Ballardini Ranch Loop Trails

The trails at Ballardini Ranch are a relatively new trail system in the southwestern hills of Reno. Graded with hard packed dirt and gravel, the area is a popular destination for everyone from families out on a walk, to trail runners and mountain bikers.

The loop trails are the easy option, and can be tailored to fit the desired distance for those out on the trails. For those looking for a more challenging hike or ride that's rewarded with some epic views over the whole Reno area, consider heading out on the Ballardini Ranch - Timberline Connector Trail. 

The lower 0.6-mile loop boasts views of the custom luxury housing built in the area, resembling the desert developments in Sedona. This loop has a very mild grade, with about 80 feet of total elevation gain. The lower loop has one trailhead at the lower end of the parking lot and one at the upper end.

An upper loop covers 1.7 miles of ground, with a lot more variation in topography: paralleling a seasonal stream, crossing a gully on a wooden footbridge, and heading up to an overlook point with views over the area. This upper loop passes a dirt ranch road that can be taken as a shortcut. Both loops meet at a single point, making it easy to make a figure 8 of the trails. The upper loop has about 270 feet of total elevation gain over its course.

Those looking to cover both loops will end up traveling a distance of about 2.2 miles with 320 feet of total elevation gain. Appealing to a variety of users, the Ballardini Ranch trail system is a popular one and the parking lot can fill up on weekends.

Dogs are permitted on leash. There are covered picnic benches and a vault toilet at the trailhead. However there is no water or shade anywhere along the trail.