Cross Peak

Cross Peak is a quiet summit above the Caughlin Ranch neighborhood of Reno that offers a great vista point with panoramic views at the top.

Beginning in Caughlin Ranch, the trail traces a paved neighborhood multi use path that is a popular dog walking trail. After passing through a tunnel underneath a road, the paved path parallels some homes as it climbs for a short distance, eventually veering off over a bridge across Alum Creek. At this point, a single track dirt path continues up, following Alum Creek upstream, eventually leaving the neighborhood behind and heading into Reno's arid tree lined canyons. Alum Creek falls in a series of small cascades, during the summer months hikers can dip their hands in the water to cool off. 

The single track trail maintains a steady uphill grade with the trail climbing 600' over its 1.4 mile course. Most of the climbing comes at a fork in the trail where the path leaves the creekside and heads up the hill. Some slick dirt slopes eventually leads to a collection of boulders which mark the top of Cross Peak. Several metal installations and a geo cache stand like sentinals at the top. The peak feels far enough removed from the city of offer a gentle breath of fresh air, while near enough to take in the lights if you're lucky enough to be up here near dusk.

From here, retrace your path back to the trailhead.

Parking is along the shoulder of the road in the Caughlin Ranch neighborhood, where the Cross Peak trail intersects with a series of other neighborhood trails, including the Steamboat Ditch Trail, in case you're looking to explore more or add some extra distance. There are no bathrooms or water at the trailhead or along the hike.