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Chimney Beach Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 119 Google reviews · Running trail in Carson City, Nevada · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Chimney Beach Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Chimney Beach Trailhead
“Another beautiful location in lake tahoe to check out during the day and a great place to catch the sunset.”
This is a beautiful beach area, but getting down to it was a little confusing and difficult. Do not wear flip flops on this trail. You need tennis shoes or hiking boots. Once you are there it is beautiful. There are typically a lot of people here as well. Recommend it, but be prepared for the hike down and back up.
The parking lot is across the road from the trailhead. The trail is a little steep at first, but it's not too bad; a few boulders to navigate over. It's a short trail with a beautiful beach!
This is a great stop to take in the views, and gives trail access to Chimney Beach. Parking is limited here, but it is free. The trail down to the beach is well developed, but steep, rocky, and slippery in places. Be prepared for a difficult hike both ways. Wear good shoes and take plenty of water.
We ended up at Chimney Beach Trailhead while looking for a beach in the area. Unbeknownst to us, and something to definitely keep in mind is that this is definitely a moderately difficult hike/trail - with an absolutely stunning beach to enjoy at the bottom of it.
Trail conditions & character
“We took the lower route to Secret Cove and Whale Beach, it was one of the most rewarding hikes at Lake Tahoe with many views of the lake.”
“I couldn’t find a trailhead sign on the roadside, and the path is a bit hard to notice from the road.”
“The trail is a little steep at first, but it's not too bad; a few boulders to navigate over.”
“I usually hike the Marlette and Chimney Beach trail accessible off highway 28.”
Plan your run at Chimney Beach Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Carson City
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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Ash Canyon Creek Trailhead
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Long Ranch Park
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