Ash Canyon Creek Trail

The Ash Canyon Creek Trail is one of the network of hiking and mountain biking trails on Carson City's west side.

As the trail follows the stream - even crossing it on small wooden foot bridges on a couple occasion - this trail has the benefit of being slightly cooler and offering a bit more shade than the other trails in the area, particularly in the lower elevation sections.

Beginning at the small parking area, descend immediately toward the creek. The water tends to be hidden by the thick brush for most of its course, though there are numerous small use paths leading to the cool water. At just one fifth of a mile uptrail is a small waterfall.

The trail tends to follow sandy single track, and can be rocky, or even muddy or icy in sections, depending on recent conditions. Several large pine trees sit along the trail, offering nice spots to take refuge in the much appreciated shade. The path rises just under 500 feet in elevation over just over a mile before it ends at a fork with the Ash To Kings Trail.

Those looking to pack on more distance can continue to explore the trail network at the end of the Creek Trail, and can create a loop path returning to the parking area. However you can also turn around and enjoy the downhill slope along the creek for the return as well.

There are no amenities of any kind at the trailhead or along the hike.