Washoe Lake State Park hosting celebration and hikes in May

Washoe Lake State Park is offering a variety of events and hikes in May, including a full moon hike, a celebration of Washoe Valley, and a moderate hike through the sand dunes.

The full moon hike will be from 8 to 10 p.m. Sunday, May 3. The moderate two-mile hike is a round-trip trek through sand. Attendees are asked to meet at the north boat ramp equestrian area, which is accessed after passing the park’s main entrance by turning left onto Douglas Avenue, right onto Lakeshore Drive, then left to the north entrance.

Washoe Valley businesses and residents will be on hand at a celebration of Washoe Valley, sponsored by the Washoe Valley Alliance, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 16, at the group use area. To get there, turn left after passing the fee booth, then go to the first two parking lots on the right. The event is free, and park entrance fees will be waived. Food will be available for purchase.

A moderate 2.5-mile round-trip hike in the sand will be from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, May 17. To participate, meet at the equestrian parking lot, near the pavilion; turn right after passing the fee booth, then travel passed the campground to the gravel parking lot. Hikers can bring leashed dogs.

Each event offers information about the natural and cultural history of the park and surrounding areas. All events are open to the public and free of charge; however, there is a park entrance fee of $7 per vehicle. Nevada residents receive a $2 discount. Cash or checks are accepted.

Program schedules are subject to change due to weather and staffing. When going on any hike, bring plenty of water and wear appropriate shoes.

Washoe State Park is located at 4855 Eastlake Blvd., accessed by taking the Eastlake Boulevard exit from I-580. For more information, contact Kim Zuch at 775-687-4319 or washoelake@hdiss.net.