most beautiful lakes that happens to sit right above the Biggest Little City. Taking a drive around the lake and stopping at some of the most famous spots and overlooks can make a wonderful day trip.

Thrills

Do you want some more thrilling outside activities? Reno/Tahoe has a lot to offer for those wanting more than just a casual adventure. If you’re feeling strong, and want to channel your inner spider-man head to Whitney Peak Hotel which has the Guinness Book of World Records “World’s Tallest Climbing Wall” (164 feet) running up the outside of the building.

Ski resorts aren’t only great to visit in the winter. Squaw Valley has a ropes course featuring beginning and intermediate elevated aerial trekking courses accompanying vertical climbing elements on the 50’ Alpine Tower with the peaks of Squaw Valley in the background. So as soon as the snow melts, head up and get your adventure on.

Emily Fisher can be reached at efisher@sagebrush.unr.edu and on Twitter @NevadaSagebrush.