Crystal Peak - Reno, NV

Crystal Peak, CA near Reno, NV - 1

Crystal Peak, or Crystal Mine is actually located in California.  This was an excellent day trip for our family.  It allowed the kids to collect quartz crystals, and to glimpse beautiful vistas looking north towards Cold Springs.

How Did We Get To Crystal Peak? - We drove first on N Virginia Street passed the Bordertown Casino (it becomes Long Valley Rd).  Quickly, the road becomes an unpaved road.  We drove our Honda Pilot which only has FWD and did fine the whole trip.  However, if there has been snow or rain, the trip could be difficult.  To get to Crystal Peak, stay on Long Valley Road into Dog Valley (you will cross a cattle gate).  The road can be windy and narrow, but it is not too steep.  For small cars, there are several rocky patches that may prove difficult.  We drove slowly and so the trip took us about 45 minutes, but was well worth it.  Google seems to have it fairly close (see map below):




What Did We Do on Crystal Peak? - There is a small sign for Crystal Mine specifying that each party is limited to one (1) bucket of crystals totaling no more than five (5) gallons.  We should have brought a bucket!  The kids so loved picking up crystals that were literally everywhere.  We hiked up hills and around the area finding many different quartz crystals, some with beautiful shades of green in them.  In all, we stayed for about an hour and a half.  Our three children loved it: Eliaya (7), Elora (5), and Ezra (4).  Ezra did find some of the paths a bit steep, but was content to hunt crystals on the flatter areas.  If one gets easily carsick, taking some medication may be helpful.

What Recommendations Are There for Crystal Peak? - Bring a hat and sunscreen as much of the area has little shade.  Wear good hiking boots, and consider bringing a pair of gloves.  I cut my hand a bit trying to pry loose some of the crystals.  Bring a bag or bucket to collect treasures.  Also, bring a camera WITH a memory card.  Sadly we only have a small handful of pictures because I FORGOT the memory card.  I would also recommend a small jacket or vest.  The wind can be chilly even though we were on the peak from approximately 10:30a - 12:00p.

Crystal Peak, CA near Reno, NV - 2

Are There Facilities Nearby to Crystal Peak? - Not at all. This area is rather remote, so be sure to have water, snacks, etc.  It is wise to let someone know where and when you are going.  If you have a good walkee talkee, that would be helpful as there is little to no cell-service (at least not Verizon) on the peak.  However, once precautions are taken, this is an excellent family adventure.

How Much Does a Crystal Peak Adventure Cost? - Other than the cost of gas, this adventure is FREE.  Is that not the best four-letter-"F"-word?  There is no charge for collecting crystals.  While we were there, we interacted with a couple, but other than that we had the peak to ourselves.  Why pay more than $20 a person to pan crystals at a rock shop when you can find them yourself for free?  Below is a picture of some of our finds:

Quartz from Crystal Peak - 1

Quartz from Crystal Peak - 2

Quartz from Crystal Peak - 3

Where Can I Get That Stylish Vest? - I am sure this was your most pressing question.  I am sporting a vest from 32 Degrees, similar to the one available here (https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07VKFVQWB/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_LXERDb3VEFCCN).  I have really enjoyed this small, lightweight vest.  I snagged mine at Costco one fall for about $10.  It folds up small enough to put into a large pants pocket.