Part of the beauty of living in Carson City is the delight in the presence of all four seasons. With an average annual snowfall of just a tad over 22” and the average high summer temperature at a comfortable 89 degrees F, it’s easy to see how residents find activities to occupy every month of the year. And with an abundance of luxurious Carson City Nevada homes for sale, it’s no wonder outdoor lovers gravitate to this part of the country, regardless of the time of year.
Activities for the Spring and Summer
- Carson Canyon Railbike Tours. This attraction, which opened in the spring of this year, offers guests the opportunity to pedal their way on a railbike along the incredibly beautiful scenery of the Carson River Canyon. Not to worry, this attraction is designed for people of all ages. Easy to pedal, the motorized rail bikes take most of the challenge but none of the fun out of the experience. The ultimate destination is the canyon floor, where visitors take a stretch break, grab a free snack and water, and take this golden opportunity to enjoy the view and take pictures.
- Ride Walk with the High Sierra Pack Goats. If you’re looking for a fun and inventive way to explore the Sierra Nevadas, this excursion provides the perfect opportunity. You’ll join a handful of others and a few goats that are prepared to carry anything you need them to, including your water and your jacket, while you concentrate on the trail and the view. The trip is about an hour and a half long and by the end, you’ll have a few more human and furry friends!
- Nevada State Railroad Museum. Carson City is home to one of the most fascinating of all specialty museums. Train enthusiasts will love the enormous collection of artifacts and photos memorializing Nevada’s vast railroad history. Some of the highlights include five steam locomotives and 19th-century rail equipment. The museum hosts all types of events including Steam Train Rides, the Ironhorse Rail Camp, and Edwards Car Rides.
- Washoe Lake State Park. One of the most popular places for warm weather activities, Washoe Lake State Park features horseback riding trails, picnic areas, camping, water sports, and hiking trails. Capture views of a huge range of waterfowl and birds, while fisherman can try their luck at catching Sacramento Perch, white bass, catfish, and bullhead.
Fall Activities
Visitors and residents are treated to a spectacular fall season in Carson City. The change of the guard from summer to winter is done so in style here, with numerous locations to view the changing foliage along with exciting events hosted by the city.
- Oktoberfest. In early October, Carson City holds its Oktoberfest complete with games and prizes, vendors, a craft show, and of course, a well-stocked Bavarian Beer Garden.
- Nevada Day Parade. Late October marks the anniversary of Nevada being inducted into the United States. Residents celebrate this by gathering annually to host a parade, rock drilling contest, tours, a chili cook-off, and more.
- Carson City Ghost Walk. Carson City is proud of its colorful history. Participating in the Carson City Ghost Walk will give you the chance to come face to face-with it! Madame Curry (a well-known Carson City ghost expert) guides you through the “haunted” and historic homes.
Outdoor Winter Activities
Surrounded by mountains and just enough fluffy precipitation for optimal outdoor winter activities, Carson City beckons those near and far to take part in a variety of experiences. As Lake Tahoe is so close by, it provides the perfect backdrop to embrace the chill and seize the day!
- Skiing. Nearby Lake Tahoe (a mere 30-minute or so drive) is home to many of the world’s most beloved ski resorts. Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe and Heavenly Mountain feature the finest in downhill and cross-country skiing.
- Snowshoeing. Plenty of trails offer hikers the opportunity to truly take in the crisp winter vistas. Snow-sprinkled pines, blankets of white, and endless blue sky await beginner and advanced snowshoers who are up for the challenge.
- Carson Hot Springs. There might be nothing more satisfying than spending a few hours on the slopes and then sinking those icy extremities into some of the purest water in all the world at the Carson Hot Springs Resort. The roughly 99-degree water melts cares and aches away.
In some areas of the country, outdoor activities are difficult due to weather extremes. Carson City is blessed with moderate seasons, temperatures, and precipitation, making it one of the best destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. Set against a backdrop of a friendly community setting, Carson City truly has appeal for everyone.