Patchy color is showing up at the eastern end of Hope Valley. Hope Valley is in California. But because it’s near Gardnerville, Minden, and Carson City, Nevada, and relatively near Reno, it makes for a convenient autumn drive. That’s why we decided to report on it in Nevada Fall Color.
About 20% of the aspens on the dirt road next to Desolation Hotel were turning gold as of Saturday, September 19, 2026. You can’t drive up the road because it’s gated and it eventually turns into a path, but it makes for a great hike.
Across from Desolation Hotel, quite a few of the aspens along the river are also turning yellow. In fact, there’s probably the most color there, more like 30%.
The grove of aspens to the west of the hotel along State Route 88 have some spotty color. This includes a few trees that are peaking and look lovely.
Pair a drive along State Route 88 in Minden and Gardnerville to view the red maples (peaking in a week or two) with a visit to Hope Valley in the mountains. This road trip is a peaceful way to spend the day.
Hope Valley Fall Color Report September 21, 2026
Eastern Side of Hope Valley – 20%, Patchy to 30% Getting Better along the Carson River.
