Hikes, Washoe Valley Day celebration & more planned at Washoe Lake

May events at Washoe Lake State Park include a guided hike to Virginia City, a sunset hike, Celebrate Washoe Valley Day and a wildlife-based campfire program. Reservations are required for the guided hike to Virginia City and for the sunset hike. Park entry is $7 per vehicle. There is a $2 discount for Nevada residents. Cash or check only.

Guided Hike to Virginia City: Reservations are required and limited to 15 people. This is a strenuous, 12.5 mile hike with an elevation gain of approximately 2,500 feet. This guided hike will depart from Washoe Lake and end in Virginia City, and will include a shuttle back to the park. Participants will need sturdy hiking boots, lots of water, lunch, snacks and clothing layers. Be prepared for changes in the weather along the way. This hike may be rescheduled in the event of inclement weather. The hikes takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 6. After paying the entrance fee at the booth, turn left, and meet at the Maze parking lot (the first parking lot on the right).

Guided Sunset Hike: This 3.5 mile hike follows the North Loop Equestrian Trail. Participants should bring a flashlight and sturdy hiking boots as most of this trail is sandy. Reservations are required. The hike is form 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. May 10. Meet at the North Boat Ramp Equestrian Area. To get there, take Exit 44 from I-580 and drive north approximately 6.5 miles on Eastlake Boulevard. Turn left onto Douglas Drive (1.5 miles). Turn right onto Lakeshore Drive and take an immediate left turn onto the park’s access road. The equestrian parking lot is approximately 1/2 mile down on the left.

Celebrate Washoe Valley Day: Meet the people of Washoe Valley while visiting with local residents and businesses. This event is held at the Washoe Lake State Park Group Use Pavilion. Park entrance fees are waived for this event. This event is hosted by the Washoe Valley Alliance. It takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 13. After turning left past the fee booth, meet at the second parking lot on the right. Additional parking is available. Park entrance fees are waived for this event.

Campfire Program: Park Wildlife: Join park staff for stories, photographs and discussions about local wildlife at this campfire event. Seating is limited, so participants should bring a lawn chair if possible. The park will provide the ingredients for S’mores, if weather permits a campfire. The program will be from 8 to 9 p.m. May 20. After paying the entrance fee at the fee booth, turn right. Turn left into Campground Loop A and park near Site No. 14. The campfire will be at either Site 14 or 15, depending on availability.

For information, go to http://parks.nv.gov/events.