When the snow starts falling, it can be more difficult to access hiking trails with the pups. Sure, you could pull out your snowshoes or touring gear, but sometimes you just want something convenient. Below I’ve listed a few of my favorite places to walk the dogs in the winter months.
Martis Dam is my go-to for taking the dogs out on a long walk. Located off of 267 between the Truckee airport and Northstar, Martis dam is a paved road that is closed to cars in the winter, making it the perfect place for your dogs to get some exercise. Parking is limited meaning that the road typically isn’t crowded and your dogs can get some much needed off leash time. In total the road is about 2.5 miles from the winter parking lot (you can park further down the road in the summer) to the dam, making for a nice 5-mile roundtrip walk. As a bonus, the road also has a dog bag station and dumpster for picking up after your pets.
Located just up the road and across 267 from Martis Dam, this 4.5 mile loop is a great place to bring your dogs. Although best used from May – October, because the trail is pretty flat and heavily trafficked, walking the dogs here usually isn’t too difficult in the winter months. The trail features several bridges, boardwalks, and other beautiful scenery, making it an enjoyable walk for both you and the pups. Similar to Martis Dam, parking at the start of the Martis Creek trail is limited, meaning the trail isn’t usually crowded. Dog poop bags are also provided at the beginning of the trail just in case you forget your bags at home.
The legacy trail is a paved path that runs along the Truckee River starting at the Truckee River Regional Park. What’s great about the legacy trail is that it is plowed all winter, making for a reliable place to walk the dogs even after a snow storm. The entire trail is about 9 miles (out and back) and you can choose to walk your dogs the entire way or cut it short. There are also a number of dog stations and trash can scattered along the trail, so you never have to worry about forgetting a poop bag.
Trout Creek Trail is a paved 3-mile out and back trail starting right in downtown Truckee (note: you can also access this trail at the opposite end in Tahoe Donner). If starting from the downtown side, it’s uphill on the way out and downhill on the way back. This is a beautiful, fairly easy walk that cuts behind the Coyote Moon golf course. This path is plowed in the winter, but because there is quite a bit of shade on the path, make sure to throw on some quality shoes with good traction (I opt for my hiking boots).
Where do you like to bring your pups in Truckee? Let me know in the comments!
Tahoe Meg 