Mt. Rose, NV

 Mt. Rose (10,776’), NV

August 31, 2010

10.6 miles RT

Elevation gain – 1,835’

*Click to view large.

View of Lake Tahoe over Incline Village from SR431

From Incline Village, take SR 431(Mt. Rose Highway) to Reno. The trailhead is located in the parking lot “Mount Rose Summit”, which is the top of the mountain pass along SR 431. The highway runs for about 20 miles between Incline Village and Reno. The Mount Rose Summit Parking Area is at the elevation of 8,900' and the sign says “Highest Year-round Sierra Pass”. The parking lot is big enough for many cars. There are restrooms, brochures, and trail maps. The trail begins right behind this kiosk. The trail is well marked all along to the summit. The first couple of miles are relatively leveled and not much grade. A spectacular view of Lake Tahoe and meadows along SR 431 opens up during the first mile or so. Then, you continue the trek into tree lines with some rock and bolder formations. In about two miles there is a big waterfall. If you need to refill water, this is a good place. Hike along the meadow after the waterfall, and the trail begins climb up steep to the saddle of Mt. Rose. Around 9,500’, descending about 1 mile along the west side of the mountain, there is a sign pointing toward the final stretch to summit. Take a little break there if you must because it’s the “thin” air that could get you near 10,000’. The final ascent to the summit becomes a little rocky and sandy.  Make firm steps as ascend, and suck in deep the “thin air” above 10,000’. The summit awaits you to see the spectacular vistas of Lake Tahoe and surrounding mountains as a reward of your determination!

                     The meadow and a water fall are about a half way point.  Follow the sign to Mt. Rose summit.

        The last stretch to the summit is a little challenging.  It takes more work to ascend on sandy trail.

View of Lake Tahoe from the summit - 10,776'.

 

View west....Sierra Nevada range, Donner Lake, I-80 and Castle Peak are visible.

 View south....Carson range and Freel Peak are seen.

 

 Reno is down below and Nevada mountains in background.

Panoramic view south of Mt. Rose summit.  Tahoe Sierra in front, Carson Rage and Freel Peak are seen along Lake Tahoe's east shore(left), and Mt. Tallac and Crystal Range/Desolation Wilderness on the south shore across the lake.

View north of the summit - Sunflower Mountain to the left, Reno down below and Nevada mountains in skyline.