Looking for the top places to run, local running stores, group runs, and more? Here’s your guide to running in Reno-Tahoe.

(Feature photo by istock.com/gchapel)

Article last updated: November 7, 2025

---

The Reno-Tahoe City Guide is developed in partnership with Reno Running Company. Read more about Reno Running Company in the Running Stores section below!

Reno-Tahoe is a runner’s paradise. Whether you prefer paved paths or dirt trails, your options for both will get you into nature and alongside the area’s rivers and lakes.

Annual destination races include half marathons through Reno’s city center and along Lake Tahoe’s shoreline, a few trail ultras, and a 178-mile team relay route that takes runners through Reno, Carson City, South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, and Truckee.

After your run, relax and fuel up at a local coffee shop, brewery, pizzeria, or healthy eatery — there are great options all around town. And don’t forget to stop by Reno Running Company to chat with the staff and pick up some new running gear.

Bookmark this guide for your next trip to the Reno-Tahoe area. Rather than researching where to go, you can spend more time on the trails and grabbing a post-run beer.

• Running in Reno-Tahoe
• When Is the Best Time to Visit Reno-Tahoe?
• Where to Stay in Reno-Tahoe
• Where to Run in Reno-Tahoe
• Running Stores in Reno-Tahoe
• Run Clubs in Reno-Tahoe
• Destination Races in Reno-Tahoe
• After a Run: Where to Eat in Reno-Tahoe

Planning your upcoming running vacations?
Find more destination running guides.

---

Running in Reno-Tahoe

Runners visiting the Reno-Tahoe area can expect varied terrain, stunning scenery, and a mild climate. You’ll find an impressive mix of running terrain, including flat urban streets, challenging hill climbs, and technical trails. So, whether you prefer road running, trail running, or hill training, there’s something for everyone.

Not only that, the city of Reno is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty — the Sierra Nevada mountains, the Truckee River, and nearby Lake Tahoe, to name a few. It’s a great area to connect with nature.

---

When Is the Best Time to Visit Reno-Tahoe?

Reno enjoys four distinct seasons, with generally mild weather and over 250 days of sunshine each year. This makes it easy to run outdoors almost year-round. But fall is pure magic. This time of year, you’re likely to enjoy perfect temps, fall colors, and ideal trail conditions.

---

Where to Stay in Reno-Tahoe

Running Lifestyle is pleased to be partnered with TravelRunner, your go-to source for running-friendly accommodations. Read recent hotel reviews from fellow runners and athletes, and book your perfect stay. Become a part of a community created by and for travel runners!

Use code GUIDE for 2.5% off your bookings on TravelRunner.com.

Back to Top of Article

---

Where to Run in Reno-Tahoe

Hunter Creek Trail
A favorite among trail runners looking for a moderate challenge, Hunter Creek Trail is only 15 minutes from downtown Reno. The well-traveled 5.7-mile out-and-back route has lots of climbing on singletrack. All your hard work is rewarded with a beautiful 30-foot waterfall. Park at the Hunter Creek Trailhead on Woodchuck Circle in Reno, Nevada. Find the route map here.

Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
On the northwest end of Reno, you’ll find both paved and dirt paths within Rancho San Rafael Regional Park; an additional 100+ miles of singletrack dirt trails are located on the north side of the McCarran tunnel. There are several parking lots along San Rafael Drive. Hop on the path and choose your own adventure or combine the South Park Loop and Pasture Loop for a 3-mile route. Find the park’s full trail map here.

Steamboat Ditch Trail
This 15.4-mile out-and-back, wide dirt path follows an irrigation ditch through town, passing through Reno’s neighborhoods. Park in either the Horseman’s Park parking lot or the small parking area off Woodchuck Circle just west of Plateau Road. Find the trail map here.

Tahoe East Shore Trail
This gorgeous 3-mile paved, multi-use path runs along Lake Tahoe’s shoreline, from Incline Village to Sand Harbor State Park. Start from this address: 1924 Tahoe Boulevard, Incline Village, Nevada (there’s a parking lot and a public restroom). Find more trail information here.

Tahoe-Pyramid Trail
Once fully developed, this trail will extend 114 miles, connecting Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake following the Truckee River. Depending on what part of the trail you’re on, you may find a mix of pavement, fire road, and singletrack. The section in downtown Reno is paved, and a popular starting point is Idlewild Park (parking lot and public restrooms). Find the downtown Reno section map here and the full trail map here.

Truckee River Trail/Historic Truckee River Bike Path
Formerly the Tahoe-Truckee Toll Road, built in 1860, this paved trail is now used by runners, walkers, and cyclists. The out-and-back route from Truckee to Tahoe City in California runs along the Truckee River and extends about 5 miles one way. There’s not much elevation change, which makes for a nice and easy scenic run. You can even run up the river and float back down! Consider parking on the trail’s southeast end in the 64 Acres Tahoe Rim Trail Trailhead parking lot. From here, cross the bridge over the river to connect to the Truckee River Trail and head west (left). Find the route map here.

As with any running route, take the necessary precautions for a safe run. Whenever possible, run with a buddy. Tell someone you know well where you’re going and when you expect to return, bring your cell phone and an ID, and remain aware of your surroundings.

Read more in 11 Running Safety Tips Every Runner Should Follow.

Back to Top of Article

---

Running Stores in Reno-Tahoe

Reno Running Company
At Reno Running Company, running is viewed as not only a sport but a way of life. Staff members are ready to take you through a full video gait analysis to help you find your next pair of running shoes. Plus, you’ll find the apparel, accessories, and nutrition you need for your adventures on the Reno-Tahoe area trails.
Summit: 13987 South Virginia Street, Reno, Nevada; 775-244-3303
Lakeside: 3438 Lakeside Drive, Reno, Nevada; 775-244-3303
Sparks: 1276 Disc Drive, Sparks, Nevada; 775-244-3303

Alpenglow Sports
You’ll find more than running and hiking gear here. Alpenglow Sports also carries snow sports and camping gear.
415 North Lake Boulevard, Tahoe City, California; 530-583-6917

Tahoe Mountain Sports
In addition to running shoes and apparel, Tahoe Mountain Sports carries a wide range of camping and winter sports gear. The shop also rents gear of all kinds, including shoe spikes for winter running.
11200 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, California; 530-536-5200
10120 Jibboom Street, Truckee, California; 530-536-5200

Back to Top of Article

---

Run Clubs in Reno-Tahoe

We aim to keep this guide updated regularly, but things can change quickly! Before attending a run club on this list, call the associated store or check the group’s social media to confirm the date, time, and location.

Summit Run Club’s Tuesday Runs
When: Tuesdays at 7 p.m.
Distance: Not listed
Starting Point: Sparks Marina; check Instagram for updates

Reno Running Company’s Wednesday Morning Track Workout
When: Wednesdays at 6 a.m.
Distance: Track workout of 3-4 miles
Starting Point: Hub Coffee Roasters at 727 Riverside Drive, Reno, Nevada

Mikkeller Running Club Reno’s Wednesday Runs
When: Most Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.
Distance: Not listed
Starting Point: Rotating locations; check Instagram for updates

Reno Running Company’s Saturday Store Run
When: Saturdays at 8 a.m.
Distance: Varies; all paces welcome; snacks and coffee provided after the run
Starting Point: Reno Running Company’s Sparks store at 1276 Disc Drive, Sparks, Nevada

Summit Run Club’s Saturday Runs
When: Saturdays at 8 a.m.
Distance: Not listed
Starting Point: Location varies; check Instagram for updates

Mikkeller Running Club Reno’s Saturday Runs
When: Most Saturdays at 11 a.m.
Distance: Not listed
Starting Point: Rotating locations; check Instagram for updates

Reno Running Company’s Sunday Store Run
When: Sundays at 8 a.m.
Distance: Varies; all paces welcome; snacks and coffee provided after the run
Starting Point: Reno Running Company’s Reno store at 13987 South Virginia Street, Reno, Nevada

Looking for more groups to run with? Check out Silver State Striders.

Back to Top of Article

---

Destination Races in Reno-Tahoe

Leprechaun Race | March | Reno | 5K
Costumes are encouraged at this St. Patrick’s Day 5K that runs through Reno’s Midtown and Wells Avenue districts. This is a Reno Running Company event.

Biggest Little Half Marathon, 5K 10K | April | Reno | Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
Start and finish near the whale sculpture at City Plaza, then run through downtown Reno and along the Truckee River on this half marathon course. This is a Reno Running Company event.

The Reno-Tahoe Odyssey | May | Reno, Tahoe, Carson City | 178-Mile Relay
A premiere event in the Reno-Tahoe region, this 178-mile team relay explores Reno, Tahoe, and Carson City. The relay includes 36 segments, each about 5 miles long, and teams can have up to 12 members. (Shorter relay race distances of 30 miles and 54 miles are scheduled for the same weekend.) It’s not all running competition here — expect awards for best team name, best vehicle decorations, and best custom-made shirts.

Silver State 50/50 | June | Reno | 50K, 50 Miles, Trail Half Marathon
Silver State’s 50K and 50-mile distances have been running for 40 years and counting! Newer to the event is the half marathon. All race distances take place at Rancho San Rafael Park, with the start and finish located at the Great Basin Adventure area.

Rock Tahoe Half Marathon | June | Tahoe | Half Marathon
Run the east shoreline of Lake Tahoe on this point-to-point half marathon course that finishes near the Nevada-California state line. You’ll have over 800 feet in elevation loss with scenic views along the way before arriving at the finish line party.

Western States Endurance Run | June | Olympic Valley to Auburn, California | 100 Miles
The pinnacle for many trail ultrarunners, Western States is a challenging and mountainous 100-miler. The annual ultra officially began in 1977, and race entrance has been on a lottery system for most years since 2000.

Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs | July | Carson City | 50K, 14-Miler
Due to reconstruction projects, the traditional 100K and 100-mile race distances are not planned for 2025. To replace those race distances are a 50K and 14-miler that start and finish at Western Nevada College in Carson City. Expect beautiful trail views and a great finish line party.

Journal Jog 8K | August | Reno | 8K
“Reno’s oldest footrace” has been running for more than 50 years! Run the fast and flat course through Old Southwest Reno, starting and finishing at Reno High School. Got little ones? Sign up for the stroller division! This is a Reno Running Company event.

Rock Reno Half Marathon, Relay & 5K | October | Reno | Half Marathon, 5K
This point-to-point half marathon takes runners from the Sportsdome in South Reno to downtown Reno’s Greater Nevada Field. Don’t want to run the full 13.1? Teams of two can participate in the relay option. This is a Reno Running Company event.

Dirty Wookie 10K, 5K | October | Reno | 10K, 5K
This Halloween-themed event runs through downtown Reno and finishes at The Brewer’s Cabinet Production Facility. Wear your favorite costume and enjoy music and a free beer at the finish line (21+). This is a Reno Running Company event.

Wobble Before You Gobble 5K, 10K | November | Reno | 10K, 5K
Join Reno’s runners for a Thanksgiving morning tradition. Both race distances run through downtown Reno and along the Truckee River. The event is organized by the all-women Desert Sky Adventures team.

Looking for more trail races? Check out the Tahoe Trail Running Series.

Back to Top of Article

---

After a Run: Where to Eat in Reno-Tahoe

Coffeebar — Inspired by Italy’s coffee bar culture, this shop offers delicious coffee, lattes, teas, and pastries. You’ll also find a menu of breakfast and lunch items to fuel your adventures. Coffeebar has locations across Reno and Truckee — perfect stops before or after you hit the trails.
Mt. Rose Street: 682 Mt Rose Street, Reno, Nevada; 775-800-1090
McCarran: 9620 South McCarran Boulevard, Reno, Nevada; 775-384-2671
Downtown Truckee: 10120 Jibboom Street, Truckee, California; 530-587-2000
Northstar: 3001 Northstar Drive, Truckee, California; 530-587-2000
Additional locations in Reno, Truckee, and more.

Eclipse Pizza Company — Local, gourmet pizza shop with unique pizza-topping combinations, such as the Ironman with sausage, pineapple, jalapeño, sun-dried tomatoes, and pesto. Vegan and gluten-free options are available, and don’t forget to ask about the secret menu! Fun fact: Most of the staff here are runners and triathletes. Eclipse Pizza is a short drive from the Hunter Creek and Steamboat Ditch trails.
3950 Mayberry Drive, Reno, Nevada; 775-747-4343

Great Basin Brewing Co. — Nevada’s oldest-operating brewery offers a mouthwatering menu of hearty dishes — think burgers, smoked pork, and pizzas — that pair perfectly with the lineup of award-winning beers. It’s a great stop after an all-day adventure on the trails.
Reno: 5525 South Virginia Street, Reno, Nevada; 775-284-7711
Sparks: 846 Victorian Avenue, Sparks, Nevada; 775-355-7711
Carson City: 302 North Carson Street, Carson City, Nevada; 775-885-7307
Minden: 1573 US Highway 395, Minden, Nevada; 775-375-0486

Great Full Gardens — Expect to find wholesome meals and specialty drinks here. Choose from a huge array of dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. The Midtown location is just down the street from the Truckee River/Tahoe Pyramid Trail and Rancho San Rafael Park. The South location is a short drive from Galena Creek.
Midtown: 555 South Virginia Street, Reno, Nevada; 775-324-2013
South: 748 South Meadows Parkway, Reno, Nevada; 775-324-2016
The Kitchen: 5220 Longley Lane, Reno, Nevada; 775-384-6420
Sparks: 1330 Scheels Avenue, Sparks, Nevada; 775-440-1663

Hub Coffee Roasters — Find delicious coffee, lattes, and pastries for a light post-run snack. The Riverside location is just steps away from the Truckee River, where the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail runs through.
Riverside: 727 Riverside Drive, Reno, Nevada; 775-453-1911
Meadowcreek: 15425 Wedge Parkway, Reno, Nevada; 775-622-0137
Reno Experience District: 2020 Red Drive, Reno, Nevada; 775-686-6729

The Lodge Bar & Patio — A cute bar and patio at the base of Mt Rose and Galena Creek. The Lodge serves wine, beer, cocktails, and charcuterie! It’s the perfect place to stop and mingle after a fun run on trails.
17025 Mt Rose Highway, Reno, Nevada; 775-433-1074

Piñon Bottle Co. — Fantastic hangout for a post-run refreshment. Choose from a large selection of taps, bottles, and cans. Piñon Bottle Co. has a great vibe and both locations are close to trails.
Midtown: 777 South Center Street, Reno, Nevada; 775-376-1211
South: 15415 Wedge Parkway, Reno, Nevada; 775-657-9182

T’s Mesquite Rotisserie —This small Mexican restaurant in Incline Village is just a five-minute drive from the Tahoe East Shore Trail. T’s specializes in fire-roasted meats for their tacos and burritos. This place is a true local gem. Vegetarian options are available. (Cash only!)
901 Tahoe Boulevard, Incline Village, Nevada; 775-831-2832

Two Chicks — This breakfast and lunch restaurant is sure to hit the spot after an early morning run. Expect elevated comfort food with fresh ingredients, delicious coffee, and a range of boozy beverages. The Midtown location is near the Truckee River, where the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail runs through, and only a few miles from Rancho San Rafael Park.
Midtown: 752 South Virginia, Reno, Nevada; 775-323-0600
5851 South Virginia, Reno, Nevada; 775-323-0600

Back to Top of Article

---

More travel plans? Check out our other City Guides.

---