Mt. Rose Summit Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Views · Wildflowers

Standing tall to the north of Lake Tahoe, the views from the third-highest peak around the lake are superb. And as you finish the hot, steep summit, you'll wish you could dive right into the serene lake below!

From the often-crowded parking lot on Mount Rose highway, easily traverse the hillside with lovely flowers and grasses. Pass right under the steep slopes of Tamarack Peak on your left. Though forested, there are plenty of breaks in the trees to appreciate the view.

Head downhill for a while, pass a waterfall, and make your way towards Galena Creek. Many waterfalls and wildflowers grace the next section, and this is one of the more pleasant and easy sections of this run.

And now for the hard part! Cross the second branch of Galena Creek and immediately start the climb up Mount Rose, which won't let up until you hit the summit. In early to midsummer, this is one of the best places for wildflowers in all of Nevada, so make sure to take a break from the slog upwards.

Take a right when you get to the Rim to Reno Trail and take many switchbacks up the final climb to the summit. This section is strenuous, but the effort will all pay off at the top. Enjoy the stunning views of entire Tahoe basin!

Once you've had your fill of the incredible scenery, head back the way that you came to return to the trailhead and your car.

Remarkable wildflowers can be seen in the Galena Creek area when the season is right.