Featured Fall Hike

Oxbow Nature Study Area is a beautiful spot for fall. This small park is a wildlife conservancy and a great place to see a variety of birds year-round. The park features one 0.9 mile trail that loops around an oxbow, dense greenery (or orange and yellow-ery), and the Truckee River. Beautiful boardwalks extend over waterways and above the willows to allow excellent vistas. But what makes this a spectacular place for fall are the cottonwood trees lining the river's shore. These giants are related to aspen trees and turn a stunning gold through October. Meander the trail, then choose a bench by the river to set down and create.

Hike Details:

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance: 0.9 mile loop

Elevation Gain: 10 feet

Trail Type: Mixed, dirt and boardwalk

Amenities: Year-round restrooms, benches

Favorite Species to Spot

Image by iNaturalist user

Visit the iNaturalist link below to see what birds, insects, mammals, and plants are commonly found at Oxbow Nature Study Area during the fall.

Directions

Take the Keystone exit on I-80. Head south, then make a right onto 2nd Street. Follow straight and continue onto Dickerson Road. The road dead ends at the park.