The returning runner…
Act 71 – Washoe County Area Trail Review #1 – Brown’s Creek (2.5 stars)
I was just getting started and already feeling a bit “rough”. Right from the start the trail headed steeply up – switch backing for the first mile or so, then less switchbacks but still fairly steeply up until about 1.3 miles in. Hitting the junction for the loop portion at 1.4 miles, I picked to head right. An old habit from racing on the track in a counter-clockwise direction… We finally descended downward toward Brown’s Creek but was surprised by the lack of tree cover. Hadn’t thought this through – the southern portion of the route had been severely impacted by the Davis Creek Fire a couple of years before. Pine stands were completely charred which left just golden grass reflecting the rapidly increasing heat back on us.
To Beau’s relief, we finally got to the first creek crossing (and a welcome cooldown) at 1.9 miles. From there, we climbed up the valley above the watercourse but then paralleled the stream until crossing again at 2.9 miles. The guidebook exaggerated a bit – mentioning several creek crossings. But, in reality, the second crossing location had two short wooden bridges crossing the braided stream just twenty yards apart. So… in reality just two cool-down spots for Beau. From there, we closed the loop and after clearing a short rise (with a great view) headed back down the zig-zag stretch to the north. Surprisingly, although it had felt pretty steep going up, the zig-zags kept the grade gradual enough that I could open it up a bit on the return downhill for completion of the 4.8 mile route.
Mark’s Brown’s Creek Tail Rating – 2.5 Stars
Factors:
Parking – Slightly odd with the parking on the east side of the road and the trail starting on the west but the low traffic volume on the road mitigates this issue.
Restrooms – None.
Trail surface – Narrow trail and a bit rocky.
Terrain- A good hill workout!
Dog friendly – No issue with Beau on the trail and a good flowing stream around the 1.9 and 2.9 mile marks (the trail layout means you hit water at these spots regardless of which direction you take the loop).
Aesthetics/other factors – A pretty view from the highpoint located about 1.3 miles in but further south the scorched forest and very little shade are negatives.
Additional Information: https://www.washoecounty.gov/parks/trails/images/Truckee%20Meadows%20Trails%20Guide
Photo: Unfortunately, the charred southern portions of the trail route.