Book excerpt: Reno: A Base Camp for All Seasons Ideally positioned between the spectacular peaks and lakes of California's Sierra Nevadas and the vast and varied Great Basin of Nevada, Reno is an unparalleled hub for exploring the natural beauty and grandeur this region offers. The area's four-season climate combined with year-round sun guarantees that every day can be a great day to go exploring. Discover the dramatic scenery and diverse terrain of ten distinct geographical regions with 101 hikes--all within no more than an hour's drive from downtown Reno. Enjoy a trail through snowbanks or amble along a sandy path. Traverse sage-covered hillsides or walk through meadows of wildflowers. Stroll along peaceful creeks or ascend to craggy cliffs and mountaintops. With Christopher and Elizabeth Barile as your guides and Reno as your base camp, you'll find your perfect adventure, whether you have a few hours to spend or time for an all-day trek. History, geology, flora, and fauna for each hike Best hikes for each season, and where to enjoy spring wildflowers, fall foliage, and more Ratings for trail conditions, difficulty, and suitability for children Detailed driving directions to trailheads and info about parking Regional maps showing all trailheads in each chapter; route and elevation map for each hike Best hikes for kids, teens, and adults with limited ability Elevation gains, mileage, average hiking times, and even calculated caloric burn! Hikes by interest: waterfalls, rock scrambling, bird watching, petroglyphs, wild horses, and many more How to prepare & what to take 101 great hikes to choose from!