Ash to Kings Trail - Image 1
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Ash to Kings Trail

4.6
·45 reviews·Carson City, United States

A moderate 5-mile out-and-back trail offering vibrant creek views in spring and panoramic summit vistas, ideal for hikers and dog owners.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Vibrant green & flowing creek

CrowdLow
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Ash to Kings Trail - Image 1

Ash to Kings Trail

Best Time

Spring mornings

Vibrant green & flowing creek

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A moderate 5-mile out-and-back trail offering vibrant creek views in spring and panoramic summit vistas, ideal for hikers and dog owners.

4.6
(45 reviews)

"Nice trail that is about 5 miles give or take. It's an in and out trail. I find it to be moderate difficulty."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Avoid the Car Trail!

Stick to the designated hiking path near the creek for the best adventure. The car trail can be tricky!

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Good hiking boots are essential, especially when there's lingering snow or uneven terrain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ash Canyon Creek

Ash Canyon Creek

Lower section of the trail

A picturesque creek flowing through a vibrant green canyon, especially stunning in spring.

Panoramic Summit Views

Panoramic Summit Views

Upper section of the trail

Reach the top for breathtaking open spaces and sweeping vistas, offering peace and quiet.

Wildlife Sightings

Wildlife Sightings

Throughout the trail

Keep an eye out for local wildlife during your hike; sightings add to the natural beauty of the experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Access & Seasonality

The Ash to Kings Trail's accessibility varies by season. While open for hiking year-round, vehicle access is typically restricted during winter months. Check local conditions before heading out, especially if planning an OHV trip.

Trail Difficulty & Preparation

This trail is generally considered moderate, with steady inclines and steeper sections towards the summit. Good hiking boots are recommended, and layering clothing is advised due to changing temperatures and open terrain.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Vibrant green & flowing creek
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Vehicle access opens up
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall
Why
Pleasant temperatures
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Ash canyon creek OHV trail

🚗 Avoid the Car Trail!

Stick to the designated hiking path near the creek for the best adventure. The car trail can be tricky! Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Good hiking boots are essential, especially when there's lingering snow or uneven terrain. Reddit

reddit.com

Just moved to Carson City

reddit.com

Just started MTB two weeks ago, how am I looking?

🧥 Layer Up Wisely

Temperatures can fluctuate. Bring layers to adjust for warmth or coolness as you hike. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

This trail is a great spot to bring your dog, especially for enjoying the creek. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Avoid the Car Trail!

Stick to the designated hiking path near the creek for the best adventure. The car trail can be tricky! Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Good hiking boots are essential, especially when there's lingering snow or uneven terrain. Reddit

🧥 Layer Up Wisely

Temperatures can fluctuate. Bring layers to adjust for warmth or coolness as you hike. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

This trail is a great spot to bring your dog, especially for enjoying the creek. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(45 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Ash to Kings Trail for its beautiful scenery, especially the vibrant Ash Canyon Creek in spring, and the rewarding summit views. It's noted as a moderate, enjoyable hike suitable for dogs, though some find the final ascent steep. Vehicle access is seasonal, making it primarily a hiking destination for much of the year.

"Beautiful our and back run for our little jeep group. Views, wildlife, peace and quiet."

Rebecca Colley

"Nice trail that is about 5 miles give or take. It's an in and out trail. I find it to be moderate difficulty. It's basically uphill going in and downhill coming out. The inclines and declines are pretty steady so it isn't all at once until towards the "end". What I mean is to get to the top before you turn around. The last .5 miles does get pretty steep to get to the top and is steep coming down. But other than that, the ups and downs are not super crazy. There are still parts that have some snow but nothing some good hiking boots can't handle. A lot of open space so not a lot of tree covering. I believe that motor vehicles are allowed in the summer time but is closed off during the winter. Make sure to layer so that you can remove clothing when you get hot or add clothing when you get chilly. I always air on the side of caution. Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Happy trails!"

Carmen Cheung

"Words of advice, don't take the car trial 🤣. To your left towards the bottom of the river is the real trail. Lesson learned, enjoy the adventure and most of all have fun and be safe!"

freddy mendoza

What People Like

Beautiful creek scenery
Rewarding summit views
Dog-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Steep final ascent
Seasonal vehicle access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ash to Kings Trail is accessible via Ash Canyon. While specific directions can vary, it's often reached by heading up Ash Canyon Road. For OHV access, be aware of seasonal closures. Reddit

Yes, the Ash Canyon Creek Trail is a shorter, easier trail that connects to the Ash to Kings Canyon Trail, following the creek upstream. Reddit

It's strongly advised not to take a regular car on what's referred to as the 'car trail' near the bottom. The main hiking trail is the recommended route for a better experience. Reddit

For hiking, focus on the path that follows Ash Canyon Creek. This offers a more scenic and manageable route compared to the vehicle-specific tracks. Reddit

OHV access is typically available during spring and summer months, but the gate where the hiking trail begins to the creek is often closed in winter. Always check local advisories for current access. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, hiking the Ash to Kings Trail does not require a specific permit. However, if you plan on using OHVs, regulations may apply, so it's best to check with local land management agencies. Reddit

There are typically no entrance fees for hiking the Ash to Kings Trail. If you are using it for OHV recreation, there might be associated fees or permits depending on the area. Reddit

The trail is generally open year-round for hiking. Vehicle access, particularly for OHVs, is usually restricted during winter months and opens up in spring/summer. Reddit

Hiking is possible in winter, but be prepared for snow and potentially icy conditions. Vehicle access is typically closed during this time. Reddit

Local land management websites or ranger stations are the best sources for information on trail closures, especially for OHV access during different seasons. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Ash to Kings Trail is considered moderate. It features steady uphill climbs on the way in and downhill on the way out, with the last half-mile becoming quite steep. Reddit

The trail is approximately 5 miles round trip, making it a manageable hike for most. Reddit

You'll experience open spaces with limited tree cover, offering great views. The lower section features the scenic Ash Canyon Creek, especially vibrant in spring. Reddit

Yes, the Ash to Kings Trail is dog-friendly and a popular spot for owners to bring their pets, particularly to enjoy the creek area. Reddit

Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended due to potential snow and uneven terrain. Layering clothing is also advised to adapt to changing temperatures. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant green landscapes and flowing Ash Canyon Creek in spring. The summit offers panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. Wildlife sightings can also make for unique shots. Reddit

Morning light can be beautiful for the creek and canyon scenes, while late afternoon might offer softer light for the summit vistas. Consider the season for the best colors. Reddit

The area around Ash Canyon Creek provides lovely shots, especially when the water is flowing and the vegetation is lush. The summit offers expansive views, so any point at the top can be a good vantage. Reddit

A versatile lens for landscapes and potential wildlife is useful. A wide-angle lens can capture the open vistas, while a telephoto might be good for distant wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for low-light shots. Reddit

Drone usage regulations vary by location. It's crucial to check with local authorities or land management agencies regarding drone operation rules in this area before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ash to Kings Trail can be a rewarding experience for families, though its moderate difficulty means it's best suited for families with children who are accustomed to hiking. The Ash Canyon Creek section offers a more gentle introduction, with the sound of flowing water and lush greenery providing an engaging environment. Reddit

Parents should be mindful of the steeper sections towards the summit and ensure children have appropriate footwear. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is essential, as the trail is largely open with limited shade. The approximately 5-mile round trip is manageable for a day hike, and the opportunity to see wildlife can add an extra element of excitement for younger hikers. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

The Ash to Kings Trail is a fantastic destination for dog owners, frequently mentioned as a dog-friendly spot. Your canine companions will likely enjoy the open spaces and the chance to explore along the creek. Reddit

Remember to keep your dog on a leash as per local regulations and to pack out all waste. The trail's moderate terrain is generally suitable for most dogs, but be aware of the steeper sections towards the end and ensure your pet has adequate water, especially on warmer days. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Ash to Kings Trail

The Ash to Kings Trail offers a moderate challenge, primarily characterized by a steady uphill trek on the way in and a downhill return. The final half-mile to the summit presents a steeper incline, demanding a bit more effort but rewarding hikers with expansive views. Many visitors note that the trail is largely open with minimal tree cover, making it susceptible to sun exposure and wind. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, as parts of the trail can retain snow even into warmer months. Reddit

Trail Etiquette is important here. While the trail is generally well-maintained, respecting the natural environment and other users ensures a pleasant experience for everyone. If you're planning an OHV trip, be aware that vehicle access is typically restricted during winter, with gates closed. This means that for much of the year, the trail is primarily a hiking destination. Reddit

Seasonal Highlights make this trail a year-round option with different appeals. Spring is particularly recommended for its vibrant green landscapes and the lively flow of Ash Canyon Creek. Summer allows for vehicle access, attracting OHV enthusiasts, while fall offers pleasant hiking temperatures and beautiful scenery. Reddit

Best Practices for Visiting

When planning your visit to the Ash to Kings Trail, preparation is key. Given the trail's moderate difficulty and potential for changing weather, sturdy hiking boots are a must. Many reviewers emphasize the importance of layering clothing to adapt to temperature fluctuations throughout the hike. Reddit

For those considering an OHV adventure, it's vital to check seasonal access restrictions. The gates are often closed in winter, limiting vehicle use. This means that for many visitors, the trail is best enjoyed on foot, especially during colder months. Reddit

Bringing your dog is a popular option, as the trail is known to be dog-friendly. The creek area, in particular, is a favorite spot for canine companions. Remember to always follow leash laws and pack out any waste to keep the trail clean. Reddit

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