159. RENO TRUCKEE RIVER TRAIL, RENO, NEVADA

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Explore this 3.5-mile out-and-back, total 7-mile trail near Reno, Nevada. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 2 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, road biking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.

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Downtown Reno's updated Riverwalk area – located along the Truckee River between Arlington Avenue and Lake Street – draws art lovers and gourmands alike with its collection of galleries and restaurants. You'll find most of these destinations between West 2nd Street and the river's north bank; Island Avenue (on the river's south back), offers several more attractions to explore. Additional eateries and shops line California Avenue, often called Cal Ave., about five blocks south of the Truckee. Not sure where to begin? Tag along on a Wine Walk. This event – hosted by the Riverwalk Merchants Association for $30 per person — takes place the third Saturday of the month from 2 to 5 p.m. and includes wine tastings at more than a dozen bars, restaurants and specialty stores.

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Recent visitors frequently described this area as an attractive, pleasant reprieve from the casinos (especially during the fall and spring as it can get hot in summer) and highly recommend it for those traveling with kids. Visitors generally appreciate the wide range of dining options as well as the outdoor entertainment. Some note that homeless people congregate in the area.

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You're free to stroll the Riverwalk at any time of day for no cost. You'll find plenty of public and metered parking around the district, but if you have to park in the nearby parking garage at First and Sierra streets, you can get your ticket validated by select Riverwalk businesses. The district is also accessible via Reno's public transportation system.

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