It was a close call when the Davis Fire burned along the Mount Rose Highway earlier in September. Thankfully, the firefighters stopped it before it reached the upper part of the highway. That means lots of beautiful aspens, fall color, and stunning scenery remain for you to enjoy near Reno.
Upper Reaches of the Highway Looking Picturesque
The upper reaches of Mount Rose Highway are at peak now with a mixture of yellows, golds, and oranges. You’ll find aspens in their fall attire from Winters Creek Road up past the Mount Rose Trailhead as of Sunday, September 29, 2024. They’re all At Peak (75%) and we suggest you Go Now or risk missing it.
We predict that autumn colors up there should be good throughout this coming week, so if you live in Carson City or Reno and you can sneak away, we highly recommend it.
The willows also are looking lovely, adding swaths of yellow and gold in the meadows and underneath the aspens.
With the warm weather and because some trees here and there are still green, we think the color up top may last through Sunday, October 6.
Fall Color Hikes at Tahoe Meadows
The best way to appreciate the color? Trek along the Tahoe Rim Trail or the Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop, which is an easy 1.3 mile walk. Just keep in mind that the trail is well above 8,000 feet above sea level, so if you’re not acclimated take it slow.
From the Interpretive Loop and Tahoe Rim Trail, you’ll have views of the aspen- and willow-covered hillside across the highway, painted yellow and orange as the trees peak.
The interpretive Loop trail and the Tahoe Rim Trail also pass by a lot of willows turning yellow and boasts great views of Tahoe Meadows, with carpets of colorful willows.
Sky Tavern Autumn Foliage
Mount Rose Highway Fall Color Report 2024
Aspens, Upper Part of the Highway – At Peak (75%)
Willows, Upper Part of the Highway – Near Peak (65%)
Sky Tavern Aspens – Patchy (10%)
Find Dozens of Other Fall Color Hotspots
Our Nevada Fall Color Map lets you relax and rejuvenate in your choice of fall color locations throughout the state. Buy it now so you can enjoy the fall color before it disappears for another year.
