Phillip Annie Callahan Park- A Close Getaway Within Arms Reach

15960 Callahan Road

Reno, NV 89511

Park Ranger Office: 

(775) 849-2511

Website

Phillip Annie Callahan Park is a hidden gem tucked away in a serene forest next to Mt. Rose Highway. I stumbled upon this park while searching for family-friendly spots to enjoy during the summer. I couldn’t believe such a beautiful place had remained a secret for so long. Over the years I’ve been visiting, it’s always been a low-key and peaceful retreat, likely because many people head straight to the nearby Galena Regional Park instead.

Although it’s on the smaller side, the park is packed with charm. It features a pavilion, limited paved pathways, two play structures, some grassy areas, and a handful of picnic tables. 

A lovely creek runs alongside the park, providing a refreshing alternative to swimming, especially during those hot summer days.  One of my family's favorite activities is bringing along floating toys like rubber ducks or toy boats and watching them float down the creek. 

Shade is abundant here, and there’s a short loop trail perfect for beginner hikers, all while being serenaded by the soothing sounds of the creek. There’s truly nothing better than hiking in the shade with the gentle sound of water nearby.

To access the short loop, head past the end of the paved path into the dirt area and towards the forest. Keep going until you find a bridge, then turn right onto the bridge (picture) that leads back to Callahan Park. The trail ends at the parking lot for the Galena Creek Trail, which is just a short walk from the park.  The short loop is simple, short, and sweet.

This charming park is a go-to for summer fun, hiking, picnicking, and small gatherings. 

Access Galena Creek Trail from the park. 4.7 mile Out and Back. 774 ft. elevation gain.

History 

Phillip and Annie Callahan Park is a hidden gem honoring the Callahan family, who donated 25 acres for its creation. The park's history dates back to Nevada’s early settlement, particularly during the Comstock Lode boom in nearby Virginia City. Matthew Callahan arrived in 1863 from England, establishing a brickyard that supplied bricks for significant local structures. When demand for bricks declined, the family shifted to dairy farming in Galena, producing a variety of crops and fruits.

Phil Callahan, Matthew’s son, helped establish a school in Galena using materials from their land. The historic Galena Creek Schoolhouse, now part of the park and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was once home to Nevada's famous poet Joanne de Longchamps. Today, as you explore the park, you can appreciate its serene beauty while reflecting on its rich history.

Notes

-Beautiful golden foliage in the fall

-Ample shade in the summer

-Small play structure is shaded; the larger one has partial shade, with swings for both big and small kids

-Wildflowers & wildlife

-Ideal for picnics and photo shoots

-The downward slope pathway next to the parking lot is a favorite spot for kids to ride their plasma cars & bikes

-Horse and dog-friendly, with poop bags available at the parking lot

-Mountain biking paths and horseshoe pits available

-The pavilion includes a BBQ pit and is available on a first-come, first-served basis

-Water fountain and benches available throughout the park

-Download the AllTrails app for detailed reviews, trail information, photos, and directions to Galena Creek Trail. The app also helps navigate so you won’t get lost.

-While there are no restrooms at the park, you can find a porta-potty at the Galena Creek Trailhead, just a two-minute walk toward Mt. Rose Highway. 

Categorized under Parks and Playgrounds, Family Friendly Hiking and Picnic Spots

Brown's Creek Loop Trail- A Hike with some Breathtaking Views

3584-3694 Joy Lake Road

Reno, NV 89511

Directions

AllTrails Map

***Trail currently closed due to Davis Fire***

Brown's Creek Snapshot

If you’re looking for a beautiful outdoor escape near Reno, Brown's Creek Trail is the place to be. This scenic hike features stunning views, vibrant wildflowers, and the soothing sounds of the creek. It’s perfect for families and anyone who loves nature. With its diverse terrain and breathtaking surroundings, it’s a rewarding adventure that showcases the beauty of our area and creates unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.

Moderate

4.8 mi. loop

2hr 25mins. estimated time

I'm always on the lookout for hikes near Reno that are beautiful, and since my kids were getting more skilled and interested in hitting the trails, I decided to push our limits with a longer hike. Usually, we stick to 2-mile trails, so tackling 4.8 miles felt like a bit of a stretch with a 5, 6, and 1-year-old in tow. But if there's one thing I've learned in life, it's that we humans are capable of so much more than we think.

The first part of the trail, before you reach the loop, weaves through the woods with a gentle uphill slope (over about a mile). You’ll hit the first fork, which is definitely worth a stop—the Vista (just a couple of minutes away). Here, you’ll find a bench, breathtaking views, and an educational sign about a former family attraction called Sundown Town. The second fork marks the beginning of the loop (not far from the Vista). If you take the left side, you’ll tackle the steeper part of the loop; opt for the right if you want a bit more of a challenge.

There are three small bridges that cross the creek. We took a break at the first bridge so the kids could dip their toes in and have some fun. It was so nice, with plenty of trees providing shade. After crossing the second bridge, you’ll arrive at the third fork. We took a wrong turn at this fork, heading straight into the “National Forest” (the loop sign was a bit farther up and faced the wrong way) and ended up hiking an extra 1.5 miles.  Once we realized we were off track, we retraced our steps and found the sign. Instead of going straight, make sure to head upward and to the right to stay on course. After the third fork, we crossed the final bridge and made our way back to the parking lot.

In total, we covered about 8.5 miles, and it was such an empowering and rewarding journey. My family and I met plenty of friendly dogs, admired stunning wildflowers, and encountered many kind people along the way.

We set off on what turned out to be one of the most beautiful, challenging, and rewarding hikes. The trail was filled with stunning views and varied terrains. Wandering through the Galena forest and crossing tranquil Brown's Creek was incredibly refreshing. I can't recommend this hike enough.

Notes

-Ever since getting lost, I make sure to use AllTrails to track my hikes.  

-Dogs, horses, and cyclists are allowed on the trail.  

-Enter the Galena Estates to find the trail entrance parking lot on the left side of Joy Lake Road.  

-The trail entrance is across the street-

-Bring plenty of water

-If hiking with kids, pack lots of snacks. I also brought a portable toilet for the kids, along with sunscreen & hand sanitizer.  

-There’s plenty of shade throughout the hike, but there are also exposed areas.  

-Have your phone handy for emergencies.  

-Alcohol pads and band-aids for unexpected scrapes

-Good footwear highly recommended  

-hiking poles may come in handy for those looking for more stability

-lots of vegetation, lizards, and insects to look at.  

 Pick right side for more of a challenge to go up steep left side at end of loop. Left side to go down steeper side.

Categorized Under Family Friendly Hikes and Scenic Overlooks

*Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own.

Photography 

© Katherine Fung,

All rights reserved.

Hidden Gem - Crystal Peak Park, Verdi.

561 Crystal Park Road

Verdi, NV 89439

Park Ranger Office: 

(775) 828-6612

Website 
Trail Map

One of the things I love most about living in Reno is how close we are to breathtaking natural beauty, and Crystal Peak Park is the perfect example of that. Just 10 miles from Reno, this gorgeous park is tucked between mountains and the Truckee River, making it a great little escape.

What Makes This Park Special

-Shade from beautiful, tall trees

-A scenic 0.5-mile nature trail that loops alongside the Truckee River

-Two fishing ponds (stocked with Lahontan Cutthroat Trout)

-Boulders for climbing adventures

-Grassy picnic areas with BBQ facilities

-Restrooms 

-Interpretive signs with cool facts about the area

-Nearby trails perfect for hikers and cyclists

From 1923 to 1938, Crystal Peak Park in Verdi was home to the Verdi Glen Resort, a beloved stop for commuters back in the day. Today, you can still explore remnants of that history, including pieces of the Verdi Lumber Company, which started operations here way back in 1860. The sawmill played a major role in helping build Virginia City and the railroad tracks that connected the region, adding a rich historical layer to your visit.

But history isn't the only draw. Crystal Peak Park is also a must-visit for anyone with a love for rockhounding. The park, named after the majestic peak towering behind it, is a haven for quartz hunters. If you're ready to dig in, bring a shovel—there are quartz deposits waiting to be uncovered. For the adventurous, the peak itself is about 11 miles up a one-way dirt road with some incredible scenic pull-over spots to soak in the view.

I’ll be honest, my attempt to reach the peak in a minivan was... a bit of an adventure. The last three miles are full of deep ruts and uneven terrain, so if you're planning to tackle this route, an off-roading vehicle or SUV is the way to go. While I didn't make it to the top, the drive was still full of breathtaking views and the thrill of the journey.

If you’re lucky enough to reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. 

Whether you’re here for a bit of history, an adventure in quartz hunting, or just a peaceful day outdoors by the river, Crystal Peak Park has something for everyone. The combination of rich history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities makes it a true gem just a short distance from Reno. 

Notes

-Paved parking lot with easy access to the main trailhead

-Group areas available on a first-come, first-served basis—no reservations needed

-Ideal for family outings, nature lovers, and history buffs alike

Categorized under "Family Friendly Hikes, Picnic Spots, Parks and Playgrounds"