Greycliff's Chronicles: Moshuhs's adventures: Washoe Lake

It's been too long since Moshue had an adventure. Never fear, my furry guy finally made it out of our home neighborhood. Last week we drove to Washoe Valley, and out to Washoe Lake. The access is from State Route (Highway) 395, 18 miles south of Reno and 5 miles north of Carson City. We'd wanted to go sooner, but the recent fire and work schedule change made it difficult.

Washoe Lake was easy to find and has an asphalt parking lot (on the Washoe City side). On the way to the day use area, I passed a gravel parking lot. This lot was the parking area for the persons trailing their horse trailers. There are regular bathrooms and a couple of picnic tables. I saw one boat launch ramp.

Dogs are welcome, but they must be leashed. Moshuh and I had a great time. Mother Nature cooperated and gave us a picture perfect day with no clouds in the sky and upper 50's. We wandered the shoreline and trails at a casual pace. Mo sniffed and peed to his heart's content. Across the lake, I could see a thin trail of smoke from a controlled burn. Snow topped the mountains making for a beautiful picture opportunity.

A couple had drove in ahead of us with their horses, making me envious and a man was there with his dog. Once everyone unlocked, we all went our separate ways, none of taking the same trails. I spotted a coule of raptors but no big game.

Mo did get brave, splashing in a small off-shoot of a spring. He wouldn't stay in long enough for me to get a photograph. This is a park we will go back to again.

Washoe Lake is part of the Nevada State Parks system. It emcompasses 8,053 acres, divided in to two lakes. The lakes are part of the Scripps wetlands area, which are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the occasional bear (from the local mountains, deer, eagles, and hawks. The water provides a resting area for migratory birds. Waterfowl hunting is allowed during certain parts of the year, so be sure to check before you go if the hunting is in season.

These are the Park rules according the the State Park website:

Please join the majority of our visitors who maintain this area and preserve the fragile desert environment by observing these rules:

Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings, barbecues or approved portable stoves. Firewood is available in the campground. Wood collecting is prohibited.
Boating laws regulations are enforced by Park Rangers and the Nevada Division of Wildlife. Copies of the Nevada Boat Act Handbook are available from park staff.
The collection of plants, trees, animals, fossils, natural objects and prehistoric and historic artifacts is prohibited. Please do not disturb or remove them.
Motorized vehicles are permitted only on designated roadways and parking areas.
Pets are permitted but must remain on a leash in developed areas of the park.

Visitors are responsible for knowing the park rules and regulations. Detailed copies are posted throughout the park and may be obtained at the park offices and entrance stations.

LEAVE NO TRACE

The Nevada Division of State Parks promotes Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics: