RENO, Nev. (Oct. 7, 22) – Fall can be a fleeting season, making squeezing in those must-do fall activities a challenge for busy families. Whether it be leaf-peeping, fall hiking, pumpkin patches or just cozying up to a warm fire on a cool, crisp morning, the Reno-Tahoe Territory is the perfect place to knock out your fall activity bucket list.
Pumpkin Patches and Harvest Festivals
For those who have “visit a pumpkin patch” on their fall to-do list, there’s no shortage in the Reno-Tahoe Territory. Families looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors together during the region’s ideal fall temperatures find pumpkin patches in every corner of the region. Better yet, visit them all. Here’s a list of Reno-Tahoe Territory’s must-visit pumpkin patches and fall activities:
Corely Ranch in Carson Valley, located just 20 minutes south of the state capital and South Lake Tahoe, is a real working and raising cattle ranch with farming, hay and, of course, pumpkins. The Harvest Festival takes place each year the whole month of October offering families that quintessential fall experience surrounded by farmland and outside a rural Northern Nevada community. Activities include giant sling shot, train rides and picking out the perfect pumpkin. Weekends bring food and other vendors onsite for a complete harvest experience. Details here.
For something different, head to Virginia City for the Virginia & Truckee Railroad Pumpkin Patch Train. Climb aboard the vintage railroad coach and enjoy a scenic voyage to the pumpkin patch where a great variety of pumpkins await. It’s two experiences in one – a train ride and a pumpkin patch. Ticket and details here.
The Harvest Festival at Andelin Family Farm in Reno’s neighboring city of Sparks is a must for families. Admission to the farm includes wagon rides, barrel train rides, mini zip lines, slide mountain, viewing and visiting the farm animals, a straw bale maze, corn maze and activities. For an extra fee, check out the pony and horse rides, gem mining, a corn cannon, a 5-acre corn maze, onsite food vendors and leave with a pumpkin ready for carving. Details here.
Leaf-Peeping and Hiking
Reno-Tahoe Territory’s diverse landscape affords some beautiful views and unique scenery for an unexpected fall colors tour. In Lake Tahoe, hike or mountain bike to Marlette Lake to see masses of aspen trees changing colors. The trail is less crowded at this time and vibrant during the changing season. Learn more here.
In Carson Valley, the small town of Genoa offers a rustic fall vibe with large cottonwood trees hanging over the quaint streets. A six mile hike up the Genoa Waterfall Trail affords a brisk and challenging outdoor walk and opportunity to take in the expansive views of the valley. Get more information here.
Reno’s downtown Riverwalk is a lovely place to walk along the river and photograph the trees over the Truckee River. Or, hike the Galena Creek Trail at the base of Mt. Rose Highway to see vibrant groups of aspens in the foothills. Find more ideas for fall colors here.
For a different kind of walk through the fall colors, check out Carson City’s annual Ghost Walk. This walking tour of Carson City’s historical and haunted west side includes a paranormal investigation taking participants through some of the historic homes along the Kit Carson Trail. Get details here.
Cozy Up and Relax
When it comes to quiet places to relax and enjoy the cool mornings, Reno-Tahoe Territory has some great options. In Virginia City, book a room at one of the mining town’s Victorian-era bed and breakfasts and warm your feet by the fire while looking out the window to the “six-mile view” of the canyon below. View lodging options here.
In Carson City, the St. Charles Hotel offers comfortable and cozy suites right in the historic downtown district, across from the state capitol building. Just steps away from the McFadden Plaza, guests can enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea and a brisk morning stroll in historic downtown Carson City. Learn more here.
For more Reno-Tahoe Territory fall activities and ideas, check out our top must-do fall activities here.
About Reno-Tahoe Territory
The Reno-Tahoe Territory is a vast and diverse region of high desert valleys, majestic tree-lined mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Encompassing the destinations of Carson City, Carson Valley, Reno-Sparks, North Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe and Virginia City, Nevada. There’s no other place in the world that can claim the beauty of Lake Tahoe, the action and adventure of the “Biggest Little City in the World,” the rich history of the Comstock Lode, or the state’s oldest recorded settlement — all within 60 minutes of each other. Visit RenoTahoe.com for more.
