Picking out a hiking trail that the whole family can conquer and enjoy is no easy task, but it’s far from impossible. We consider ourselves lucky to live in a state that’s filled with beginner-friendly trails, like the easy-breezy Galena Falls Trail in the Mt. Rose Wilderness. This simple hike through the gorgeous wilderness is popular for hikers of ALL skill levels, including families with little ones. Best of all, the waterfall at the end is the ultimate reward for completing this lovely hike. Check it out:
Hiding in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is an awesome hiking trail that boasts everything you need for an easy but memorable outdoor adventure with the family. Leading you straight to Galena Falls, this trail is definitely worth adding to your bucket list.
The 4.8-mile out-and-back trail is a popular adventure in this area, and for good reason. It's relatively short, has little elevation gain, and it boasts tremendous views of not only Galena Falls but also the entire Mount Rose Wilderness and Lake Tahoe.
The trailhead can be found at the top of the Mt. Rose Highway and is the same as the summit hike for Mt. Rose. After departing from the trail's parking lot, you'll soon be treated to spectacular views of Tahoe Meadows and beyond.
There's a small ascent at the start of the trail but it's nothing even the most casual hiker won't be able to handle. After approximately .5-miles, you'll reach an especially breathtaking view of Lake Tahoe in the distance.
You'll continue on the mostly flat trail for the next two miles while completely surrounded by pure alpine beauty. Keep an eye out for the wide variety of wildflowers, lodgepole and whitebark pine trees, and unique rock formations. This is high-altitude scenery at its finest!
At last, you'll reach the base of Galena Falls after 2.5-miles of hiking through the stunning Mt. Rose Wilderness. The falls aren't massive, but it still boasts an impressive cascade of roughly 70-feet and it's a delightful sight at the end of this picturesque trail.
The best adventures are the ones you can enjoy with your fellow family and friends. Consider the trail to Galena Falls for your next outing and check out the trail map here.
