If you’re a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic Lord of the Rings saga, you might think that Nevada isn’t a likely place to find your own lush “Middle Earth.”

Take a visit to the Toiyabe National Forest, which covers much of Nevada and a small area of Eastern California. The Toiyabe is the largest national forest in the lower 48 states. Taking a hike on this one trail conjures up the feeling of walking through elven forests and on green bobbit hills.

Mount Rose Trail is a 10.6-mile loop trail.
Mount Rose Trail
Patrick Alexander/Flickr
It is located northeast of Lake Tahoe and Incline Village and southwest of Reno.
The trail is accessible all year round, but March through October are the best months to visit.
Mount Rose Trail
H L./Yelp
Visitors in the winter months enjoy tackling the trail by cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
In the spring, the lush green hills beneath the peaks are carpeted with colorful wildflowers.
Mount Rose Trail
Mark Taylor/Flickr

Mount Rose is the second tallest peak in the Lake Tahoe area.
Mount Rose Trail
Vanessa G./Yelp
The hike is not considered as difficult as many other peak hikes in the area. This is no doubt due to the beautiful surroundings, as well as the relatively flat terrain up til the waterfall. Many hikers only do the first 2-1/2 miles to the waterfall and then turn around.
The waterfall is a stunning site, like the entrance to Tolkien's fabled Rivendell.
Ken Lund/Flickr
The falls are known as the Galena Falls, named so because the waters from nearby Galena Creek feed into it.
The base of the falls is the perfect spot to relax and take in the natural beauty while fueling up with a snack (or if you're a hobbit, a second or third breakfast).
Mount Rose Trail
H L./Yelp

If you decide to continue on past the waterfall, the trail will become increasingly steeper and more challenging as you go.
J Brew/Flickr

Hikers who make the entire trek to the top will marvel at 360 degree views from the summit of Reno, Carson City, and Lake Tahoe. You'll truly feel as if you're in a magical, otherworldly place!
Mount Rose Trail
Vanessa G./Yelp
To reach the Mount Rose Trail, take US 395 south from Reno, which ends at the Mt. Rose Highway (NV431). Take a right and follow the signs to Lake Tahoe/Incline Village. Follow the twisting road for several miles. You will pass both the Galena Creek Regional Park and the Mount Rose Ski Area until you reach the parking for the Mount Rose trailhead. There is no fee to park and permits are not required if you are hiking in and out for the day.

Tolkien fans, have you found other “magical” places in Nevada that transport you to your own “Middle Earth?” Share in the comments section!

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