South Loop Trail

The South Loop Trail is one of several designated trails inside Washoe Lake State Park. While portions of this trail overlap with the North Loop and East Loop trails, generally the designated trails in the park can be poorly marked and confusing with the number of forks and other paths. If you are planning to stick to this trail, it is best to just look for the markers signing the intersection points, or come prepared. On the plus side, this area of Washoe Lake State Park is generally flat, so it is possible to just wander down dirt paths but still see where you are and where you are trying to go. While walking, take in the views of the Sierra to the west, particularly Slide Mountain, which dominates the northwest skyline, and the Virginia Range slopes to the immediate east.

Many of these trails are maintained with equestrians in mind, and the wide, soft dirt tracks here may add an element of difficulty for hikers, despite the flat terrain. There is no shade anywhere along this hike, so come prepared for the intense sunny afternoons. There are bathrooms, trash and water in the trailhead parking area.