It’s an exciting time of year for nature-loving Nevadans. For the new few weeks, our state will undergo an incredible transformation as the fall foliage begins to make an appearance. The brilliant autumn shades turn already beautiful landscapes into breathtaking scenes that are bound to leave you in awe. Simply put, seeing the state’s autumn landscapes is a must! There’s no better way to see this year’s fall colors than by embarking on this 25-mile scenic drive. This short and sweet drive is the perfect way to see a LOT of fall colors in just one morning or afternoon, so be sure to hit the gas on this adventure before the colors disappear.
Stretching from Lake Tahoe to Reno, the Mt. Rose Scenic Drive is a 25-mile long highway that boasts some of the state’s most spectacular windshield views. There’s never a bad time to drive it, but fall may just be the best!
Famartin/Wikipedia
The scenic byway follows Nevada State Highway 31 for its entirety. During the stretch of highway known as the Mt. Rose Highway, you’ll make your way through an array of beautiful landscapes from the high desert to the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Davemeistermoab/Wikipedia
At just 25-miles long, the drive could easily take just 30-45 minutes. However, you may wish to stretch your time as you find yourself driving deeper into the beautiful backcountry surrounding Reno-Tahoe. This is the type of scenery that shouldn’t be rushed by.
Purple Bullet/Flickr
If you happen to be driving along the highway during peak fall foliage, you’ll find yourself treated to the extraordinary shades of fall color. The mountains are dotted with mesmerizing hues including gold, orange, and maroon.
Mirza Asad Baig/Flickr
Some of the most inspiring scenery can be found during the highway’s peak elevation: Mt. Rose Summit. At 8,900-feet above sea level, the views are amazing! They only seem to get better as the terrain changes during the highway’s descent into the Lake Tahoe Basin.
Davemeistermoab/Wikipedia
As mentioned, you’ll want to take as long as possible soaking up the incredible vistas! Don’t worry, there are plenty of pullouts located along the highway the closer you get to Incline Village.
Purple Bullet/Flickr
How long these colors last varies from year to year, but it’s well-worth the effort to get out here and see the colors for yourself. Embark on a beautiful fall adventure and hop onto the Mt. Rose Highway soon.
Allie Caulfield/Flickr
What do you think? Will you be setting off on this drive anytime soon? Check out even more great autumn destinations with our list of 11 Places To See Gorgeous Fall Foliage In Nevada.
Famartin/Wikipedia
Davemeistermoab/Wikipedia
Purple Bullet/Flickr
Mirza Asad Baig/Flickr
Allie Caulfield/Flickr
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Address: Mount Rose Summit, Mt Rose Summit, Nevada 89704, USA
