This trail system offers two trailheads, beautiful terrain, and incredible views. Easily accessible just southwest of Reno, the Jones/Whites/Thomas Creek Trail System is a lovely place to get into the trees and get big views of Reno, Washoe Valley, and Mt. Rose.
Jones Whites Creek Loop
The Jones Whites Creek Loop is the more difficult of the two trails and we do not recommend it for beginner horses or riders. If you ride the trail clockwise, as most do, you will begin with a bit of elevation gain. After a good climb, the trail evens out and crosses into the Mt. Rose Wilderness. You can veer off onto the Church’s Pond trail spur for a quick out and back or continue through the wilderness to make a 9.2 mile loop. The loop trail contains some very technical sections, including big water crossings and narrow trail with sharp dropoffs. This is a challenging, but beautiful ride through tall pines and fir trees, mountain mahogany, manzanita, and more. It alternates between shaded tree coverage and exposed areas. The views are top-notch.
Thomas Creek Trail
The Thomas Creek Trail is far less technical and more popular with equestrians. It is mostly single-track but does follow and intersect with a Forest Service road that can also be ridden. There are some small water crossings. You can do an out-and-back or take the Dry Pond Trail spur. If you do, there is a bridge crossing. (The bridge is rated for horses.) You can also make a loop this way, by coming back through the Whites Creek Trailhead and along the main road.
This whole area is very popular for hiking and biking so you can expect all the trails to be quite busy, especially on weekends. There are also a lot of off-leash dogs so be prepared for that. The Jones Whites Creek Loop Trail sees much less traffic in the wilderness area side.
These trails are best ridden in the non-snowy months, late spring to late fall. In the spring, there is a lot of grass, wildflowers, and water, so there are also ticks! Be sure to spray and tick check yourself and your horse. In the fall, the colors are outstanding.
Getting Here
Thomas Creek Trailhead:
Where to Park: Drive through the neighborhood until the pavement ends and turns to dirt. There is a medium-sized parking lot with restrooms and a hitching post.
Jones-Whites Creek Trailhead:
Where to Park: There is a big area marked for horse trailers, with room for several rigs. Please do not leave manure in the parking lot. There are bathrooms and trash here.
Trail Maps
