Were in the midst of one other record-breaking summer season in Northern Nevada. What higher method to beat the warmth of triple-digit days than to flee to a cool mountain lake? Whereas the crowds head as much as Tahoe, discover some enjoyable, shade and solitude on the wild-feeling Stampede Reservoir, simply exterior of Truckee.
Following the indicators towards Boca Reservoir, youll take Exit 194 off Interstate 80 at Hirschdale Highway, and switch northward. To succeed in Stampede Reservoir, head north alongside the japanese shore of Boca, which is way smaller and sometimes a lot busier than Stampede. A slim paved street stretches about eight miles between the 2 reservoirs, following the Little Truckee River, which winds northward by way of coniferous forests.
As you get near Stampede Reservoir, youll see indicators for the ability plant and dam. The street provides choices round this level: Proceed straight northward to entry the japanese portion and northeastern fingers of the lake; or flip left, and head west alongside the dam for some south-shore entry factors and extra facilities.
Alternatively, you may attain the western facet of Stampede by following Freeway 89 north out of Truckee and turning eastward at Sagehen Summit. Not all roads are paved, nevertheless, and many of the filth roads will not be maintained, so that youll must take a automobile with greater clearance when you go this manner. Nevertheless you get to Stampede, most of the lake entry factors are through filth tracks. You may at all times park at a pull-out and stroll all the way down to the seaside in case your automobile has low clearanceor if the tracks are damp after a rain storm.
After the large winter we had, Stampede Reservoir is kind of full. This limits the quantity of seaside area obtainable across the lake, but additionally supplies hundreds of thousands of gallons of extra water for recreation. Situated at roughly 6,000 ft in elevation, this alpine physique of water is way hotter than Tahoe, making it a pleasing swimming spot. Nevertheless, the lake has no lifeguards or staffed security stations, so take applicable security precautions.
The Captain Roberts Boat Ramp supplies entry for clear motorized watercraft to enter the reservoir. Different dirt-road entry factors enable loads of alternatives for human-powered craft to get out on the water as nicely. Mornings and evenings are sometimes calm sufficient for kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing. Afternoons will be windy, even on seemingly calm days, so test the climate earlier than heading up together with your boats.
There are restricted facilities round Stampede; dont anticipate to have the ability to get gasoline or a snack. Campgrounds alongside the south shore are nice for a weekend getaway, with potable water and vault bathrooms to help campsites hidden among the many Jeffrey and ponderosa pines alongside the shore. Remember to make a reservation at recreation.gov earlier than heading out, although, as area is restricted, and dispersed tenting within the space is strictly prohibited.
Mountain climbing trails meander by way of the bushes. Fishing in Stampede Reservoir is allowed year-round with a California fishing license. You might discover kokanee salmon in addition to brown, brook, rainbow and lake trout swimming within the waters. The close by Truckee River Wildlife Space additionally supplies seasonal alternatives for searching, with the suitable permits.
With round 25 miles of shoreline, Stampede Reservoir has loads of area to discover and keep cool within the shade of the towering pines and mild waves of alpine waters. Although its just a bit greater than 30 miles from Reno, Stampede Reservoir seems like a distinct worldproviding a slice of wilderness and a welcome respite from the warmth of the summer season.
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Originally posted 2023-08-10 22:06:00.