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Crystal Peak Park in Verdi

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Crystal Peak Park takes in 56 acres along the Truckee River in Verdi, a few miles west of Reno. It is managed by Washoe County and has amenities and things to enjoy for a variety of park users. There are no entrance or day use fees. For more information, contact the park ranger at (775) 828-6612.

Hike the Crystal Peak Nature Trail

This interpretive trail is 1.3 miles and all flat. The tread is wide and sandy, so it is not considered ADA accessible. It starts from the park's picnic area at an underpass beneath Verdi's 3rd Street. You can hike in either direction. Clockwise takes you along the Truckee River with numerous short side trails down to the water. There are some benches where you can sit in the shade of big trees and enjoy the river. Be sure to look for several signs that explain some of the history of the place where you are walking and tell you about the remainders of buildings you'll encounter. It's interesting to learn that there was a big Verdi Lumber Company mill on the site, followed by the Verdi Glen Resort. As was common back then, both were lost to fires.

The other side of the loop is further from the river and returns to the starting point. To add some interest to your walk, take one of the side trails over to the Verdi Ponds on the way back. These two small lakes are popular fishing spots and good places to see waterfowl and other birds. They are repurposed from the old Verdi Lumber Company mill pond. If you want to try your luck fishing, you'll need to have a Nevada fishing license. If you would rather fish in the river, there is a fisherman's access trail that goes south from the picnic area and follows the Truckee River.

The Crystal Peak Nature Trail is open to hiking only - dogs, bicycles, and equestrians are not allowed. Washoe County has an excellent online map of Crystal Peak Park, which includes the trail system, nearby roads, and other information about the park.

Nature trail and fishing ponds at Crystal Peak Park in Verdi, Nevada.

Other Things To Do at Crystal Peak Park

In addition to hiking and fishing, park facilities include five individual picnic areas and two small group areas. These are in an area with lawn and big shade trees. There are restroom facilities and the parking lots are paved.

Getting to Crystal Peak Park

Drive about 10 miles west of Reno on I80 and take the Verdi exit past Boomtown and Cabela's. At the stop, turn left on S. Verdi Road (there is a sign pointing to Crystal Peak Park). This road twists around, passing under I80, over the railroad tracks, and under I80 again. It turns into Crystal Park Road. Look for the park's upper parking lot on your left. Just before this lot, there is a sharp left turn that takes you to the lower lot by the picnic area, restrooms, and trailhead. There is a Crystal Peak Park sign here, but it is hard to see before you need to turn.

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