Coming Up Roses

Looking to spice up your hiking life? Give your partner a rose—Mount Rose! The 10-mile out-and-back peak hike goes up to one of the grandest views in all of Lake Tahoe. Get ready for a solid hiking day!

The first few miles are a nice steady incline traversing sagebrush, lodgepole, and whitebark pines. At 2.5 miles a waterfall makes a nice place to stop, catch your breath, and peer up at your goal: the 10,778-foot summit. In total, you’ll gain 2,425 feet, so take your time!

Walk through a broad meadow filled with willows, wildflowers, and mule ears before starting the final push uphill through rocky switchbacks. It can be a huff and puff, but the Sierra Nevada scenery keeps you inspired: The views get better and better as you ascend. The peak welcomes you with a ridge traverse and jumble of shale and rock walls stacked to block the wind.

If you have a clear day you’ll see out to Lake Tahoe and other majestic peaks like Mount Tallac and Pyramid Peak. Reno and the Truckee Meadows are also easily visible, as are other smaller lakes. Take a selfie in front of the summit sign, high-five your hiking partner, and celebrate the most beautiful rose in Tahoe!

TIP: Find more adventures around Reno Tahoe.

Park at the Mount Rose Summit Trailhead on Hwy. 431 (map). Go early as the parking lot fills up quickly on weekends. Follow the Mount Rose Trail all the way up to the summit and back. Dog-friendly!