Sunday, November 22, 2020

Chocolate Nugget Candy Factory- A Sweet Escape & Bite into History


Two Locations:
*611 US-395, New Washoe City, NV 89704
Directions
(775) 849-0841


(775) 246-5500


Growing up with Willy Wonka, I had high expectations of what a chocolate factory should be and after my first visit to this shop, I was not disappointed.  It's been a little over 8 years that I've been making memories here with my family.

There's nothing better than consuming guilty pleasures that you know have been made fresh with simple, fine ingredients, from a place that pays attention to all details.

The Chocolate Nugget Factory is more than just a chocolate shop.  It's the success of a man driven by the want to support his family while providing good quality treats for all to enjoy.  

The Chocolate Nugget Factory delivers on all levels, with treats that you love and new ones to discover, and customer service that never fails.

It's a unique shop with a "Wild West" feel that you won't find just anywhere and I always leave happy and eager for my next visit.

Notes:
-Apple Pay/Samsung Pay for contact free transactions.  You can download these apps on your phone and connect them to your cards.
-Local family owned business. Visit their site for their amazing history.  The magic all started in 1936.
-Wood Porch out front with tables and seating
-Nice place for pictures in front of tractors and porch
-Check website for occasional specials
-The owner is constantly keeping up with the times: renovations, payment methods, deliveries, Instagram Announcements
-They offer pick-up and delivery.  Call in for pick-up orders. Online orders are shipped through USPS.


Must Try Treats
*Caramel Popcorn is so fresh, delicious, and addicting.  It's pretty sweet, great for those with sweet tooths
*Roasted nuts are always fresh and taste like the holidays
*All of their taffies are true to their flavors, great in texture with just the right amount of sweetness *Chocolate-dipped pretzels are super crunchy, well-balanced, and not too sweet.  
*Peanut Brittle is amazingly thin and fresh: a brittle like no other that will not break your teeth. 
*Their fudge is so delicious and always made fresh.  Chocolate walnut, divinity (like marshmallow + nuts), peanut butter chocolate are all so drool worthy.
*Chocolate dipped ice cream.  Dipped in real chocolate and topped with toppings of your choosing


Notes
-They have another location at the bottom of the Virginia City Foothills, where all of the candy is manufactured.  Viewing window available where they make candy. There you will also find stellar service.
-free fudge samples
-The drive on 395 from Reno to the shop is scenic and relaxing.  Alternatively, you can take side streets. Take South Virginia all the way down toward Carson City and you will find it on your right.
-I love going to Davis Creek Regional Park and Bower's Mansion nearby for a nice walk or hike before visiting the factory.  Washoe Lake State Park is also nearby.  
-If you drive around the Washoe Lake/Little Washoe area, you can find wild mustangs and farm animals

categorized under "Good Eats"

Monday, November 9, 2020

Take a Short and Scenic Hike to a Stunning Waterfall on Mt. Rose Summit Trail


(about 30 mins. from Reno)


When I think about why I love living in Reno, Mt. Rose Summit Trail is definitely near the top of the list. This 11.8-mile loop trail offers stunning views and fun for every skill level.

With little effort and a fairly flat path (aside from the beginning), you’ll wind through the woods and reach beautiful Galena Falls in just about 2.5 miles. The view of the meadow is a bonus. Because it takes only a small amount of effort to get to this gorgeous waterfall, this part of the hike tends to get busy.

I’ve only made it to the falls, but from what I’ve read in other reviews, the hike becomes more challenging from there, with the last 1.5 miles being the toughest. Still, many find the hike rewarding, thanks to the breathtaking views of the Lake Tahoe Basin, Washoe Valley, and Reno.

Trail Overview
Best used: May–October  
Distance: 11.8-mile loop  
Duration: 4.5–6 hours round trip  
Elevation: 10,778 ft. Be mindful of altitude sickness, especially above 8,000 feet. 


Trail Conditions
Shade: Lots of shade is found at the beginning throughout the journey to the waterfall
Terrain: The trail starts fairly flat (except for the beginning), but the last 1.5 miles are suppose to be more challenging.  
Restrooms: Located at trailhead parking lot. Open seasonally.

Recommendations
Wind Protection: The summit is always windy; bring a windbreaker, no matter the season.  
Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunblock. The higher you are, the more intense the sun is. 
Hydration & Snacks: Bring plenty of water and snacks—there are picnic opportunities throughout the hike.  
Walking Aids: Many hikers find walking poles helpful for the rocky sections and the ascent.

Seasonal Tips
Crowds: To beat the crowds, go on a weekday or early on weekends during summer. Parking lots fill up fast.  
Winter Activities: In winter, people love to sled and play in the snow near the parking lot; the slopes are great.  
Wildlife Viewing: In mid to late August, you might catch the amazing Monarch Butterfly migration.  
Fall Beauty: The trail is beautiful in the fall and vibrant in spring and summer, with lots of wildlife and wildflowers.

Nearby 
Tahoe Meadows: If you’re looking for a lovely flat hike nearby, check out the Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop trail just down the road to the left (you’ll see the parking lot). The Tahoe Meadows South Trailhead is just a minute away and offers more hiking options.

Winter Hiking  
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular activities here in the winter.  Proper gear is essential. Be sure to check the weather in advance and dress appropriately. Serious winter hikers should use an app to help keep them on track, even without reception.


If you want to see an amazing video that does this trail justice, check out this video made by Supai Adventures.  You can even run into butterflies!!!



Right Next to Mt. Rose Summit Trailhead Parking Lot

Categorized under "Family Friendly Hikes